2010 Detroit Auto Show: 2011 Honda CR-Z

Honda's new sport hybrid coupe, the CR-Z, was shown at Detroit in full production trim. Powered by a 1.5-liter, i-VTEC inline-4 mated to the latest version of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist hybrid-electric system, the CR-Z delivers 122 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque to your right foot.

More promisingly, engineers responsible for the little hybrid have publicly described the car's handling as, "fun to drive," comparing it to the MINI and even benchmarking against the Lotus Elise - one of the best handling cars in the world. So while the numbers from the drivetrain don't suggest the car will be fast - the handling should make the CR-Z an entertaining back-road dance partner.

Also a mixed bag, the design of the CR-Z may, at first glance, take you back to the days of the beloved Honda CR-X - especially viewed from a rear three-quarter angle, where the vertical glass panel integrated into the hatch and the extreme taper of the body-side recall that sporty little car. Around the side, the rakish window graphics and steeply raked roof line also promise a sporty character.

Viewed from the front however, any CR-X rebirth hopes are dashed as the tall and long front end appears to be inspired by Honda's Insight, rather than any of its previous hot hatches. Partially to blame are pedestrian laws that require a minimum clearance of 7cm between a car's hood and any hard-points beneath it - legislation which seems to have adversely affected some car manufacturers more than others. But the length of the CR-Z's nose is disconcerting at best and doesn't work with the rest of the car, wreaking havoc on the CR-Z's proportions.

At least the story gets much better inside. The CR-Z's futuristic interior fits with the car's fun and funky personality, with a driver-focused cockpit layout and a standard 6-speed manual, or optional CVT - complete with paddles behind the steering wheel.

Due to arrive in dealerships toward the end of the summer, the Honda CR-Z will look to add some sizzle to the lackluster sales of its Insight hybrid sibling. Will it prove to be a new kind of hybrid, offering a mix of fun and economy? Or will it be nothing more than a three-door Insight? Stand by for a full OnCars road test of Honda’s sport hybrid coupe later this year for the answers.

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