2012 Honda CR-Z Review

Overview

The Honda CR-Z essentially is a carryover model for the model year 2012. The Honda CR-Z is a fun-to-drive, sporty and sleek two-passenger hybrid coupe with a 1.5-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine which works with Honda's unique, compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist (IMA). Its sport-focused six-speed manual transmission is a first for any hybrid. The driver can configure its responsiveness for Sport, Normal or Econ (Economy) driving modes. The CR-Z also includes driver-friendly Eco Assist and Eco Scoring for efficient driving. The CR-Z comes in two trim levels: Base CR-Z and the feature-rich CR-Z EX.

Power and performance

The CR-Z is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor paired with a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. The gasoline engine is rated at 112 hp and 107 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor pumps out 13 hp and 58 lb-ft. The maximum combined output is 122 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters is optional. All CR-Z models come with a three-mode drive selector consisting of Sport, Normal or Econ modes. *The 2012 Honda CR-Z returns with an impressive mileage of 35 city/39 hwy/37 combined for CVT models and 31 city/37 hwy/34 combined for 6MT models.

Body and styling

The Base CR-Z is equipped with automatic headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, manual seats with driver-side height adjustment, full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control and a six-speaker CD audio system (with steering-wheel controls and USB/auxiliary audio jacks). The CR-Z EX gets xenon headlights, fog lights, a 360-watt AM/FM/CD high-power audio system with seven speakers including subwoofer, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel and more. It is also available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition.

Safety Features

The Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure of the CR-Z protects the occupants in a frontal collision. The additional safety features include standard dual-stage, multiplethreshold front airbags; standard front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbags, active head restraints; an anti-lock braking system; vehicle stability assist with traction control, electronic brake force distribution; a tire pressure monitoring system; and a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle.