The vehicle’s lines are reminiscent of the Honda Civic CRX, a car popular with teens and young adults in the 1990s. Honda is likely targeting this same audience with the “not your mom’s hybrid” design of the CR-Z. The CR-Z is a two-passenger coupe that comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The availability of a manual transmission not only speaks to the younger, sportier driver but it is also a first for any mass-produced hybrid vehicle.
The CR-Z will be available in two models—the base model as well as the CR-Z EX. Unlike many base models available on the market today, the entry level CR-Z comes well-equipped with an AM/FM/CD/USB sound system, automatic climate control, remote entry, cruise control, and power windows and locks. The CR-Z EX features an enhanced audio system and Honda’s Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition.
Although the CR-Z is a 4-cylinder hybrid, the EPA fuel efficiency estimates aren’t anything to write home about. The six-speed manual version has a 31-mpg city rating, a 37-mpg highway rating and a combined fuel efficiency of only 34 mpg. The automatic transmission provides a little more fuel efficiency with ratings of 35/39/37 respectively.
For more information about the availability of a 2011 Honda CR-Z, contact your local Honda dealership.
Melissa Hincha-Ownby blogs about the latest in green biz for the Mother Nature Network.