HONDA'S ground-breaking new CR-Z model will cost from £16,999 when the order book opens on Friday (March 5).

Dubbed the world's first sporty hybrid coupe, the CR-Z comes in three trim grades and deliveries are expected to start in early summer.

As well as Honda's petrol-electric IMA system, the car features three driving modes which allow the driver to adapt the vehicle's settings for situations like dashing in and out of traffic or maximising economy.

All versions are well equipped with six airbags, active headrests, vehicle stability assist, climate control, 6-speaker CD player and an engine start button.

S grades get heated door mirrors, rear dimming mirror, electric windows, daytime running lights, shift indicator light and auxilliary socket while Sport grades have additional ambient lighting, alloy pedals, cruise control, leather gear shift, multi function steering wheel, parking sensors, privacy glass, 240W premium audio system, boot-mounted subwoofer and USB port for MP3 players.

Top grade GT models are equipped with the above, plus full leather upholstery and heated front seats, panoramic glass roof, HID Xenon headlights, Hands-Free Telephone (HFT), and automatic headlights and wipers. GT models are available with optional DVD Satellite Navigation.

Prices are £16,999 for the CR-Z S model, £17,999 for the Sport version and £19,999 for the CR-Z GT.