Honda to launch hybrid Jazz

Honda will launch a hybrid version of its popular Jazz at the Paris Motor Show in October, bringing lower emissions and improved fuel economy to the practical small hatchback. It will go on sale in the UK in early 2011 and will feature the same engine as the Insight hybrid - a 1.3-litre i-VTEC combined with a CVT gearbox.

Between the two is an electric motor, creating a parallel hybrid system. The hybrid Jazz - like the Insight and Civic Hybrid models - will be capable of running on the electric motor alone under some medium and low speed conditions. Much of the Jazz's practicality is derived from its height, but despite being taller than the current Honda Insight, the hybrid version of Jazz manages to maintain fuel consumption and CO2 emissions on comparable levels.

The cleaner Jazz can be distinguished from the current range by revised headlights with a blue surround, clear rear lights, a new grille, restyled bumpers and a chrome tailgate trim. The new hybrid will also be available in a range of existing colours plus a bespoke Lime Green metallic.

Inside, the cabin is also given a fresh look, with a darker coloured dashboard, which contrasts with the blue lighting of the dials and dashboard instruments. The new hybrid is also available with leather trim, the first time this has been available on a Jazz model in Europe. Fuel economy and emissions will be released at the Paris Motor Show.

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