Honda S.A. has introduced an updated version of the CR-Z hybrid sports coupé. The humble two-door hybrid benefits from improvements, aimed at creating a more involving drive and adding more visual appeal.
Previewed at last year’s Paris International Motor Show, the revised CR-Z boasts subtle updates to the exterior styling, such as the new front bumper, a revised grille and a panoramic glass sunroof. At the rear there is a more aerodynamic diffuser design too. Filling the wheel arches a little more convincingly are brand-new 17-inch alloy wheels with a sportier design. A new body colour, Premium Northern Lights Violet Pearl, has been added to the available palette.
The cabin has also undergone a series of subtle updates, including a new interior colour scheme, leather upholstery for the seats and the door panel inserts, creating a smarter ambiance. Standard features include Bluetooth, heated seats, rain-sensing wipers and auto headlights.
Perhaps the most significant improvements are to be found under the bonnet though. The CR-Z retains the 1.5-litre petrol engine has been retained, this latest version employs an updated ECU setting to up power by 5 kW. As a result, maximum power output has increased from 84 kW to 89 kW. The IMA hybrid drivetrain couples this petrol engine to an electric motor and a battery pack. The updated CR-Z now employs a lithium-ion battery instead of the previous nickel-metal hydride design. This has allowed the power output of the electric motor to be upped from 10 kW to 15 kW.
With both the petrol engine and the electric motor working in tandem, the IMA hybrid system is able to produce a combined total output of 101 kW (10% more than before) with an accompanying torque peak of 190 Nm. The power hike allows meaningful gains in performance. The 0 – 100 km/h sprint time improves from 9.7 seconds to 9.0 seconds flat, while the top speed is 200 km/h. The combined cycle fuel consumption is at 5.2 L/100 km, while CO2 emissions are at 124 g/km.
The Honda CR-Z IMA hybrid powertrain now also gets a Plus Sport button on the multifunction steering wheel. It provides access to a new Sport Plus mode, available only when the battery charge is at more than 50% of total capacity. The S+ mode provides instant access to the extra power boost provided by the electric motor for up to 10 seconds under full throttle. A flashing indicator in the instrument panel confirms when the S+ feature is active.
The 2013 Honda CR-Z retails for R332 800 includes a 3-year/100 000 km warranty, a 5-year/90 000 km service plan.
