The Honda Jazz III 1.3 i-VTEC (102 hp) Automatic, marketed in some regions as the Honda Fit, represents a significant iteration in Honda’s long-running subcompact hatchback lineage. Produced from 2015 to 2017, this variant occupied a key position within the third-generation Jazz (GE/GK) series, built on the versatile Global Small Car platform. It was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a fuel-efficient, practical, and easy-to-drive city car, particularly in European and Asian markets where manual transmissions traditionally dominate, but automatic options were gaining popularity. This model offered a balance between affordability and features, serving as a stepping stone between the base models and the more powerful 1.5-liter variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Jazz |
| Generation | Jazz III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 i-VTEC (102 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 year |
| End of production | 2017 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.5 kg/Nm, 105.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 123 Nm @ 5000 rpm (90.72 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | L13B, L13B2 |
| Engine displacement | 1318 cm3 (80.43 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.7 mm (3.1 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 3.48 l (3.68 US qt | 3.06 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1164 kg (2566.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1605 kg (3538.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 441 kg (972.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 354 l (12.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1314 l (46.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 35 kg (77.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 95 kg (209.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 3995 mm (157.28 in.) |
| Width | 1694 mm (66.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1980 mm (77.95 in.) |
| Height | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2530 mm (99.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1483 mm (58.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 110 mm (4.33 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 84H |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Jazz III 1.3 i-VTEC Automatic lies Honda’s L13B engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, often identified by codes L13B or L13B2 depending on minor revisions, is a member of Honda’s renowned i-VTEC family. The i-VTEC system utilizes variable valve timing and lift on both the intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency across the engine’s operating range. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine produces 102 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 123 Nm (90.72 lb-ft) of torque at 5000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), offering smooth, stepless gear changes. Honda’s CVTs are known for their efficiency and responsiveness, though they sometimes lack the direct feel of a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 i-VTEC Automatic Jazz delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for city driving and light highway use, with a 0-60 mph time of around 11.4 seconds. However, it’s not a particularly sporty vehicle. The CVT prioritizes fuel economy, and while it responds reasonably well to throttle inputs, it doesn’t offer the sharp gear changes of a dual-clutch transmission or a conventional automatic. The CVT’s ratios are tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine often operates at lower RPMs during cruising, contributing to quiet operation. Compared to the 1.5-liter variants, the 1.3L feels noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The manual transmission versions of the 1.3 offered a more engaging driving experience, but the automatic appealed to drivers prioritizing convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 i-VTEC Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘SE’ or ‘EX’ variants, added features like alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, and climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included navigation systems, upgraded audio systems, and metallic paint finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Jazz III utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, well-suited for urban environments. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The relatively lightweight nature of the vehicle contributes to its nimble handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Jazz III 1.3 i-VTEC Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and ease of use. However, some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance compared to rivals and the somewhat uninspiring driving experience. Compared to the 1.5-liter Jazz models, the 1.3 offered significantly better fuel economy but at the cost of performance. The 1.5-liter models were favored by drivers who prioritized a more spirited driving experience. In terms of reliability, the Jazz III has a strong reputation, with the 1.3 i-VTEC engine proving to be durable and relatively trouble-free.
Legacy
The Honda Jazz III 1.3 i-VTEC Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for first-time buyers and those seeking a reliable and economical city car. The L13B engine is known for its longevity, and the CVT transmission, while requiring regular fluid changes, is generally reliable. The Jazz’s spacious interior and clever ‘Magic Seats’ – which can be folded flat or flipped up to create a tall cargo area – continue to be highly valued by owners. While not a performance icon, the 1.3 i-VTEC Automatic Jazz represents a well-rounded and practical vehicle that has stood the test of time.
