2010 Honda CR-Z Test Drive

Honda CR-Z Test Drive.

When the Honda CR-Z was first shown as a concept car, not very many people would have expected the CR-Z to actually make it to production. However, it is. The hybrid sports car that Honda has created is in a class of its own and is the very first sport hybrid on the market. You may be comparing the CR-Z with other smaller sports cars such as the Mini Cooper, but the CR-Z stands out in both styling and functionality.

You might notice that the CR-Z resembles the old Honda CRX, the late 80’s and early 90’s compact sports car that was very popular and you can still see driving around the road today. They styling of the CR-Z is reminiscent of the CRX, but also brings the modern smooth and sporty look. If you are wondering why the back of the CR-Z is so flat like the insight, it is due to aerodynamics. Having the flat back drop down from the roofline reduces drag and in turn provides more fuel efficiency and

performance.

The CR-Z is available in three different trim levels (or sub models with different features) the CR-Z base model will have most features. The EX model which is the next level up will add HID (high intensity discharge), if you’re not familiar with these they are the ultra bright white lights like those on BMWs and Audis) headlights which is a first for Honda, also included is Bluetooth, and more. The highest model available is the EX w/Navigation, this model just adds Hondas satellite navigation system. All models will come with USB audio interface for iPods and other mp3 players.

The CR-Z is a two seat sports car and with Honda discontinuing the S2000 after 2009 the CR-Z is now the only two seat car available from Honda. This is somewhat of a negative because both Japan and Europe are getting the CR-Z with rear seats. The US model however uses the rear for storage. Having passengers in the back would be extremely uncomfortable for the passenger and reduce performance on the CR-Z considerably in both power and handling.

The CR-Z looks great on the inside. All the gauges and buttons are styled and colored to be very futuristic looking as well as easy to find/use. The CR-Zs speedometer changes its background color depending on which mode you have the car in; normal, econ, or sport, I’ll get to the modes later on. The driver and passenger bucket seats are very comfortable and sporty feeling, unfortunately an armrest for the center console is an additional accessory; it would have been nice if t his feature was included with the car. A nice feature in the glove box is a vent that can be opened when the air conditioning is on to be used to cool drinks.

The storage space in the rear of the car is actually quite large. You have the hatch area, as well as the separated ‘back seat’ storage areas. You also have the ability to fold the ‘seats’ down to have a larger flat storage area in the back. All CR-Z models come with a retractable privacy cover which can be used in two ways. Either up above to cover your belongings or there is also a mount where you can use it as a divider.

The CR-Z is available in both an automatic CVT (continuously variable transmission) with paddle shifters and a six speed manual transmission. The CVT CR-Z has set ratios when using the paddle shifters to simulate gears and give you more control over your driving experience; there are seven set ‘gear ratios’ on the CV-T. The 6 speed manual transmission is geared to be sporty in gears 1-5 and the 6^th gear is reserved for economic highway driving. The manual transmission also features hill start assist; this will help drivers while starting on a hill by holding position for half a second while the driver switches their foot from the brake to the gas pedal.

Although 122 horsepower seems like far too little to be considered a sports car, keep in mind that the MINI cooper that most consider to be a sports car only has 118 horsepower. Also, the CR-Zs electric motor helps boost the CR-Z and provides an incredible amount of torque for a small engine. The manual transmission has 128 ft/lb of torque, a 5 ft/lb advantage over the automatic CVT with 123 ft/lbs.

All CR-Zs have the three different mode selectors. These modes again are normal, econ, and sport. The normal mode is well, normal. The car feels and handles like a normal Honda car would drive like, responsive, smooth, and comfortable. When you switch to econ mode the car limits its self. Your gas pedal becomes less responsive and your power is cut dramatically so you get the very best fuel economy possible. The sport mode unleashes the car. The throttle and steering become very responsive; the car feels completely different from the way it drives, it feels like a sports car.

Overall the CR-Z is a fun to drive car which doubles as an eco car. Honda has succeeded in creating a fun to drive two seat sports car. If you are looking for a more rich driving experience the manual transmission is probably for you. If you are looking for a car that can get you around and occasionally give you the thrill you want, then the CVT automatic will do more than plenty.

PROS

• FUN
• Responsive handling
• Economic
• Futuristic style

CONS

• Only seats 2
• Center armrest is additional