HONDA'S flagship model for its recently launched Accord five-door - the Accord Type-V is making its world debut at Frankfurt ahead of its official UK launch date next month. Whereas the Type-R is the fire-breathing sporting variant, the Type-V is the flagship luxury model and will be available in five-door format only with the manufacturer's 2.0-litre engine, combined with leather seats, electronic climate control and satellite navigation option.

Another new five-door, the HR-V, is also grabbing attention before its spring UK launch, when it will cost under £17,000. Specification will include remote central locking, ABS, air conditioning, roof spoiler and 16in alloy wheels. The car gains 100mm in length and wheelbase over the three-door model to increase rear passenger space. Those in the back also have reclining 50:50 split seat backs and a new centre console.

Further details were released on the radical Insight, which was making its public debut. It is an electric/petrol hybrid, claiming 83mpg and the lowest CO2 figures produced by a mass production car - 80g/km.

The 67bhp 1.0-litre 3-cylinder VTEC engine - the lightest 1.0-litre in the world - and electric motor, which boosts power to 55bhp through a five-speed manual gearbox, hits 62mph in 12 seconds and reaches 111mph. Spec includes ABS, remote central locking, power steering, twin air bags, power windows and mirrors, air conditioning and immobiliser. Fleets can expect to pay about £16,000 on seeing it in the UK in March next year, although it may be the first car to have a manufacturer's lease to ensure the batteries can be tracked and recycled at the end of the car's life.