New Honda Jazz's Indian launch delayed to June; Accord to relaunch at Auto Expo 2016 - Report

Expected to come with similar localization levels as that of the City. 

The new Honda Jazz, which was expected to launch in the Indian market this month, will be delayed until June this year, states a report on Autocar India. Production constraints with existing models is the reason cited for the delay.

Certain variants of the City have a waiting period of 2-4 months, while some Amaze variants are facing a waiting of 2-5 months. Honda is understood to be expediting production of these models, and is hence delaying the launch of the Jazz. However recall that Honda India had started production of the Jazz for South African export earlier in the year.

The Japanese car maker wants to be sure of matching the Indian market demand for the Jazz, as high waiting times put off prospective customers. The new Jazz is expected to fare better than its predecessor, which had a high asking price, and was never available with a diesel engine.

The incoming model, which is based on the new City's platform, will be available with the 1.5-liter diesel engine and the 1.2-liter petrol engine. Honda has also upped localization level to about 90 percent for its new products like the Amaze, City, Mobilio and forthcoming Jazz.

Also read: Honda HR-V for Europe revealed at the Geneva Motor Show

Post the launch of the new Jazz, Honda Cars India would introduce the new Accord at the 2016 Auto Expo, the report adds. Honda Cars India's officials maintain that the company "is committed" on launching the new Accord, and even showcased the sedan at last year's Auto Expo.

Competitors: Maruti Swift, Hyundai Elite i20, VW Polo, Tata Bolt, Fiat Punto Evo
Expected Price: INR 5-7 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date in India: June 2015

[Source - Autocar India]