France: Honda Jazz Hybrid to debut at Paris show

The hybrid version of Honda’s Jazz model will make its global debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in September. The company notes that this new variant will mark the first time a parallel hybrid vehicle has been available in the B-segment. Sales in Europe will begin in early 2011; prices and full specifications will be announced closer to launch.

The new Jazz can operate in all-electric mode in medium- and low-speed conditions and shares an IMA hybrid motor and control system with the Insight and CR-Z hybrids. It also features the Insight hybrid’s 1.3-litre i-VTEC engine mated to a CVT gearbox with an electric motor positioned between the two to create a parallel hybrid system. Although Honda has not released fuel consumption figures, it says that the Jazz hybrid has a comparable fuel economy and CO2 emission levels to the Insight.

The hybrid version offers a few new features differentiating it from the current Jazz range, such as revised headlights, clear rear lights, new front grille, restyled bumpers and a chrome tailgate garnish. It also offers leather trim – a first for the Jazz model in Europe.