Honda will launch a new, affordable and family-sized five-door hatchback hybrid model next year.

The Honda hybrid range will be further expanded by the addition of a sports coupe model, based on the CR-Z concept (pictured).

Honda is also promising a hybrid version of the Jazz supermini to add a third new hybrid model to the range.

The new five-door hatchback hybrid model will use a lighter and more compact battery to save space and weight.

It will go on sale in spring next year.

“Honda’s long established commitment to the environment has enabled us to build a low emission car within the reach of more customers,” commented Ken Keir, managing director, Honda.

Also coming to the UK will be a hybrid-powered sports coupe model, the CR-Z. Honda says it will combine environmentally responsible performance with sports-car excitement. Honda says the arrival of the new Honda Hybrid hatchback will further accelerate the growth of hybrid sales in the UK. Honda reports that sales of the Civic Hybrid have increased 25% since 2007.

Hybrid vehicles combine a normal petrol engine with an electric motor. The motor assists the engine by giving it a boost during acceleration to improve fuel efficiency. The battery is re-charged with energy generated during deceleration and braking. The Honda Civic Hybrid has a fuel consumption of 61.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 109g/km.

New Honda Hybrid range: what’s coming?

• Honda Hybrid hatchback on sale spring 2009
• Honda Hybrid CR-Z sports coupe late 2009
• Honda Hybrid Jazz supermini 2010