2009 Honda Hybrid

Honda is following Toyota's success Prius hybrid in building a dedicated hybrid model for the planned 2009 model slotting below the Civic in size. Honda is planning a unique styled dedicated hybrid model that's different and unique in its own way, not just hybrid version of an existing model.

"Now buying a hybrid is very much about making a statement," Bonawitz, Vice President of Corporate Planning and Logistics for American Honda Co. said. "Obviously, this is leading us to bring a new hybrid to market that is uniquely styled." The new car, while lower in price than the Civic Hybrid, will still be a family car, and will not be a tiny commuter car like the Honda Insight, he added. Despite the car's low price, Honda will not lose money on it, he said. "It will not be a loss leader."