Honda’s 2011 CR-Z hybrid coming in time for summer. Honda Motor Co. showed off the production model of the 2011 CR-Z, a sporty two-seater hybrid at the Detroit auto show Monday.
A two-seater, powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine working in tandem with a 10-kilowatt electric motor will be available with either a six-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. The CR-Z will be assembled in Japan.
The new CR-Z will get 36 city miles per gallon and 38 highway mpg, according to Honda’s preliminary estimates. That’s below the fuel economy of its flagship hybrid, the Insight. It’s also less efficient the 2010 Prius, which gets 51 city/48 highway mpg, according to the EPA.
“The CR-Z is a personal sport hybrid coupe for people with a spirit of adventure and an elevated sense of responsibility toward the environment,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda.
The CR-Z, first shown as a concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show in October, hits showrooms this summer, Mendel said. He declined to give pricing, but said it would be priced higher than the Insight, which lists at just under $20,000. The company is hoping to sell 10,000 of the vehicles, he said.
When the CR-Z goes on sale in late summer, it will be available in base and EX trims. Base models include stability control, a six-speaker audio system with USB connectivity, power windows, locks, remote keyless entry and cruise control. EX versions add xenon headlights, fog lights, a 360-watt premium sound system, Bluetooth, leather-wrapped steering wheel and center console with an armrest. Navigation is available on the EX.
John Mendel declined to provide a price range for the CR-Z, but he did say it would be priced slightly above the Insight, which has a base price of $19,800.