Honda CR-Z Hybrid Coupe Sales to Start in Japan in February 2010, Jazz - Fit Hybrid at the end of 2010

For some twisted reason, Honda likes to remind us every once in a while that the CR-Z hybrid sports coupe and the hybrid version of the Jazz - Fit will enter production. But to completely fair, at least this time the Japanese automaker released some new information in the form of the JDM launch dates. According to Honda, customers in Japan will be able to buy the CR-Z from February 2010 and the Fit Hybrid (Jazz in Europe) sometime before the end of 2010.

Honda added that the start date for European sales of the spiritual successor of the CR-X coupe that is based on the 2007 Tokyo Show CR-Z concept car will be released toward the end of 2009.

And what about the Jazz Hybrid? Well, Honda's exact words were "the IMA system will also be introduced into the award-winning Honda Jazz within the next few years." In other words, don't expect to see the hybrid supermini arriving at Honda's European showroom any time soon.

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2011 Honda CR-ZX: Production Version of the CR-X's Hybrid Replacement Rendered

The bad news for Honda fans is that the NSX's V10 successor has been canned while a replacement for the S2000 roadster that will end production this year is nowhere in sight (aside from magazine centerfolds, that is). The good news is that the CR-X will return, though in a somewhat different form tailored to meet the needs of today's 'eco-frenzy' world. In other words, the CR-X's successor will be a dedicated hybrid model - something in the likes of the Insight.

In its most recent issue, Japan's Best Car magazine features an artist's impression of the production version of the CR-Z concept car, which is mentioned as the CR-ZX. Not surpassingly, the cosmetic changes suggested are limited compared to the prototype model.

The report supports that the so-called CR-ZX will be powered by a tweaked version of the Insight's mild-hybrid drivetrain combining either a 1.3-liter or a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with a more powerful electric motor. We remind you that the Insight is equipped with 1.3-liter gasoline four-pot and a 13HP electric motor generating a combined output of 98HP.

We must note that reports from this side of the Atlantic are suggesting that the CR-ZX will mate a more lively 1.8-liter engine to the electric motor. Could be that both sides are right as Honda may develop different versions for Japan and the US / Europe.

The magazine mentions that the CR-ZX will be making its production debut at this October's Tokyo motorshow with the first examples of the compact coupe arriving at domestic dealerships early next year. In a recent statement, Honda said that the CR-ZX will be available in most markets by the end of 2010.

Via: Best Car

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