Honda has developed a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s also equipped with the automaker’s signature VTEC variable valve timing technology. The engine made its debut in the 2015 Civic Type R, where it’s tuned to deliver a substantial 305 horsepower. Less potent versions of the engine are planned for other applications, one of which may be the next-generation CR-Z.

Yes, despite its underwhelming performance and unsurprising lack of success in the new car market (the CR-Z has already been pulled from the Australian and European markets), a successor is planned. We’ve previously heard that this second-generation CR-Z will share much in common with the latest Civic Type R, including the new turbo VTEC engine, and now we have a few more details courtesy of Auto Express.

The British publication is reporting that the new CR-Z is due in 2017, and that it will still be a hybrid. The car is said to benefit from a shortened version of the Civic Type R’s platform and feature a three-door body similar to that found on the current model. This may explain why Honda went with a five-door body for its latest Civic Type R instead of the usual three-door configuration.

The engine’s output will reportedly be capped at around 280 hp for application in the new CR-Z, but extra oomph should come from the hybrid system. Considering the latest Civic Type R is already the fastest front-wheel-drive production car around the Nürburgring, with a lap time of 7:50.63, the new CR-Z may see the record fall further.

A concept version is tipped to be revealed next year, with the production version to follow in early 2017. Interestingly, the car is said to getting the “Civic Coupe CR-Z” name for the U.S. market.

Stay tuned for an update.

_______________________________________

Follow Motor Authority on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.