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Honda CR-Z Mugen arrives February 2012

Honda Mugen CR-Z will cost under £24k Honda told us that the Mugen CR-Z was just a concept, but now we learn that the hot CR-Z will arrive in the UK in February 2012 from ‘under £24k’. The Honda CR-Z is a decent enough little car; it has sporty handling and sporty looks, but it’s a real anti-climax to drive thanks to its 1.5 litre hybrid setup. Stung by criticism of the CR-Z’s performance, Honda got Mugen to have a play with its sporty little hybrid this year, and they did what Honda should probably have done from the start – strap on a supercharger to the hybrid lump.

Design Contest: Michelin Challenge Design announces 2008 theme and call for entries

Michelin Challenge Design, one of the world's fastest growing transportation design programs, has announced it will continue its focus on safety in 2008 under the central theme of 'Safety over Size.' The 2008 theme was announced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, where the Michelin Challenge Design exhibit showcased works from vehicle manufacturers, students, as well as the first full-size concept to be submitted by an independent entrant. Rising energy costs, urban congestion and environmental concerns are all contributing to an increased interest in smaller vehicles, but consumers are often hesitant to consider smaller vehicles due to safety concerns that are both real and perceived. Participating designers are encouraged to 'throw away the book' and to present ideas that enhance the real and perceived safety and security of smaller vehicles through design innovations in areas such as accident avoidance, enhanced driver controls, survivability and visibility.

Nissan to alter design philosophy to attract females and younger buyers

Nissan will transform its design philosophy in an attempt to reengage with its female and younger buyers, the carmaker's director of Global Upstream Planning Rachel Nguyen has revealed. Speaking at the Nissan 360 event in the US, she announced Nissan is planning new gender-specific concepts to explore what women expect from their vehicles. "When we study the ideal vehicle partner qualities that women customers want, we hear that they want vehicles with effective technologies, especially intuitive navigation systems," she said.