2011 brings the Honda CR-Z Hybrid to showrooms
Honda is set to broaden its hybrid offerings for 2011, which includes the new 2011 Honda CR-Z — a well-styled 2-seat hatchback that puts as much of a focus on driving enjoyment as on fuel efficiency. It’s powered by a 122-horsepower 1.5-liter gasoline engine with estimates of 38 mpg highway. For more information, see your Honda Milpitas dealer.
The CR-Z’s 3-mode drive system switches the balance of performance and fuel economy, though it never lets go of its environmental mission. Each drive mode rings the tachometer in a different hue of neon light: green for economy, blue for normal and red for sport. When an up- or down-shift would help the car achieve better fuel economy, a light on the 3-D dash display in the manual version that alerts the driver. The Eco Assist feature also awards an “eco” score to encourage drivers to be more fuel-efficient.
Design-wise, the CR-Z’s teardrop body shape makes it clear the car is a hybrid, but it has a far more aggressive stance than other gas-electrics on the market. The bonnet and the engine and motor beneath it are both situated low for a more sporty performance. The double spoiler is in the front to provide better aerodynamics. With the push of a button, the rear cargo “console,” as Honda calls it, can be flattened, providing 25.1 cubic feet of space. The car also features improved the ergonomics, making it easy to operate the 360-watt stereo and satellite-linked, voice-activated navigation system.
At 160.6 inches long, the CR-Z is 16 inches longer than the original CRX and has a wheelbase about four inches shorter. Beyond the hybrid system, the CR-Z includes more features unavailable on the original CRX: airbags, crash-worthiness improvements, and thicker doors. The CR-Z is slated to go on sale in the US in the late summer of 2010. Honda expects volume of the CR-Z to be 15,000 per year, shared between the U.S. and Canada. And next in line is the Fit Hybrid, an adaptation of the current 2009 Honda Fit with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. It is rumored to go on sale sometime before the end of 2010.
For more on Honda vehicles, visit your Milpitas new car dealer.