Honda CR-Z (2010): more details of Euro version

More details emerged today on the European-spec Honda CR-Z hybrid coupé. It’s the big news on the Honda stand at the 2010 Geneva motor show – and they’ve now confirmed the all-important emissions and economy figures for this greener sports car.

The new CR-Z achieves 56.4mpg and pumps out 117g/km of CO2, says Honda. Like the Japanese market car, the Euro CR-Z can be ordered in 2+2 guise, although the rear seats are best left for more petite passengers.

This hybrid coupé is based on the hardware of the Honda Insight petrol-electric saloon, so don’t get carried away with all this sports car chat. The two share the same 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine and IMA hybrid tech.

To import a degree of athleticism, Honda will equip European CR-Z cars with a three-mode drive system, to tailor the steering, throttle response and degree of electric boost. Drivers pick full performance mode, a dedicated eco setting or Normal.

One telltale giveaway on EU-spec cars is the day time running lights; eight LEDs bring the bottom blade of the headlamps to life 24/7.

The CR-Z arrives in summer 2010; prices will be announced at Geneva.

By Tim Pollard