BEIJING — Tucked away in a corner of Honda's stand at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show was a small purple concept, called Li Nian, which can be loosely translated as "concept" or "idea."
The five-door hatchback looks like a cross between the Honda Fit and the new Ford Fiesta. Although not slated for production, it is intended to show the styling direction for the new Li Nian range, which will be marketed, beginning in 2010, as a youth-oriented sub-brand of Guangzhou Honda (à la Toyota's Scion).
Honda released virtually no details on the compact crossover other than to say the design and engineering were done locally by Guangzhou Honda Automobile Research & Development.
The concept represents "the challenge to realize a dream-inspiring future, and reflects the image of a dynamic, stylish and high-quality life for a new generation," according to the company's press material.
Honda said the Li Nian name is "based on a desire to create a brand that will continue pursuing lofty ideals with a challenging spirit." It said future Li Nian products will be marketed in China through the Guangzhou Honda sales network.
What this means to you: The car may not be nearly as important as the idea that Honda and its local partner want to create a Scion-like portfolio in China. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
The five-door hatchback looks like a cross between the Honda Fit and the new Ford Fiesta. Although not slated for production, it is intended to show the styling direction for the new Li Nian range, which will be marketed, beginning in 2010, as a youth-oriented sub-brand of Guangzhou Honda (à la Toyota's Scion).
Honda released virtually no details on the compact crossover other than to say the design and engineering were done locally by Guangzhou Honda Automobile Research & Development.
The concept represents "the challenge to realize a dream-inspiring future, and reflects the image of a dynamic, stylish and high-quality life for a new generation," according to the company's press material.
Honda said the Li Nian name is "based on a desire to create a brand that will continue pursuing lofty ideals with a challenging spirit." It said future Li Nian products will be marketed in China through the Guangzhou Honda sales network.
What this means to you: The car may not be nearly as important as the idea that Honda and its local partner want to create a Scion-like portfolio in China. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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