Honda's hot CR-Z will be a hybrid 18 | 03 | 2011

HONDA IS TO introduce a high-performance hybrid. The CR-Z hybrid — essentially a hybrid Type-R — will make its world debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. 
Using a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine and the Honda IMA system to boost power and torque, the petrol-electric hybrid will also be fitted with bespoke brakes and suspension to improve the chassis dynamics.

Developed by Mugen Euro – the Northampton-based subsidiary of Honda’s long standing tuning partner Mugen — final power, torque and fuel economy figures are not yet known. 
It's expected though that the major engine changes, and those made to exhaust and induction, may even result in greater mpg and lower CO2 emissions during some conditions

Lightweight components, including a carbon fibre bonnet, will be use to lower the overall weight, and the car will use Mugen alloy wheels to reduce unsprung mass. To improve aerodynamics and give the car an even more sporting look, Mugen body parts will be added, including front and rear bumpers, and a spoiler.


“We wanted to extend the performance of the CR-Z,” Hiro Toyoda of Mugen Euro said. “It is already a fun car to drive, with an excellent chassis, but we thought that with more power and enhanced torque delivery it could be even more exciting. However, as with all Mugen projects, we have stayed true to the Honda design and philosophy, and the electric motor is still a vital ingredient to boost performance and economy.”

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Jim McGill