Honda confirms hybrid CR-Z sports car

Honda has confirmed production of its first hybrid sports car – the CR-Z.

The car – which runs on petrol and electricity – made its world debut as a concept at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show and is due to go on sale next year.

The new hybrid is the spiritual successor to Honda’s front-wheel drive CR-X, which was last sold in 1991.

Honda claims the CR-Z sports hybrid will feature “advanced technologies which deliver enjoyable driving, while reducing the car’s environmental footprint.”

No performance figures have been revealed by Honda, but it’s rumoured the car will produce 140bhp with a 1.8-litre engine.

Honda’s new CEO Takanobu Ito announced the CR-Z sports hybrid will go on sale in Japan from February 2010. UK sale dates will be announced later this year.

What do you think of the Honda CR-Z? Download wallpaper and have your say on the Auto Trader Blog

Ito began his work as an engineer and was responsible for bringing the Honda NSX from concept to production. He also worked as project leader for the NSX’s aluminium ‘unibody’ construction.

This meant that rather than having the car’s body on a separate frame, the body was built as a single unit – like most new cars are today.

The CR-Z features the same Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid technology as the Honda Insight and Honda Civic. IMA will also be introduced into the Honda Jazz over the next few years.

Honda is also developing a new hybrid system for medium and large-sized vehicles.

Expect more details of the CR-Z to be released at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show on October 23.

Check out this video review of the Honda Insight: