We received a batch of pics and the following text from Brenda Priddy overnight.

Developmental Test Mule A first glance this may look like Honda’s “Airwave” – a small Asian-market people-mover or wagon. The “Airwave” badge is covered with a small piece of electrical tape, as are the Honda badges. With an expected facelift on the Airwave for the 2009 model year, it would have been easy to assume that this was just a freshening. Although it did seem odd to see two left-hand-drive versions of the Asia-only Honda. It was difficult to see the body-colored panels welded on from afar, but getting a close-up look at this “Airwave” - we quickly noticed the front clip and headlamps were right off the Japanese version of the Jazz/Fit. In addition – the dash and all the gauges were right off the Fit. This was NO Airwave! Nor was this a Fit! This is actually a developmental test mule for the much-publicized 2010 “Global Small Hybrid”. And this isn’t speculation! Because styling details aren’t visible, sources were willing to divulge a few details about these very vehicles, and we were able to CONFIRM that these are in fact engineering mules for Honda’s Prius-fighting Hybrid. Honda’s all-new hybrid, which will debut in 2009, is expected to exceed the current Prius’ miles-per-gallon rating – as well as offering the vehicle at a lower base price. Worldwide, sales are estimated at 200,000 units annually, with 100,000 – or half of the cars sold – to be here in the States. The new hybrid will be built in Suzuka, Japan, and will offer an all-new and dedicated hybrid powertrain. Brenda Priddy & Company

Here are two pics of the "mule".

Last edited by JeffX on September 12, 2007 08:00