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Honda has launched the world?s first hybrid sports coupe in the form of the arresting CR-Z. Despite huge international demand, the good news is that the CR-Z will arrive in South Africa before the end of the year.

The CR-Z links the environmental advantages of a clean and efficient hybrid drivetrain and the sporty appeal of a six-speed manual gearbox to a striking, streamlined 2+2 design. The result is an attractive and advanced performance coupe that's unmistakably Honda, which is set to change perceptions about hybrid cars forever.

The new CR-Z claims to have all the hallmarks of a thoroughbred performance machine. Its driver-focussed chassis is equipped with a wide track and short wheelbase for road holding, while the lightweight suspension has been tuned for taut, crisp response.

Fine-tuned steering

The highly steering system's electric assistance has been fine-tuned using advanced software to deliver a natural, linear heft and feedback, while large tyres on lightweight alloy rims deliver optimum grip while minimising unsprung mass.

At the heart of the CR-Z is a sophisticated parallel hybrid drivetrain with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), but specifically optimised to deliver on the CR-Z?s athletic motoring promise. The system combines a high-efficiency 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine with a compact, high-torque electric motor.

The motor is located between the engine and the clutch, and contributes up to 78Nm of additional torque at low to medium engine speeds.

Overall output of the parallel system is comparable with that of a conventional 1.8-litre petrol engine, offering 92kW of maximum power, and 174Nm of torque. However, the IMA system provides instant torque, which ensures instant response and supreme in-gear tractability.

Turbo performance

Acceleration of the CR-Z feels almost turbo-like, but accompanied by a sustained linearity and appetite for revs that contributes substantially to the Honda's sporty character.

he CR-Z parallel hybrid drive system is operated using an innovative three-mode drive system. The driver can select one of three driving modes. Each mode has its own set of operating parameters, which determine aspects such as throttle response, steering feel, and IMA boost.

The driver can therefore select a mode that best suits the prevailing driving conditions, personal preferences and requirements, or optimises operating efficiency. The three settings ? Normal, Sport and Econ ? are easily selected and engage instantly.

The six-speed manual gearbox is a first for a hybrid car and significantly enhances driving experience and involvement. The ratios have been selected for optimum power application and response in the lower gears, and a greater focus on cruising capability and comfort on longer journeys.

Beyond the mark

The CR-Z's eco-friendly credentials are borne out by its fuel efficiency and low emissions. The coupe is credited with a combined-cycle fuel consumption figure of only five litres/100km, while the CO2 emissions rating stands at 117g/km ? below the impending 120g/km emissions tax threshold, due for introduction in SA in September this year.

The CR-Z is certain to turn heads. It is instantly recognisable as a member of the Honda stable, but incorporates futuristic lines and contours quite unlike any previous model.

However, there are some pointers to its coupe heritage. The unusual, split-level tailgate, with its lower glassed area, is reminiscent of the legendary Honda CR-X, a lightweight two-door coupe that could be considered one of the CR-Z's ancestors.

Sleek

The front displays a strong Honda identity, while the profile is sleek and smooth, with a sculpted waistline that underscores its dynamic potential. The same goes for the low-slung, almost crouching stance, which contributes to the Honda's striking, dashing figure.

The cabin mirrors the design focus on dynamic appeal and innovative execution. The dashboard has been shaped to focus the driver's attention, while also providing an at-a-glance overview of the various controls and instruments.

The high-tech, 3D instruments are illuminated in one of three colours. Each colour is associated with one of the three driving modes and the illumination changes accordingly.

Keep it green

A display shows a variety of trip-orientated data, while an eco assist bar provides a graphic display of how frugally the car is being driven. At the end of a journey, the display even shows an eco-score, and compares the score of the most recent journey to the previous one.

The CR-Z offers comfortable 2+2 accommodation, thanks to two large, sculpted front row, and a smaller, integrated rear bench. There's a decent luggage compartment, too, and the rear seatback can be folded down to enhance cargo space if required.

While the final specification for SA-bound CR-Zs still has to be confirmed, the list of standard equipment is expected to be comprehensive, with a full house of convenience and safety features.

The Honda CR-Z is due to go on sale in SA later this year.