Malaysia - India-bound 2014 Honda Jazz bookings commenced; available in 3 variants

Bookings of the 2014 Honda Jazz have started in Malaysia ahead of its launch by the end of this month. The global premium hatchback recently entered Indonesia, New Zealand and Philippines.

The Malaysia-spec model will be available in three variants - S, E and V - all powered by the 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine that is also found in the Indian Honda City. The engine puts out 119 PS and 145 Nm of torque. A CVT is standard across the range.

Honda Malaysia is yet to announce the pricing and equipment level of each trim but the top end V variant would be packed with features like 6 airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Stop Assist, Emergency Start Stop signal, audio system with 7-inch display, Bluetooth, USB and HDMI connectivity, multi-function steering and automatic climate control.

The car will be displayed at various parts of the country by means of a moving road show, till the launch.

The new Jazz made its Indian premiere at the Auto Expo and is announced to be launched in India this financial year, probably in early 2015. The Indian version of the hatchback will be offered with both petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol engine would be the same 88 PS 1.2-litre i-VTEC unit that powered the old Jazz while the diesel engine would be the 100 PS 1.5-litre i-DTEC unit that also propels the Amaze, new City and the soon-to-be-launched Mobilio.

Competitors: Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta hatchback, VW Polo, Kia Rio, Hyundai i20, Maruti Swift, Tata Bolt

Expected Price in India: INR 5-7 lakhs