VIDEO: 2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid Sports Coupe - The Inside Story

Revealed to the public for the first time in production trim at last week's Detroit motor show, the Honda CR-Z hybrid sports coupe is one of the most anticipated new cars of the year.

In this first official film, the CR-Z's project leader, Norio Tomobe, and one of its chief engineers, Terukazu Torikai, provide an insight into the development process behind the new model focusing primarily on the car's handling qualities.

"During the development if the CR-Z we drove many cars and also bought several models for comparison and benchmarking including the MINI, the VW Scirocco coupe and also a Lotus Elise. The target of this car was to realize enhanced handling." says Terukazu Torikai.

Then again, with a mere 122-horsepower from its 1.5-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powerplant, the CR-Z had better handle well...