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Honda has confirmed a new two-seater sports car for the
Tokyo Motor Show on the 24th of October. The CR-Z is in essence a revived CR-X, but more focused on driver satisfaction and a particular emphasis on desirable styling.
With a coupé profile and bold, angular edges the concept has managed a blend of coolness and sophistication, especially at the front where a deeply pronounced grille houses a large and flashy Honda 'H'. The rear is similarly impressive with a tinted T-shaped glass cover across the full backside that blends nicely into a full panoramic glass sunroof.
Honda will use the concept to showcase its latest hybrid VTEC IMA powertrain, with the Japanese manufacturer keen to emphasise that, despite the concept's affirmation for the keener drivers among us, it is fully capable of being economical and environmentally friendly too.
Some sources are suggesting that like VW's decision to revive the Scirocco sports car, Honda is already in the final stages before signing off the CR-Z for production as early as next year. This would open up yet another prospect for Honda's diverse series of engines and the possibility of a range-topping performance model with the full Type R upgrades.
Not one for the production catalogue as such, the Honda Puyo concept will also feature in Tokyo. With edgeless styling in a soft 'gel body' coat, the Japanese firm insists that the Puyo would provide 'real world' vehicle and pedestrian safety, as well as satisfying future emissions regulations using a hydrogen fuel cell for propulsion.
The squashy outer layer of the concept smothers cleverly hidden lighting that can highlight doors and other manual functions. Inside, a joystick has replaced a conventional steering wheel whilst elsewhere, the cabin is futuristic looking in the sense that no production car of today would be so lacking in creature comforts and trim.
Honda is additionally debuting the new Fit, rebadged as the Jazz in UK markets. The Japanese market will see the introduction of thin-film solar cells on the model not long after its initial release.
The Car Enthusiast will be in Tokyo to spill more beans on Honda's line-up.
Kyle Molyneux - 18 Oct 2007