The Honda Jazz has been a perennial favourite among motorists ever since its launch in 2002, thanks to its versatility and easy driving nature. And now, 12 years on, Honda has unveiled the third-generation version of its popular hatchback, which offers sportier styling and better performance.

The overall silhouette of the Jazz remains unchanged, but there are notable design differences, such as the redesigned front grille and rear lights. Two trim levels will be offered for the new car, being the base Jazz 1.3, and the Jazz RS, which comes with sportier trimmings such as an aerodynamic kit that incorporates side sills, a rear tailgate spoiler, rear bumper extensions, and unique 16-inch alloy wheel designs.

The interior remains as versatile as ever, with its centrally-mounted fuel tank and ULTRA seats designed to maximise functionality, and offers plenty of space for five occupants and their cargo. The Jazz’s tall height also means that the car can accommodate awkwardly-shaped items for extra flexibility.

Powering the new Jazz is a brand-new 1.3-litre i-VTEC petrol engine that produces 100bhp and 119Nm of torque, which is compatible with RON 92 octane fuel. The car comes with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) as standard, and there is a paddle shift system on the steering wheel to provide a 7-speed shift system.

The Jazz RS meanwhile gets a 1.5-litre i-VTEC with direct injection which churns out 130bhp and 155Nm of torque, and is also compatible with RON 92 octane fuel. Like the Jazz 1.3, the Jazz RS has a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with a paddle shift system, but significantly, for the first time, there is also the option of 6-speed manual transmission to appeal to the sportier driver.

Subject to LTA’s final approval, the new Honda Jazz is expected to offer excellent fuel economy in its class, with the 1.3-litre model returning a quoted fuel consumption figure of 5.1 litres per 100km. The Jazz RS meanwhile is expected to have an average fuel consumption figure of 5.3 litres per 100km for the CVT variant, and 5.7 litres per 100km for the manual. All three cars qualify for a $10,000 rebate off the Carbon Emissions-based Vehicle Scheme (CEVS), with respective CO2 outputs standing at 121g/km, 127g/km and 136g/km.

Standard features on the new Jazz include a 7-inch Advanced Touch Screen that provides a smartphone interface, blue-lit illumination, paddle shifters and steering wheel controls for the audio system. The Jazz RS also gets a keyless entry and engine push-start button, as well as LED headlamps and taillamps.

The Honda Jazz 1.3 is priced at $117,900, inclusive of COE, while the Jazz RS 1.5 retails for $121,900, including COE. Kah Motor is also offering a pre-launch promo where buyers can enjoy a $5,000 discount when upon early booking of the new Jazz, although the first cars are only expected to be delivered to customers in September.