SAN FRANCISCO -- Although it's no sports car, the Honda CR-Z may change some people's minds about just how sporty a hybrid vehicle can be.On the other hand, by giving the two-seater such a sporty appearance, Honda may be overstating how hot the CR-Z is.
The basics: For the United States, Honda made the CR-Z just a two-seater, whereas Japan and Europe get a plus-two version of a back seat.
Honda saved development costs by using the engine and much of the Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system from the Insight hybrid five-door hatchback. The CR-Z comes with a choice of a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic.
Notable features: To improve performance, Honda shaved weight in such places as the 16-inch wheels and by using forged aluminum lower control arms for the front suspension.
A "sport" mode provides a noticeable boost in power by monitoring throttle input. An "eco" mode cuts the power but sips gas. The federal fuel economy tests were done in "normal" mode.
The instruments have nice touches, like a 3-D speedometer and tachometer ring that glows green, blue or red depending on how cautiously or aggressively the CR-Z is being driven. The stereo is a six-speaker, 160-watt system with a USB port. Instead of two rear seats, the U.S.-edition CR-Z has an expanded cargo area that can be reconfigured.
Standard features include security system, variable wipers, LED brake lights, automatic climate control, cruise control and the usual traction and braking-assist technologies. Read more: http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100621/OEM01/306219987/1430#ixzz0rVl996GV
