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REINVENTING A CLASSIC? – 2011 HONDA CR-Z HYBRID

Ahh yes, the Honda CRX. Who could get these tiny, late 1980s – early 1990s go-cart-like cruisers. They were super light, somewhat fun to drive, quite efficient , and to some are “drivers car.” Fast forward a couple of decades and we have the 2011 CRZ, a gasoline-electric hybrid.

The original CRX is about 145 inches whereas the CRZ is around 161 inches. The difference here is not much. However, the new CRZ is quite heavy compare to it’s older brother. The CRZ sits around 2700lbs and the CRX is around 1800lbs. But, keep in mind the old CRX didn’t come with airbags or all the safety improvements. The CRZ is fitted with the same Honda Fit, 1.5L 4cyl engine that cranks out about 113hp. It is also paired with a hybrid system seen in the Honda Insight, which is compose of a nickel-metal hydride battery pack and a 13hp electric motor. Having electric hybrid technology, you would think great gas mileage right? However, test drive reviews shows otherwise. There is no wow factor for the CRZ if you want the most mpg form a hybrid of this size. While Honda tries to bring fun to the hybrid market,  It only gets about 30mpg city and 37mpg freeway so your better off with the Insight. If you take away the sportiness and the cool led lights, you are left with a down-graded Insight.

So is this a hit or miss? I just wish it wasn’t a hybrid. Maybe then, Honda can legitimately market it as a sports car. Maybe there will be a CRZ Si in the future without the hybrid option and maybe even turbocharged. The hybrid system does nothing but add weight. My guess is that it would be a miss. I give it about 4-6 years tops.

Here are some more detailed specifications for the up coming CR-Z hybrid:

TRANSMISSIONS: continuously variable automatic with manumatic shifting, 6-speed manual

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 95.9 in Length: 160.6 in
Width: 68.5 in Height: 54.9 in
Curb weight (mfr’s est): 2600–2700 lb

FUEL ECONOMY (MFR’S EST):
EPA city/highway driving: 31–35/37–39 m

Trims:

CR-Z, base

  • 1.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with IMA (Integrated Motor Assist)
  • 122 horsepower total
  • 128 lb-ft of torque
  • 36/38 mpg city/hwy for the CVT
  • 31/37 mpg city/hwy for the 6-speed manual
  • 3-mode Drive System – Sport/Normal/Economy
  • Vehicle Stability Assist w/ Traction Control
  • 160-Watt AM/FM/CD Audio System
  • USB Interface/MP3 Aux Input Jack [read: iPod]

CR-Z EX

Adding to or replacing features of base CR-Z above

  • Bluetooth HandsFreeLink
  • Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System
  • High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights
  • Fog Lights
  • 7-speaker 360-Watt AM/FM/CD Premium Audio System

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