One of the first hybrid cars manufactured by Honda is the CR-Z, which runs on a petrol-and-electric powertrain. It is a two-door coupe classed as a sport compact hybrid car. Its name stands for “Compact Renaissance Zero”, reflecting Honda’s desire for a renaissance’s makeover of their current “CR” theme line of autos.
The First Generation (2010-2016)
The engine used for the CR-Z is one of the cleanest fuel-burning vehicles on the market today. It is also worth mentioning that it is the only hybrid vehicle in its class that is available with a manual gearbox, although it is also offered with a CVT as another option.
Sales went on for six years, but production came to a halt in 2016. Although the initial turnout was executed well from 2013 to 2014, the ultimate decision to end production was due to low sales. In Australia, for instance, it performed in the market dismally with only 86 total units sold.
The CR-Z came with 1.5-litre i-VTEC SOHC I4 (LEA) petrol engine, which teamed up with an electric DC brushless MF6 motor (10 kW, 79 N⋅m). It was available in either CVT or 6-speed manual gearbox. The system generates a combined output of 90 kW and 174 N⋅m.
Tests done on the CR-Z showed a sprint time from standstill to 100km/hr of 10.5s and for a quarter-mile, 17.6s. Two other independent tests showed even better results of 8.3s and 8.8s for the 0-100km/hr.
Trim Levels
The CR-Z has three trim levels under the names of LX, EX, and EX with navigation. The LX trim is the base model with the least amount of accessories and features included. Vehicles with this package would typically be equipped with halogen headlights, keyless entry, LED taillights, and CVT paddle shifters. The EX and EX-L also offer further upgrades such as HID headlights, fog lights, upgraded audio system, and leather-wrapped steering wheel with aluminum trim. The only difference between the EX and EX-L is, the EX-L adds a touchscreen proprietary Navi console.
Safety Ratings
The CR-Z received a 5-star rating from the ANCAP upon its debut. It earned a 14.56 of 20 in the frontal offset category, 16 out of 16 for side-impact, and 3 out of 3 inbox reminders. The total of the safety tests awarded the CR-Z with a total of 35.56 out of 36 points.
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Author: Ashleigh McAllister