After teasing us with several concepts, Honda is finally showing the production version of its Honda CR-Z hybrid at the 2010 Detroit show. Billed by Honda as a sporty hybrid and a spiritual successor of sorts to its CR-X two-seat sport compact, the CR-Z is set to launch next February in Japan and late 2010 in the U.S.From a recently leaked Japanese brochure, we can guess that -- at least in some markets -- the CR-Z will accelerate from 0-62 mph in 9.7 sec thanks to its 1.5L 113-hp four-cylinder with 107 lb-ft of torque and a 13-hp electric assist with 57 lb-ft of torque. Honda's IMA hybrid system -- motor, battery, electronics -- will be like the system on the Insight, as will the platform, to save cost.
Upgraded from the Insight's 41 mpg 1.3 liter unit, one source close to Honda indicated we can expect somewhere around 32-35 U.S. mpg from the new coupe.
Helping the front-drive CR-Z to achieve that kind of mileage will be the hybrid world's first six-speed manual gearbox, which Honda engineers have fitted to generate the best mileage possible while at the same time injecting more fun into the driving experience of hybrids. And anything that spruces up the thrill factor of piloting a hybrid is welcome news to us.
A senior engineer we talked to said of the CR-Z's mission: "It must be fun to drive, must remind you of the original CR-X." And a manual gearbox will be offered. "CVT is fine for the market, mostly. But we are Honda! We must have a manual!"
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