It’s hardly surprising they account for most new passenger vehicles now sold here. A good example is Honda’s smallest model, the Jazz five-door hatch, where three of the four strong models are hybrids. The outlier is the petrol-engine Cross Star priced at $30,700, which is undeniably good value for money.
Prices for the latest Jazz span a wide range, starting with the pseudo-SUV-looking Cross Star then stretching all the way to $42,000 for the body-kitted Mugen. Parked between these two versions is the $36,700 RS supplied for this road test, and the $38,000 Luxe Sport.
The motor is nippy and purposeful off the line from standing starts, although fades over hilly terrain. The Jazz really hums along effortlessly in town motoring.
The Jazz uses an electronically controlled CVT (continuously variable transmission) with a single fixed-gear. All the gear-changing basics are well executed and contributed to the test vehicle’s thrifty fuel economy and sprightly performance, which shines rather than dazzles in urban driving.
An exceptionally roomy cabin, that made the earlier version of this model such a hit, is further enhanced through the clever packaging of the hybrid drivetrain components into the chassis and engine bay. This enables the Jazz to retain an enhanced version of its clever and super versatile rear seats. They "fold-flat" or "flip-up" depending on the amount of cargo space you need.
Holding centre stage on the infotainment technology front is a 9" infotainment system paired with a 7" driver’s display. The new LCD touchscreen interface features familiar smartphone-style usability, with swipe controls to browse recently used applications and media lists. A wider, higher-definition camera delivers cleaner and clearer imagery of the vehicle surroundings, reducing the risk of reversing or parking bumps and bruises to the vehicle.
The RS suspension tune feels sharper and more nimble than its siblings. It’s nicely balanced, and responds quickly to manage sudden changes in the road surface. Ride quality is supple and soothing at low speeds in around-town driving, and so it should because this is the driving environment it was designed for.
More direct steering enhances the drivability of the RS, bringing some welcome additional fun factor that may attract younger buyers into the Jazz fold.
