Honda Beat Successor Rumored With Dual-Clutch Transmission
Beat it, just Beat it! Honda is looking to revive its adorable, legendary (adoregendary?) kei-class convertible, the Lilliputian Beat, this time with motorcycle technology.
The last Beat was built from 1991 to 1996 and featured a 650cc engine in the middle, three cylinders, 63 horsepower, rear-wheel drive, and a name that endlessly amuses Westerners. The next Beat, however, will presumably be bigger than that. It will also feature a dual-clutch transmission—for the first time in a Honda—borrowed from the “Shamu” VFR1200F, and attached to a 1.3- or 1.5-liter VTEC four-cylinder.
Rumors have it that the car would resemble the OSM concept shown above and also share a chassis on the CR-Z, which might diminish some of the Beat’s original tiny cuteness. As long as it’s not saddled as a hybrid, the next Beat should still be fun. Gotta Beat ’em while you can, Honda.
[Source: AutoExpress]
More by Blake Z. Rong
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Very cool, I can't wait for this car to come out. I have always like the Beat going way back to the 90's, Not sure if you guys used the correct image though, that really reminds me of a CR-Z prototype not a Beat but who knows. I saw a few cool prototype photos over at http://www.hondabeatforums.com also. This car is going to be awesome!