Honda CR-Z 2013 to debut in South Africa

2013 HONDA CR-Z

Racier, keener sports coupé still sets the hybrid pace

• Sharper styling emphasises real gains in driving dynamics
• Upgraded materials create smarter cabin
• More muscle from advanced IMA hybrid drivetrain
• Desirable combination of style, performance and driving pleasure
• Fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions still exemplary

Honda Motor Southern Africa has introduced an updated version of the ground-breaking CR-Z hybrid sports coupé. The dynamic two-door benefits from a series of improvements, aimed at creating an even more involving driving experience, while also adding further visual appeal.

Previewed at last year’s Paris International Motor Show, the revised CR-Z boasts subtle updates to the exterior styling and the interior execution. At the same time, the power output of the hybrid drivetrain has been increased, while fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions remain exemplary.

ENHANCED VISUAL APPEAL

A new front bumper, together with a revised grille and a panoramic glass sunroof, are among the key contributors to the 2013 Honda CR-Z’s sharper looks. The keener styling theme is continued at the rear, where a new, more aerodynamic diffuser design has been introduced.

Filling the sporty Honda’s sculpted wheel arches are brand-new 17-inch alloy wheels with a striking design that places further visual emphasis on the CR-Z’s athletic character. In addition, a new extrovert body colour – Premium Northern Lights Violet Pearl – has been added to the available palette of hues.

UPGRADED INTERIOR

The cabin has also undergone a series of subtle updates, including a new interior colour scheme, and leather upholstery for the sculpted bucket seats and the door panel inserts, creating a smart and sporty ambience. Standard features include Bluetooth, heated seats, rain-sensing wipers and auto headlights.

Revised door panel casings allow for improved storage space, while the cabin lighting now employs LEDs. These are not only more energy efficient, but also contribute to the latest CR-Z interior’s sophisticated mood.

MORE POWERFUL IMA DRIVETRAIN

However, perhaps the most significant improvements are to be found under the Honda coupé’s sleekly sculpted shape. While its advanced 1,5-litre petrol engine has been retained, this latest version employs a revised i-VTEC variable valve timing system, linked to an updated Electronic Control Unit (ECU). As a result, maximum power output has increased form the previous 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 (10,5 percent more than before) with an accompanying torque peak of 190 Nm (an improvement of 9,2 percent).

SIGNIFICANT PERFORMANCE GAINS

The power hike allows meaningful gains in performance. The 0 – 100 km/h sprint time improves from 9,7 sec to 9,0 sec, while top speed is 200 km/h.

Despite the improvement in the coupé’s sprinting capability, combined cycle fuel consumption remains impressive at 5,2 litres/100 km, while CO₂ emissions are pegged at an equally laudable 124 g/km

To maximise the full potential of the CR-Z’s IMA hybrid powertrain, a Plus Sport button has been added to the coupé’s multifunction steering wheel. It provides access to a new Sport Plus mode, available only when the battery charge is at more than 50 percent 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. It can be selected in all three driving modes offered by the trend-setting coupé: Eco, Normal and Sport.

A STRONG HYBRID PLAYER

“The 2013 Honda CR-Z further underscores Honda’s strength and innovation in the burgeoning hybrid car market,” says Graham Eagle, director of HSAF. “The additional output places even greater emphasis on the sporty hybrid’s dynamic prowess, with its impressively low emissions levels.

“In addition, the keener styling and upgraded interior contribute to hybrid motoring package that is both compelling and entertaining to drive – proof that eco-friendly cars can be exciting and satisfying, too,” Eagle adds.

PRICING AND WARRANTY

The 2013 Honda CR-Z is available through Honda’s national network of authorised automotive dealers. The retail price of R332 800 includes a three-year/100 000 km warranty, a five-year/90 000 km service plan and a one-year AA roadside assistance package. Services are at 15 000 km intervals.