Honda CR-Z Hybrid – Photos & Spec

Three years after the original CR-Z concept was introduced at the 2007 Toyota Auto Show, Honda has finally unleashed the production Honda CR-Z Hybrid. 

The new Honda CR-Z is the world’s first sporty hybrid boasting stylish good-looks and a true driving experience thanks to its agile chassis, direct steering, low driving position and powerful 1.5L petrol-electric drivetrain.

It’s also a truly ‘green’ coupe boasting the latest Honda hybrid technology and low tailpipe emissions.

Sleek, Sporty Style

The exterior of the Honda CR-Z is instantly recognisable with its sleek design and classic iconic style. For those who remember the Honda CRX from the 1980’s, the two cars share an obvious resemblance with shallow raked roofline, truncated rear, split level glass hatch and aerodynamic styling. Thankfully the new CR-Z has had a 21st century re-think and boasts cleaner tailpipe emissions, excellent fuel economy and a more exciting drive.

For a true performance feel, the new CR-Z sit lows to the ground with a ground clearance of just 135mm. Enhancements have also been made to the springs and dampers to add a hint of sportiness and maximise driver enjoyment.

Improvements have been made to the chassis of the new CR-Z, sharing some components with the Jazz and Insight models but boasting a new wheelbase, track width and set up which are all unique to the coupe.

Luxurious & Futuristic

The futuristic driver-focused cabin in the new Honda CR-Z is inspired by the original concept model. Due to public demand, many of the interior features as seen in the CR-Z concept have been carried over including the 3D display, high-tech instrument binnacle, neon backlit buttons, leather stitched seats and sporty gear stick.

The plush sports seats in the CR-Z are available in cloth or full leather upholstery and ‘hug’ the driver to give extra support. Seating is designed in a 2 + 2 layout, allowing space for a child seat in the back if required. The CR-Z also boasts extensive interior space with 401 litres of boot space available when the rear seats are flattened and 19-litres of under-floor storage to keep valuables out of sight.

Power & Performance

The new 1.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid engine in the CR-Z is new to the UK market, producing 114PS and 145Nm of torque. It boasts a top speed of 124 mph and can accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds. It also is incredible fuel efficient thanks to the addition of the electric motor, creating a combined fuel consumption of 56.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 117g/km -  putting it in the low VED band C. The CR-Z is the first hybrid ever to have a sporty, 6-speed manual gearbox. 

Honda’s 3-Mode Drive

The new CR-Z has a unique 3-Mode Drive System that allows the driver to choose between three driving modes (SPORT, ECON and NORM) to adapt the car’s settings to maximise economy, enhance the driving experience or strike a balance between the two. The SPORT button sharpens the throttle response, provides more electric motor assistance and increases the weight of the power steering allowing the driver to enjoy the open road. The ECON mode maximises fuel economy, perfect for when you’re stuck in heavy traffic. At other times, the NORM function provides a balance between performance, economy and emissions, making it an ideal choice for most driving conditions. 

Equipment & Model Grades

All Honda CR-Z’s benefit from six airbags, active headrests, Vehicle Stability Assist and Hill Start Assist. All models also come with Climate Control, 6 speaker CD player, USB iPod link and an engine start button.

Trim levels include the S, Sport, GT and GT with Navi. The S grade gets heated door mirrors, electric windows, daytime running lights, Shift Indicator Light (SIL) and auxiliary socket. Sport grades get ambient lighting, alloy pedals, cruise control, multi function steering wheel, parking sensors and 240W premium audio system with boot-mounted subwoofer. Top grade GT models include full leather upholstery, heated front seats, panoramic glass roof and HID Xenon headlights.

Prices for the new Honda CR-Z start from £16,999 on-the-road.

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Donna Kelly

 

In other motoring new s…
> Citroen C5 goes green
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09/04/2010