Ever since the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show, we've been wondering if Honda really intended to build the sporty CR-Z. Now we see the production version at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show and the car is decidedly less sexy than the first few concepts. The front overhang is odd looking but it complies with more stringent front impact requirements.
The new CR-Z shares many components with the current Honda Insight but the idea is to make the CR-Z more fun. It is still a hybrid - the combined output of the 1.5 liter gas engine and the electric motor assist is 122 hp. Fuel economy is 31 mpg city, 37 highway with the manual transmission, but CVT models do better with a figure of 36/38 - a few tick off the Insights MPG. But a driver selectable sport driving mode should more than make up for any missed expectations in fuel economy.
Inside,there's automatic climate control, keyless entry, cruise control, a sound system with USB interface. EX models get HID headlamps, fog lights, Bluetooth, leather, and an upgraded 360-watt audio system. Sat/nav with voice recognition is optional.
Really, the CR-Z is like a combination of the original Insight and an old CRX. If that sounds appealing, you'll be able to pick a new Honda CR-Z up at your local Honda Dealer this summer.
-Brian Moody
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