Auto News 5

Honda is moving ahead with plans to create its own Scion-like sub-brand, using the emerging Chinese market as the launching point for the new line of cars.

The Japanese company and its Chinese partner, Guangzhou Honda, revealed an unnamed concept at the Beijing motor show that company officials say will be the first production model from the new Honda division.

The car has a sporty three-door hatch, based on the global City/Fit small sedan/hatchback chassis (not the larger U.S.-model Fit), was designed and will be produced in China.

The production for the car begins in 2010, which will be strictly for the Chinese market, at least at the start of production. The new model will be powered by a 1.8-liter engine.