We drove the new Jazz for a comically brief driving experience on the West Short Circuit of the Twin Ring Motegi circuit in Japan. The car is not expected in India before end-2014 or more likely 2015 but like the Jazz, known as Fit in many markets including here in Japan, it remains a deeply impressively hatchback When Honda originally brought the Jazz to India, it didn’t do well. The car may have been appreciated for the interior versatility and space, looks and driving feel but the initial launch price was not something the Indian buying public could stand.
But even back then, the Jazz was always rated as among the best hatches in India. And now we have an all-new car to drive today. Around the corners, as before, the Jazz felt light on its feet and happy to change direction fast. There is some body roll but then again it’s a city slicker not a race refugee.
The Jazz began its career in 2001 and has sold over 2 million units in Japan alone. It is manufactured today in 10 places and is old in 217 counties. India is, unfortunately, not one of those markets at the moment. While we would love for Honda to offer us the option of the more expensive 1.5-litre engine, what is more likely is that we will get a refreshed and retuned 1.2-litre engine thanks to the startling wisdom of the finance ministry when it comes to automotive engineering. Also expect a diesel, probably the 1.5 that’s headed to the new City and this time pricing that makes you want to own this great little hatchback.
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