The CR-Z has not been one of Honda's best selling vehicles. To combat this, it seems that Honda is giving the sporty hybrid a much-needed refresh.

The 2016 model features significant upgrades and improvements that may lead to an increase in sales.

The 2016 Honda CR-Z's front fascia will be getting a new and more sculpted look. The front of the car will have "wing-like lip" supporting the grille and flares around the fog lights. LED headlights will be included only in the Japan-made vehicles, as U.S. manufacturers passed on the LEDs to keep production costs low.

The wheels have also been redesigned and now features 17-inch alloy wheels.

In terms of interiors, the start button has been given a new look. Honda has also updated the vehicle's stereo and entertainment system. There is a new touch panel audio screen, a new sound system and an engine amplifier to produce revving sounds when users step on the gas. There is also a noise cancellation feature that aims to reduce road noise.

The 2016 model also features an improved brake. The lever-style parking brake has been replaced with an electric park brake. In place of the manual handbrake, the car now has an armrest. The disc brakes have been upgraded to 15 inches, having previously been only 14 inches.

Honda's sports hybrid vehicle retains its 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and its small electric motor, which when combined, deliver 100kW and 190 N of torque.

Honda's Chief Engineer, Terukazu Torikai, hopes that the redesign will push more consumers into purchasing the environmentally friendly car. "It basically has no competitors, it the only sports hybrid," Torikai said.

Despite demands for a non-hybrid version, Honda has announced that there are no plans in releasing an all-gasoline variant.

Automotive News reports that the revamped vehicle will be launched in Japan by October this year and will arrive in the U.S. the following month.