New Honda Jade RS Goes On Sale In Japan: 1.5-Litre VTEC Turbo Six-Seater MPV

In February, the Japanese-market Honda Jade went on sale in its country of origin packing a 1.5-litre i-DCD (Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive) petrol-electric hybrid powertrain paired with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Now, Honda have introduced a new addition to the Jade line-up, powered by the brand’s new 1.5-litre direct injection VTEC turbocharged engine, dubbing the car the Honda Jade RS.

Aside from the new engine, the powertrain in the RS version replaces the dual-clutch transmission with a seven-speed CVT that can be operated with paddle shifters and the hybrid system has been removed. This means that the Jade RS has a claimed fuel economy of 18km/litre compared to the non-RS’ 25.0km/litre.

Exterior changes to mark it as the Jade RS include a different mesh-type front grille which features the ‘RS’ emblem. Everything else including the chrome fog light surrounds, outer door handle, tailgate molding, and 17-inch aluminum wheels are retained.

The six-seat arrangement remains here as well, available in black and brown depending on the choice between two interior colours. Red stitching can be found on the leather-wrapped steering wheel while the pedals adopt a sportier design.

Being the RS version of the Jade, both the front and rear suspensions have been increased rigidity by 15% and 20% respectively, as compared to the hybrid version. The springs and dampers themselves have also been retuned with specific settings to deliver a sporty feel. Add to this the Agile Handling Assist (AHA) electronic control system that utilises brake vectoring to improve corner traceability while a tunnel brace was added as a reinforcement member to the underfloor panel to enhance the rigidity of floor area.

The Honda Jade RS will go on sale in the Japanese market only as of now, priced at 2,530,000 yen (RM75,299).