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A production-ready Honda CR-Z has made its debut at the North American International Motor Show in Detroit. The CR-Z is billed as the first production hybrid sports car, and the first ever with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor, it has a maximum output of 122bhp and 128lb/ft of pulling power.

As you'd expect from a hybrid it's clean too, emitting just 117g/km of CO2 on the combined cycle. The CR-Z is 295mm shorter than the Honda Insight hybrid and weighs 44kg less. This, and its firmer suspension give it "kart-like" handling according to Honda.

Its wedge-shaped styling is inspired by the 1990's Honda CRX, but brought right up do date. The shark-like nose is heavily influenced by the Insight, and there are ultra-modern LED lights at the front and rear.

Inside, the CR-Z has a 2+2 layout with two front sports seats and occasional rear seats. The space-age dashboard of the concept has been toned down for production, but still features 3D instruments and main controls placed within easy reach of the instrument binnacle.

Expect the Honda CR-Z to go on sale in the UK during the summer, after its official European debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

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