Auto BHP

Honda has launched the new Honda Jazz in Malaysia and although the two engine options are gone, the single i-VTEC engined model comes in two different equipment levels - Grade S and Grade V priced at RM104,800 and RM109,800 respectively.

The difference between the S and V grades lie in the equipment levels that each variant offers. The V grade has larger wheels - 16 inches wrapped with 185/55R16 tyres compared to the S grade’s 175/65R15 tyres on 15 inch wheels. It also has different front and rear bumpers, a side sill garnish, a different grille, an exhaust pipe finisher, retractable door mirrors with turn indicators, leather steering wheel and gear knob, steering wheel audio and cruise control and most importantly the paddle shifts on the steering wheel.

The V grade has a black interior while the S grade has a black and blue interior. I am guessing most will go for the V grade at only RM5,000 more for all the extra equipment. Both the S and V range come with a vehicle information display system at the instrument panel which displays vital information about the car such as remaining range in km based on the fuel remaining in the fuel tank, and real time fuel consumption. These can help you manage your fuel consumption better.

The new L15A i-VTEC engine has been updated, now putting out 120 PS at 6,600rpm and 145Nm of torque at 4,800rpm. The 120 PS is a higher peak power compared to the previous 1.5 VTEC engine but it is also achieved at a much higher RPM which means you have to rev higher to get it - 6600rpm vs 5800rpm.

This new i-VTEC SOHC engine uses a stepped variable valve timing and lift system, varying timing and lift according to two different settings - one for low load operations, another “high cam”. Intake and exhaust valve count for each cylinder are now 2 each - 4 per cylinder which means this engine is a 16 valve unit as opposed to the previous engine’s 12 valve setup.