2016 HONDA CR-Z – LOOKS AGGRESSIVE AND SPORTIER THAN ANY PREDECESSOR’S

The previous review of the CR-Z model was delivered by Honda in 2013, so the automaker thought it was time of the next. This time, fanatics will have the opportunity to buy the improved version of the two-door hybrid model in the Asian and North American markets. Certainly, it is good to see that it was renewed because we loved the CR-X models of the 1980s that were the predecessors of the CR-Z models and the first CR-Z models of 2010.

The only thing that disappointed us six years ago was the fuel economy, which was inappropriate for a hybrid model and was clearly overwhelmed by other green cars.

The model was saved by the fact that the hybrid market was not as competitive as it is today, so it happened as the fourth most sold hybrid in the United States. Believe it or not, Prius was left behind.

However, in the new version, the automaker has eliminated some disadvantages of previous models, such as poor fuel economy, and gave the vehicle a new style, an efficient engine, premium features and many other changes. If you are a fan of notifiable two-door hatches, read below for more information.

Outside style

The body of the new Honda CR-Z 2016 has been provided a series of elements that make it more aggressive and modern.

For example, the front grid has received a more angular form and the bumper has been added with a component similar to a blade, which extends to the lateral jacks, made triangularly.

The designers are completely rejoiced below the areas of air intakes so that the vehicle looks more like the Honda Civic Type R model.

 At the rear end, the recess of the enrollment plate was also changed to resemble the shape of the front grid. Among other significant changes abroad is the sports diffuser that has three pieces and a bumper with an improved width.

In general, the exterior of the new CR-Z is aggressive and more sporty than any predecessor.

INTERIOR DESIGN

There are a number of remarkable changes found in the cabin of the vehicle, including front panels, new materials for door handles and central console.

The last element has been specially highlighted by the automaker because it provided more space for storage in the compartment and a more comfortable armrest solution.

This clearly says that Honda tries to improve the comfort characteristics of the CR-Z, which is good because the predecessor cabin contained many elements that limited space, such as the traditional level of the parking brake.

It was removed to be replaced with the new electrical brake that certainly erased more space and allowed to increase the volume of charge and volume of passengers at 25.1 cu ft and 49.1 cu ft respectively. In addition, the steering wheel is now wrapped with leather and heated, which could also be said about the seats.

The automaker has also dealt with customer’s high-tech needs. All CR-Z alignment will have a series of advanced functions, such as smart input, start button, 7-inch touch screen display, voice recognition, navigation system and many more.

The Infotainment screen works like a tablet and has very crispy and vivid graphics to show numerous data for the driver and the passenger. For music needs, the occupants of the cab can use the premium sound system that has been installed on many current Honda models.

According to the manufacturer, the model will also get the Honda Lane clock system that allows you to see a wide-angle image of the passenger side road.

However, only premium cuts will get this function as standard, such as EX and EX-L. The latest version will also be equipped with the latest satellite navigation and the digital traffic system.

Powertrain

To our surprise, the manufacturer has decided to go with the previous generation motor train that includes the combination of the four-cylinder gas unit of 1.5 liters and 15-kW electric. The latter is driven by the same 144-volt lithium ion battery.

However, there are some new innovations provided. For example, the electric unit can act as a generator during braking and coast, thus capturing the energy to feed the battery through a new system.

Despite this addition, CR-Z performance figures remain unchanged.

Specifically, the two motors generate the same power 130 and 140 lb-ft of torque. This translates into the maximum speed of 125 miles per hour and the ability to reach 60 miles per hour in 9.2 seconds with automatic transmission and 8.8 seconds with a manual. CR-Z drivers will have the opportunity to choose between the three primary drive modes: Eco, Normal and Sport.

In terms of fuel economy, the vehicle needs 36 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the road with automatic transmission, while the manual unit decreases these indicators at 31 and 38 respectively.

Unfortunately, this generation of CR-Z will not be faster than the previous ones, even with the most sporting aspect of the story. Perhaps, Honda intends to obtain competitive advantage by providing a hybrid motive train and a unique aspect.

Safety features

According to the manufacturer, the model was built into the structure of the advanced compatibility engineering body that is effective to protect passengers and the driver in case of a frontal collision. In addition, it has been designed to mitigate potential injuries to pedestrians.

The list of other security features includes numerous air bags, tire pressure monitoring system, multi-angle rear camera, traction control system, vehicle stability assistance, anti-lock braking system and occupant position detection unit . Premium clipping levels, such as EX and EX-L, will have some advanced features, such as the Honda Lane clock system.

Honda prices CR-Z 2016

Compared to the model of the previous year, the basic adjustment of the last CR-Z with a manual gearbox increases the price to reach $ 29,290. The version with automatic transmission will cost around $ 20,940.

A more advanced finish will also be provided with automatic and manual transmissions, whose prices will begin at $ 22,140 and $ 22,790 respectively.

The most expensive version of CR-Z, the EX-L Navi TRIM, will begin from $ 24,440 with manual and $ 25,050 with automatic transmission.