2012 Honda CR-Z - The CarWoo! Chronicle

Driving Honda’s sport-hybrid technically means that you’re enjoying responsible fun. Welcome to adulthood. The Honda CR-Z, part economically correct, part ‘sports car,’ represents the evolutionary result of the CR-X’s namesake and Insight’s dynamics. And the distinction here is that CR-Z is a hybrid sports car, so it’s more focused on saving gas & cash than recording a winning ¼ mile time. Still, it’s nice to know that this 2-seater provides enough of a traditional experience to make drivers actually want to get in and take advantage of the better economy.

Here’s what to expect from the 2012 Honda CR-Z: Or you can configure one for yourself today.

Honda CR-Z Trims and Features

CR-Z is available in 2 trims, base CR-Z (from $19,545) and CR-Z EX ($21,105), with EX gaining foglights, a leather wrapped steering wheel/shift knob, upgraded sound, and Bluetooth. EX trims also have a voice activated navigation option. Right away drivers will notice that CR-Z isn’t the best family car in the world- that’s also why it made the best car for singles list. For 2, however, it’s business as usual. From the outside, you’ll appreciate Honda’s design to reflect a future that’s not quite here yet, but it’s nice to know that CR-Z has followed that unique hybrid look. From the rear it’s all hatchback, and upon opening up you’ll find what Honda calls its ‘expansive’ cargo area- translated you’ll receive 25.1 cubic feet behind the seats with the rear cargo holder down; upright the cargo holder contains two storage bins for extra stuff.

Honda CR-Z performance

Each CR-Z is powered by a 1.5 liter 4-cylinder gas engine teamed with an electric motor and nickel-metal hydride battery. The result of this clean energy combo is a total of 122 HP and 128 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s not exactly prolific, but a standard 6-speed manual transmission makes for a more involved experience so that you can take advantage of each of the 122 horses. The other transmission option is the continuously variable transmission, or CVT, which makes CR-Z an automatic with Paddle Shifters.

Making for a more personable experience, the 3-Mode Drive System allows drivers to control the desired preference of CR-Z performance; simply press SPORT, NORMAL, or ECON mode and CR-Z will adjust to drive in the chosen style.

Fuel Economy

The CVT transmission will drop total torque output to 123 lb.-ft. but gains economy with an EPA estimated 35/39/37 MPG. 6-speed manual CR-Zs receive 31/37/34 MPG.

Honda CR-Z up front

The dash is where it’s at. Along with the 3-Mode Drive System, CR-Z owners will have access to Honda’s Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ and Bluetooth (EX trims) along with the USB Audio Interface. And the dash provides driver feedback in the form of Eco Assist when in ECON mode, to let you know whether you’re being detrimental to the environment or making wildlife smile.

Honda CR-Z Safety

2012 CR-Z standards include 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, stability/traction control, and a standard airbag setup featuring front, front-side, and side curtain bags. Active head restraints help to minimize passenger injury. Government crash tests gave the 2011 CR-Z 3/5 stars overall, and the unchanged 2012 model looks to be adding up similar, with 5/5 stars for rollover damage, and 3/5 for side impacts so far.

Honda CR-Z, impractically practical?

For a 2-door, 2 seat hybrid to take off with so many fuel efficient competitors lurking it’s gotta be special. Having the Honda badge doesn’t hurt, but is CR-Z something more than a niche? While it may not be at the epicenter of a revolutionary trend, CR-Z’s emphasis is on getting past the boredom of clean driving and in this respect, it’s a success. And remember that CR-Z is still just a baby; 2011 was its introductory year. Here’s hoping that Honda’s sport-hybrid grows into itself so drivers can look forward to more good clean fun.

You can buy a new CR-Z on CarWoo! today.