The Honda Jazz IV Crosstar 1.5 i-MMD (109 Hp) e:HEV e-CVT, marketed in North America as the Honda Fit, represents a significant evolution in Honda’s supermini offerings. Produced from July 2020 to April 2023, this variant occupied a unique position within the fourth-generation Jazz (or Fit) lineup, blending hybrid technology with a crossover-inspired aesthetic. It was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, where fuel efficiency and compact dimensions are highly valued. The Crosstar trim, in particular, sought to appeal to buyers desiring a slightly more rugged and adventurous look compared to the standard Jazz models. This version utilized Honda’s innovative e:HEV powertrain, a full hybrid system designed for optimal efficiency and a smooth driving experience.
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Jazz |
| Generation | Jazz IV |
| Type (Engine) | Crosstar 1.5 i-MMD (109 Hp) e:HEV e-CVT |
| Start of production | July, 2020 |
| End of production | April, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 110 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | EURO 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 87 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.9 Nm/tonne |
| Electric motor power | 109 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 253 Nm (186.6 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| System power | 109 Hp |
| System torque | 253 Nm (186.6 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 5500-6400 rpm |
| Torque | 131 Nm @ 4500-5000 rpm (96.62 lb.-ft. @ 4500-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LEB8 |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.51 mm (3.52 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VTEC EVTC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 3.85 l (4.07 US qt | 3.39 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1253-1255 kg (2762.39 – 2766.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455-457 kg (1003.1 – 1007.51 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 298 l (10.52 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1199 l (42.34 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4090 mm (161.02 in.) |
| Width | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2520 mm (99.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 152 mm (5.98 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.1 m (33.14 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission e-CVT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 185/60 R16 86H |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Jazz Crosstar 1.5 i-MMD is Honda’s Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) hybrid system. This isn’t a traditional parallel hybrid; instead, it operates primarily on electric power, with the 1.5-liter LEB8 gasoline engine acting mainly as a generator. The engine, producing 98 horsepower at 5500-6400 rpm and 131 Nm (96.62 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500-5000 rpm, is coupled with an electric motor delivering 109 horsepower and 253 Nm (186.6 lb.-ft.) of torque. The e-CVT (electronic continuously variable transmission) seamlessly blends power from both sources. The engine utilizes direct injection and Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing system for improved efficiency and performance. The i-MMD system features three driving modes: EV Drive (all-electric), Hybrid Drive (engine generates electricity, powering the electric motor), and Engine Drive (engine directly powers the wheels at higher speeds).
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5L i-MMD e-CVT powertrain delivers a unique driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph takes approximately 9.4 seconds, and 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 9.9 seconds, with a top speed of 172 km/h (106.88 mph). The e-CVT provides smooth, linear acceleration, lacking the stepped gear changes of a conventional automatic. Compared to the standard 1.5-liter Jazz with a manual transmission, the i-MMD offers improved fuel economy but slightly reduced outright performance. The electric motor’s instant torque provides brisk initial acceleration, making it well-suited for urban driving. The system prioritizes efficiency, so the engine can sometimes feel strained during hard acceleration, as it operates primarily to charge the battery or provide direct drive at higher speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crosstar trim level, positioned as a mid-range offering, came standard with features like Honda Sensing safety suite (including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking system), a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and climate control. Interior upholstery typically featured a combination of fabric and synthetic leather. Optional extras included a premium audio system, navigation system, and parking sensors. The Crosstar also featured unique exterior styling elements, such as black cladding around the wheel arches and rocker panels, giving it a more rugged appearance.
Chassis & Braking
The Jazz Crosstar utilizes a front-wheel-drive configuration with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a compliant ride quality. The Crosstar’s slightly increased ride height (152 mm / 5.98 in.) compared to the standard Jazz contributes to its crossover-inspired aesthetic and provides a bit more ground clearance for navigating rougher terrain. Electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Jazz IV Crosstar 1.5 i-MMD received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. Its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior were frequently praised. However, some reviewers noted the engine could feel underpowered during aggressive driving. Compared to other trims in the Jazz lineup, the i-MMD offered superior fuel economy but came at a higher price point. Against competitors like the Toyota Yaris Hybrid, the Jazz Crosstar offered a more spacious interior and a more refined driving experience, but the Yaris Hybrid often boasted slightly better fuel economy.
Legacy
The Honda Jazz IV Crosstar 1.5 i-MMD powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable. The i-MMD system, while complex, has demonstrated good long-term durability. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, due to their fuel efficiency and Honda’s reputation for reliability. The e-CVT transmission, while different from traditional automatics, has generally proven to be dependable with proper maintenance. The Jazz IV, and particularly the Crosstar variant, represents a significant step forward in Honda’s hybrid technology and continues to be a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and well-equipped supermini.
