Honda's CR-Z is one of the best hybrid's on the planet

Quentin Willson on May 15, 2010 9:01 PM in Quentin Willson's Sunday column

http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/cars-motorbikes/quentin-willson/

If you think Hondas are middle-aged, think again. Their new CR-Z two-door hybrid coupe is set to become one of the most desirable cars on the planet.

Looking like nothing else on the road, with a wonderful swooping roofline, it's a lulu to drive.

Think very hi-tech Ford Puma and you've got it. An electric motor gives the 1.5litre engine a sort of supercharger effect, delivering 57mpg, 117g/km, delicious performance and some of the best steering responses this side of a BMW.

In short, the CR-Z handles and steers delectably.

You can choose between Sport, Normal and Eco modes but, hybrid or not, you'll probably leave it in Sport, simply because it's so much fun.

The modified six-speed Civic gear box has short, snicking throws and the VTEC Jazz engine spins gamely to 6,000 rpm with a raspy exhaust note.

Sixty comes up in just under ten seconds and top speed is 124, but even if you're heavy-footed you'll still get mid-50s mpg.

I was going to make rude remarks about the CR-Z being a girlie car, but it's not. Any red-blooded bloke will adore its looks, attitude and driver involvement.

This is one of Honda's best cars yet, and the world's first truly sporting hybrid coupe. Best news of all, it's less than £20k. Sustainability never looked sexier.