Singing an all new tune: Honda launches all new Jazz at 2nd PIMS

Ever since Honda introduced the Jazz, its versatile compact hatch, the car has been making waves due to its combination of technology, utility and economy. At the recently concluded 2nd Philippine International Motorshow (PIMS), Honda formalized the entry of the much-awaited 2nd generation variant of the Jazz. And the Philippine car buying market couldn’t be happier.

Widely acclaimed for its dynamic styling, spacious interiors, versatile utility and remarkable fuel economy, the 2nd generation Honda Jazz debuted with more advanced and vibrant features, in turn bringing out added fun and excitement to the driving experience. Let’s focus first on the car’s new styling, shall we?

Featuring a unique forward-leaning cabin form styling that highlights sharper lines, a wider stance and improved aerodynamics, the all-new Jazz features a wheelbase that is 50mm longer and a rear wheel tread that is 30mm wider than its predecessor’s. The result is a more stable and at the same time more spacious car that pushes the envelope where versatility is concerned. With ample room for five people, it still allows for up to 384 liters of cargo space. And, thanks to its ULTRA (an acronym for Utility, Long and Tall modes) seats, the Jazz can adjust its luggage capacity in several ways. The interior ergonomics are further accentuated by a dashboard that provides the optimal driving position and invites minimal eye movement within the cabin – making for a more stress free drive.

Available in two engine variants, the all-new Jazz promises best in class maximum power output numbers. The 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine churns out 100ps @ 6,000rpm even as its more powerful 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine variant produces 120ps@ 6,600rpm. The 1.3-liter variant will come in both manual and automatic transmission models while the 1.5-liter variant will be available as an automatic with both Drive and Sport modes highlighted by paddle shifters. Needless to say, all this technology also helps in delivering better fuel economy numbers as the car optimizes valve overlap times, depending on one’s driving practices.

Despite its deceptively diminutive size, the all-new Honda Jazz does not scrimp on safety features. The car comes with Dual SRS airbags, a G-CON body structure and an Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist in all of its variants. Also, its brake system carries 4-wheel disc brakes for increased braking efficiency.

Understandably, the people behind the car were very optimistic and proud during the public unveiling. “Since its inception, the Honda Jazz has revolutionized the small car concept and has won the hearts of many customers in over 115 countries around the globe for its astounding fuel economy, styling and spaciousness. With the 2nd generation’s refreshing design, the Honda Jazz is set to bring more fun in every drive, especially in the face of spiraling fuel costs,” said Hiroshi Shimizu, President and General Manager of Honda Cars Philippines, Inc.

Ever since the original variant’s debut in 2001, overwhelming reception on the Honda Jazz has led to the attainment of its cumulative global sales of over 2.5 million units. The Honda Jazz has since captured its fair share of accolades along the way. Included in its prestigious streaks of accolades is the back-to-back over-all Japan Car of the Year award for both 1st and 2nd generation models, covering years 2001-2002 and 2007-2008. Inheriting the high-level of performance of its predecessor, the all-new Jazz continues to reap special recognitions which even now include the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame Association (JAHFA) Car of the Year Award, the Automotive Researchers and Journalists Conference of Japan (RJC) Car of the Year and the CCC Car of the Year Eco Award.

Perhaps the best part of all this buzz on the all-new Honda Jazz is its still very reasonable pricing. Introductory prices are as follows: 1.3-liter S MT P707,000; 1.3-liter S AT P747,000 and 1.5-liter V AT P797,000. Word from our sources at Honda Cars Philippines is that the all new Honda Jazz already has its fair share of inquiries at local dealerships. Actual unit deliveries, however, won’t be made until towards the end of September. In reality, we see it as a minor set back in the actual overall effect this car is set to make in the market. If the response to the 1st generation Jazz is any indication of how this new variant will perform both in the sales charts and out on the streets, then we’d wager we’ll be seeing quite a lot of them in the years to come. After all, with rising fuel prices, we won’t be surprised if everyone begins to sing new tunes – and shifts into performance cars that offer better fuel economy.