Review: Honda GD1/GD3 Jazz (2002-08)

Honda GD1.I and GD3.I Jazz (2002-04)

Overview

Released in October 2002, the Honda Jazz was a front-wheel drive, five-door hatchback. Initially manufactured in Suzuka, Japan, the GD1 Jazz was powered by a 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (GLi variants), while the GD3 Jazz had a 1.5-litre engine (for VTi and VTi-S variants). Transmission options consisted of a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT); for the VTi and VTi-S variants, the CVT had seven pre-defined ratios which could be engaged via the steering wheel gearshift paddles.

L13A and L15A1 engines

The GD1 Jazz GLi was powered by Honda’s L13A i-DSI (intelligent Dual and Sequential Ignition) engine which had a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), two valves per cylinder and two spark plugs per cylinder which fired at different intervals during combustion for greater efficiency.

The GD3 Jazz VTi and VTi-S were powered by Honda’s L15A1 VTEC engine which omitted the i-DSI system but was fitted with Honda’s VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system which enabled the engine to select different camshaft profiles for low and high rpm operations.

Dimensions and suspension

The GD1/GD3 Jazz utilised Honda’s Global Small Car Platform and was 3830 mm long, 1675 mm wide, 1525 mm tall and had a 2450 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the GD1/GD3 Jazz had MacPherson strut front suspension and an extended H-shaped torsion beam rear suspension which enabled a lower rear cabin floor for greater cargo capacity. The Jazz was also fitted with an electric power steering (EPS) system.

The Jazz had an electric power steering (EPS) system.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the GD1.I and GD3.I Jazz included dual front airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution and front seatbelt pretensioners.

ANCAP and Euro NCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , the Jazz received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 25.65. In the offset crash test, protection from serious chest and leg injury was marginal for the driver. In the side impact test, there was only a slight risk of serious abdomen injury for the driver.

In Euro NCAP crash testing , the Jazz received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 25.

Features: Jazz GLi, VTi and VTi-S

Standard features for the Jazz GLi included a four speaker sound system with CD player, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, central locking, power mirrors and power windows, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel and an immobiliser.

Beyond this, the Jazz VTi added air conditioning and remote central locking, while the VTi-S was also fitted with 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and body kit; the CVT models were also fitted with steering wheel gearshift buttons.

Honda GD1.II and GD3.II Jazz (2004-08)

Overview

Released in October 2004, the GD1 and GD3 Series II (GD1.II and GD3.II) Jazz could be identified by its redesigned bumpers and grille, larger headlights, streamlined indicators, chrome-plated headlight rings and more integrated parking lights. The VTi-S was further distinguished by its new 15-inch nine-spoke alloy wheels, larger front air intake with mesh grille and ‘gill-like’ side strakes.

Inside, the centre console was updated and the VTi and VTi-S had new seat fabrics and a self-illuminating instrument displays; CVT models also had steering wheel gearshift paddles (replacing the steering wheel gearshift buttons).

2005 Jazz Vibe editions

In March 2005, limited run Vibe editions of the GLi and VTi variants were released. Compared to their GLi and VTi counterparts, the GLi Vibe gained air conditioning and front fog lamps, while the VTi Vibe gained a six-stack CD player and front fog lamps.

Thai production

From March 2006, the GD.II Jazz was imported from Thailand (previously Japan) and standard features were enhanced to include air conditioning, remote central locking and a 12 volt power outlet; the VTi and VTi-S were also fitted with power retractable door mirrors. Visually, these models could be identified by their LED tail lights and high-mounted rear brake light.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Honda Fit (first generation)