The all new 4th generation Honda Fit (known as Jazz in international markets) that was unveiled at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show in October has officially been launched in Japan. The new Fit/ Jazz goes on sales with 5 trims namely Basic, Home, Ness and range topping Luxe, while there is also a crossover inspired version called as Crosstar. There are 25 exterior color choices, 5 interior color options and total 20 different configurations available.
Two engine options are available– a 1.3 liter naturally aspirated petrol and a 1.5 liter e:HEV hybrid. The L13B 1.3-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine produces 98 hp and 118 Nm) of torque and comes paired to a CVT gearbox as standard with an optional 4WD. Its fuel economy is rated at 24.2 km per liter (JC08 test cycles).
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Then there Honda’s new Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive hybrid system which replaces the previous Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive (i-DCD) setup. It utilizes a 1.5 liter engine that makes 98 hp and 127 Nm and is paired to two electric motors, one acts as a generator to charge the lithium-ion battery, while another motor called propulsion motors does most of the heavy lifting of driving the wheels, making 109 hp and 253 Nm.
Unlike other hybrid cars, the petrol engine functions as a range extender and is linked directly to the wheels only at higher speeds, via a single-speed transmission and a lock-up clutch. The electric propulsion motor can also drive the wheels on its own, using power stored in the battery.
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Honda says this setup provides a smoother transfer of torque and a linear feel during acceleration, whilst also being more compact and refined compared to the planetary gear sets found in other hybrids. It helps achieved the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 9.4 seconds before reaching a top speed of 175 km/h. Fuel economy is rated at 38.6 km per liter (JC08 test cycle) whereas 4WD is also available as an option.
According to Honda, the new Fit/ Jazz has been developed with more “emotional value” than numerical absolutes, with comfort and engagement taking precedence. With this generation Honda has left the sharp angular styling and instead adapted a more sedate and simpler design language.
The 2020 Fit/ Jazz will also come as standard with Honda Sensing driver assistance suite, which include:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- False Start Prevention
- False Backward Start Prevention
- Short-distance Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering System
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Lead Car Departure Notification System
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Auto High Beam Headlights
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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