The Honda Jazz line-up in New Zealand welcomes back the popular RS variant as part of a mid-cycle shake up for the car. It’s a hybrid this time, utilising the e:HEV powertrain that was introduced with the Luxe model a couple of years back.
Yes, well some models do. There’s a new line-up with the Life dropped (well, once current stocks are gone that is), and Crosstar the new entry point, which now starts at $30,700, (or $31,500 in must have two tone paint option). The RS meanwhile comes in at $36,700. The Luxe Sport, as it’s now known, is $37,000 (a rise of $2000 since it was introduced). The RS and Luxe get a $3930 rebate on account of their 3.8L/100km, 91g/km emission figures, while the Crosstar retains its ‘conventional’ 1.5-litre four, and is fee neutral.
They say the Jazz RS incorporates Type R DNA, and we guess you could draw your long bow and see it has R inspired styling. This includes an aero-honed design on the front end complete with air ducts in the front bumper to smooth the airflow and a honeycomb black grille. Also making the grade are RS-specific side sills, rear bumper and a discreet spoiler.
Inside there’s a sportier theme with yellow stitching on the wheel and seats, the latter featuring a perforated suede like trim.
Along with 16-inch alloys, the RS has its own suspension tune with new dampers, roll bars, spring rates (reduced in the front, stiffer in the rear) and RS-specific bushings.
Behind the wheel you’ll find the new ‘deceleration selectors’ that look like paddle shifters, but because the e:HEV models have a direct drive transmission (so no gears then), these alter the level of brake regeneration. Being Type R inspired, there’s also a Sport driving mode.
The e:HEV powertrain has been beefed-up, the drive motor now outputting 90kW and 253Nm, while the engine (which is chiefly used as a generator for the battery) has 78kW and 127 Nm. It can also drive the vehicle at higher speeds (dubbed direct-drive in e:HEV lingo) to improve the economy. But primarily, the e:HEV uses the electric motor to get you around.
As Honda doesn’t sell the Jazz in Australia, there is still no ANCAP safety rating for this popular model. But the RS comes with the full Honda Sensing Suite, including AEB, lane keeping, adaptive cruise and auto high beams. It does have a five-star Vehicle Safety Risk Rating, which is why it is eligible for the rebate.
We had a brief taster of the RS, the new ‘deceleration selectors’ handy when it comes to dialling in your desired level of regen, although it could be stronger still on its maximum setting. It’s a deceiving drive the e:HEV Jazz as the engine performs mock up-shifts when you accelerate, even though it has no transmission in the classical sense. Best not to think about it, and enjoy what is a smooth little powertrain. The RS has a firmer ride than we remember the Luxe having, but also turns more diligently, with more resistance to cornering forces
Given its popularity previously, the RS should help Honda move 2000 Jazz models this year as it looks to claim the number one spot amongst private buyers in this small car space.
Honda is also getting two crucial new models with the ZR-V e:HEV arriving along in May while late in the year, the all new CR-V arrives, which will also have an e:HEV powertrain.
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