Honda debuted the American version of its CR-Z hybrid sports coupe at the Detroit Auto Show and will follow with the European version at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
Powered by Honda's 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine and parallel Honda IMA 10kW electric motor, the CR-Z is the world's first hybrid with a six-speed manual transmission.
Interestingly it also features a driver-sElect three-mode drive system which tailors steering, throttle response and electric motor assistance to the driver's needs. CR-Z drivers are able to choose between a sporty driving dynamic, maximum fuel economy or a combination of both.
The petrol engine delivers 91kW/174Nm while the electric motor provides 10kW/78Nm. The torque curve of the electric powerplant is quite flat with maximum performance at only 1500rpm.
Fuel consumption is rated at 5.0l/100kms and the exhaust emissions are just 117g/km.
It's a good looker and the shallow, raked roofline/short tail design provides optimum aerodynamics for enhanced fuel consumption.
While some chassis components are shared with the American market Insight model, the CR-Z is 295mm shorter and its wheelbase is 115mm shorter. The CR-Z runs lightweight forged aluminium MacPherson struts in its suspension rather than the pressed steel suspension of the Insight.
Inside is Honda's trademark two-level dashboard but information is presented in new 3D displays.
