The new Honda hybrid will hit dealer showrooms in April 2009. That’s the official word from Honda about the hybrid-specific yet-to-be named hybrid—designed to take the Prius head-on in the battle for the hybrid market.
The Toyota Prius’s design—raking windshield, rounded roof line and swooping hatchback—has been emblazoned in the public consciousness as the very definition of what a hybrid is supposed to look like. That will present a difficult challenge for Honda, as it prepares to launch its new hybrid-only subcompact—shown here as an "unofficial" illustration based on spy photos.
Honda today announced that it will introduce its new small hybrid in early 2009, as well as another unique small hybrid vehicle based on the sporty CR-Z compact concept sports car—and a hybrid version of the Honda Fit subcompact.
Honda has been tightly guarding the details about its next hybrid, which the company is introducing next year. But details are emerging. The subcompact hybrid will be priced below the Civic Hybrid, will use nickel metal hydride batteries, and will take design cues from the sleek Honda FCX Clarity.
