Honda unveiled the second concept version of its sporty hybrid coupe the CR-Z at the Tokyo Motor Show.  The production version will make its world debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit just months from now.

The concept displayed in Tokyo features seating for four, though Honda notes that the production version "will be packaged as a sporty, 2 seat hybrid that provides a personal driving experience for North American customers."

Erik Berkman, vice president of Automobile Corporate Planning and Logistics for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. said, "The Honda CR-Z will expand our lineup of hybrid vehicles and reinforce the fun-to-drive values associated with the Honda brand. Beyond great styling and features, CR-Z will bring new levels of engagement and fun to customers interested a small car or a hybrid vehicle."

The CR-Z will join Honda's lineup of current hybrid vehicles which includes the Insight, and the Civic Hybrid.  The CR-Z will boast more power than any existing Honda hybrid and will be Honda's first hybrid offered with a manual transmission.  The company believes this hybrid will break new ground as a sporty, hybrid coupe with unique values and redefines what a hybrid can be.

Look for the production version to be unveiled in Detroit this January.

Source:  Honda Press Release

 10/20/2009 - TOKYO -

Honda today debuted the much-anticipated CR-Z Concept 2009, the second concept version of the stylish, sporty hybrid coupe, at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show. While the vehicle displayed at the show is a global concept with a rear seat, the production version that will be introduced to North America in the second half of 2010 will be packaged as a sporty, 2-seat hybrid that provides a personal driving experience for North American customers.

"The Honda CR-Z will expand our lineup of hybrid vehicles and reinforce the fun-to-drive values associated with the Honda brand," said Erik Berkman, vice president of Automobile Corporate Planning and Logistics for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Beyond great styling and features, CR-Z will bring new levels of engagement and fun to customers interested a small car or a hybrid vehicle."

CR-Z will join the Insight and Civic Hybrid in the Honda hybrid lineup, each offering distinct benefits. Civic Hybrid, launched in 2003, was Honda’s first mainstream model to feature hybrid power. The 2010 Insight, introduced in March 2009, ushered in a new era of affordability for a hybrid family sedan. The CR-Z will break new ground as a sporty, hybrid coupe with unique value.

The production version of the Honda CR-Z will make its world debut at the January 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

For more information and downloadable high-resolution images of the CR-Z Concept 2009 and other Honda vehicles, please visit www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at www.honda.com.