Sporty hybrid revealed by Honda

Jan 12 2010 Maurice Glover

Sporty hybrid revealed by Honda

HYBRID motoring has taken a sporty turn with the arrival of the new CR-Z from Honda.

Unveiled in Detroit, the world's first six-speed manual hybrid model is claimed to be the most exciting petrol-electric car yet.

'It looks good and is great fun to drive, but the hybrid system means exhaust emissions are kept low. With the torque boost of the electric motor, it's ideally suited to 'point-to-point' driving in British towns and cities,' said Honda UK head of marketing Tom Gardner.

Featuring a wide track and short wheelbase chassis, the 2+2 model uses a 1.5-litre I-VTEC engine and IMA hybrid system to provide output of 124bhp with 56mpg economy and tailpipe emissions of only 117g/km.

To maximise driver choice and enhance the day to day drivability of the car, the CR-Z has been fitted with a 3-Mode Drive System.

A unique feature, it allows the driver to choose between three driving modes to change the responses of the throttle, steering, idle stop timing, climate control and the level of assistance provided by the IMA system.

'The system allows drivers to choose whether they wish to maximise enjoyment, economy or strike a balance between the two. We're giving customers more choice in how the car will drive, depending on their needs and desires at the time,' said Mr Gardner.

The European version of the CR-Z goes on sale in the UK in summer 2010, and will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.