Honda CR-Z hybrid updated

Honda has taken the wraps off an updated version of its compact hybrid coupe, the CR-Z, which was axed in Australia in January.

The car was removed from Australian showrooms after slow sales due to a high price point ($38,490) and strong competition from the likes of the significantly more affordable Hyundai Veloster and Toyota 86.

Honda Australia has no intention of returning the CR-Z to its line-up in this country in the current generation, the company's public relations manager, Melissa Cross, told motoring.com.au.

"We're focussed on new technology hybrids like the Honda Accord Sport Hybrid and the upcoming NSX supercar," she said.

Despite the development delays the NSX has run into, Cross validated previous reports stating that the Australia launch is still locked in for late 2016, despite being pushed back "a few months" due to the delays.

However, the status of what would be another attention-grabbing car for the brand, the Volkswagen Golf R-rivalling Honda Civic Type-R, is still in limbo, with the chances of Australians getting to drive that car within two years looking slim.

Scheduled to go on sale in Japan from October, the updated CR-Z features a mild visual makeover with a sportier, sleeker front-end design incorporating a reworked grille and LED headlights.

The rear-end has been tweaked to provide more differentiation for buyers, with new side skirts and 17-inch alloy wheels tying the new design together.

There's also a new exterior hue available -- Velvet Purple Pearl.

Honda's hybrid powertrain remains unchanged, meaning a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and small electric motor combine to deliver 100kW and 190Nm of torque.

Inside the cabin, current owners will notice a couple of minor changes, such as a new-look engine start button, an updated stereo and infotainment system and the adoption of an electric park brake.

Mechanical changes are limited to the chassis, with improved brakes, tweaked suspension and wider rear tyres all part of the offering.