All-new Honda Jazz: first photos

Honda Motor Co. has revealed that the all-new Fit/Jazz hatchback will be one of its most fuel-efficient cars ever, with the hybrid model capable of 36.4 km/liter in the Japan-standard efficiency test. The new Fit will go on sale in September in Japan.

Fit Hybrid will have a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that uses the Atkinson cycle (high expansion ratio cycle) engine, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The gearbox will have a built-in high-output electric motor, powered by a lithium-ion battery. The car will have an electric servo brake mechanism for better energy recapture during braking, and a fully-electric compressor to reduce engine load. Honda says it improves the vehicle’s fuel economy by more than 35% compared to the current Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system.

The transmissions witches among three driving modes: electric, engine drive mode, and hybrid—where both engine and motor contribute to propulsion. This willb e the highest fuel economy among all hybrids in Japan, with ” acceleration g-force more powerful than conventional models and rhythmic and linear acceleration feel.”

The current Jazz Hybrid has been available in Thailand since 2012. With Honda launching the CR-Z hybrid, we have high hopes that the next generation will make it to the Philippines as well.