Honda CR-Z Hybrid

The CR-Z, according to Japanese media reports, is a precursor of a new gas-electric hybrid model that Honda plans to introduce by 2009 in Japan and North America. The company will say only that the concept is a "design research model of a lightweight Honda hybrid sports car."

The CR-Z is a follow-up to two recent Honda concepts, the Small Hybrid Sports shown earlier this year at Geneva and the Remix displayed at last year's Los Angeles show.

However, the Honda CR-Z's design looks more fully realized and, judging from the official images, the car appears to be virtually production-ready. And, more important, it exudes considerable sex appeal.

Among the scant details in the press release, Honda says the car will feature LED headlamps and 19-inch wheels and tires. The cabin is trimmed in a mesh material on a simple framework, while blue-neon-lit gauges are mounted in what Honda describes as "a piece of glass artwork."