Honda Launches China-Only Crider Sedan

Honda Motor Co. has begun selling the Crider, its first model designed specifically for the Chinese market.

The heavily sculpted family sedan is virtually identical to the concept version Honda unveiled in April at the Shanghai auto show. The $18,900 car, which is 183 inches long, 69 inches wide and 59 inches tall, slots into the company's lineup between the Civic and larger Accord.

Honda says it developed the Crider (the name rhymes with "rider") to appeal to customers born in the 1980s, who company says are known for the "energetic pursuit of their dreams." The swoopy exterior was inspired by the image of a dragon, according to the company.

The Crider is powered by Honda's 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes 137 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can choose between a standard five-speed manual and optional five-speed automatic transmission. The two powertrain configurations have Chinese fuel economy ratings of 36 mpg and 35 mpg, respectively.

Honda said previously that it intends to introduce five China-specific models over the next three years in a bid to double annual sales in that country to 1.3 million vehicles by 2015.