2023 Honda Jazz RS makes us wish it was still here in PH

If there's one Honda we miss seeing out on the road, it's the all-new Jazz (AKA the Honda Fit). Ever since the 4^th generation model was launched at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, the stylish little hatchback has gone upmarket and is now only available in select markets like Japan, Europe, China, and Singapore.

While we do have the City Hatchback as its spiritual successor, we cannot help but imagine what would have happened if the Honda Jazz was actually still available to the Philippines. And now, the Japanese automaker has just revealed the facelifted 2023 Jazz, and it's sporting a more aggressive look.

For the first time, the 4^th generation Jazz is now available in the RS trim which gives it a sportier vibe. Much like the RS versions we get for the Brio, City, City Hatchback, and the Civic, the Jazz RS gets a new mesh-type front grille, along with a blacked-out bumper trim complete with red RS badging. The five-door also comes with deeper side sills, larger alloy wheels, as well as a rear spoiler.

Inside, the hatchback looks more or less the same as the pre-facelift version. However, it does come with some neat add-ons that include contrast stitching on the leather steering wheel, paddle shifters, as well as a new drive mode selector placed on the dashboard. Carried over from the pre-updated Jazz are the automatic climate control and the 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Powering the 2022 Jazz RS is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that benefits from the e:HEV system. Honda did not go into specifics, but they did say that the hybrid powertrain now comes with increased motor output and improved acceleration. Currently, the Jazz e:HEV with two electric motors produces 109 PS along with 253 Nm of torque.

Despite the Jazz receiving its first-ever facelift, don't expect the cute (or sporty) hatchback to make its way to the Philippines. It will continue to be available only in certain markets. But for Jazz owners in the country, perhaps they might be able to make their hatchback look just like the brand new RS version that's already available in Japan.