Honda CR-Z CVT CVT smoothness for Honda CR-Z
- Honda’s renowned sports hybrid now available with CVT automatic
- Same sportiness with a more relaxing drive
The Honda CR-Z sports hybrid coupe is now available with CVT automatic transmission in South Africa. Following the facelift introduced in April 2013, the new CR-Z 1.5 i-VTEC IMA CVT complements the existing CR-Z 1.5 i-VTEC IMA manual – which is still the only hybrid vehicle in the world to feature a manual gearbox.
Featuring a conical pulley system with drive provided by an adjustable belt, the electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) allows for utterly smooth and relaxing driving dynamics. Aided by the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system, the 88 kW/ 145 Nm 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine continues to provide an exhilarating drive with a typically-Honda sense of excitement. Benefitting from more effective ratios than a conventional gearbox, the CVT is able to find the ideal transmission ratio to match engine speed, increasing fuel efficiency and boosting engine performance.
Without dulling the natural performance characteristics of the CR-Z, the CVT is operable in full automatic mode or a manual shift mode, which allows the driver to shift manually between virtual ‘gears’ either via the gear lever or shift paddles mounted to the steering wheel.
The IMA system which sees an electric motor sandwiched between the engine and transmission, links to a battery pack to provide a further 13 kW and 78 Nm, realising a total combined power output of 101 kW and a torque peak of 190 Nm. Just like the manual version, the new CR-Z CVT also features Sport Plus mode, which allows the driver to enjoy up to ten seconds of increased power under full throttle from the IMA system via the “S+” button on the steering wheel.
The drive mode selector button is also carried over from the manual CR-Z. The three driving modes allow the driver to choose how the CR-Z responds, in either Normal, ECON or Sport mode. ECON mode places emphasis on economical driving habits and prioritises fuel efficiency over engine performance, while Sport mode places emphasis on sporty, performance-oriented driving. The engine’s characteristics like throttle response and power delivery are also heightened in Sport mode for a sporty driving feel, in true Honda fashion. Normal mode provides an optimal balance between fuel-efficient driving and engine performance, perfect for most journeys.
While it remains a sporty hybrid coupe, the addition of CVT to the CR-Z has in fact improved its environmental credentials with average fuel economy dropping to just 4.9-litres per 100 km on the combined average. Performance values endure however, the 0-100 km/h sprint being completed in 9.9 seconds with a top speed of 198 km/h.
The new Honda CR-Z CVT features the same high level of specification as the existing manual model, which includes luxuries like a panoramic glass roof, LED daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control and Bluetooth, as well as safety equipment like ABS, EBD, EBA, VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist), ISOFIX child seat anchors and six airbags. Changes to specification include the introduction of a new paint colour – Premium Gold Purple Pearl, which replaces the existing Premium Northern Lights Violet Pearl.
How much does a Honda CR-Z CVT Cost in South Africa?
- 1.5 i-VTEC IMA Manual – R342 800
- 1.5 i-VTEC IMA CVT – R355 800
Prices include a 3-year/ 100 000 km warranty, a 5-year/ 90 000 km service plan and one year’s AA Roadside Assistance. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.
