Honda spins a funky Remix

Honda raised eyebrows at the Los Angeles Auto Show with this offbeat coupe, dubbed Remix.

Rather than being targeted at amateur DJs, the name may have been arrived at because the concept appears to be a 'remixed' version of the lamented early-1980s CRX. Its bulbous derriere may also have been inspired by the Hunchback of Notre Dame.

The Japanese carmaker says the Remix "explores the shape and design of a two-seat sports car focused on agile and fun-to-drive performance that can also provide exceptional practicality as a daily driver."

Although the manufacturer says it's "purely a design concept", chances are that some of the Remix's design elements will filter down to one or more of Honda's future production models.

A new-generation affordable coupe is presumably in Honda's product pipeline, seeing as the Prelude was axed a few years ago, while the Integra is also distinctly long in the tooth.

Originally launched here five years ago, the Integra's 2006 sales numbered just 564 until the end of November -- that's a modest average of 55 cars a month. This is in stark contrast to Honda Australia's overall sales performance this year; its YTD tally of 49,871 units means only Toyota, Holden, Ford and Mazda sell more cars locally.

Honda hasn't released detailed technical specs of the Remix, but it has revealed that it's underpinned by a front-wheel-drive small-car platform -- likely to be the same one used by the Civic -- with a four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual transmission.

It also has sports suspension and "aggressive tyres and brakes", which is proof of the car's sporting intent.

"Sports car in shape and design, the low-slung Remix features a wrap-around canopy that adds a fighter jet-feel to the driving experience," boasts Honda in its PR bumpf.

The concept is claimed to balance sports car virtues with real-world practicality, thanks to a rear storage area with "generous cargo room".

No mention of an onboard turntable... mobile DJs will be crestfallen.