This is a 2013 Honda CR-Z and it’s a hybrid car that is unlike most hybrid cars. That’s because it’s a hybrid with a manual transmission. It combines a gasoline-electric hybrid drivetrain with features typical of a sports car, including a standard six-speed manual transmission and a 2+2 seating layout.
source.image: Doug DeMuro
The CR-Z is powered by a 1.5 L i-VTEC SOHC 16-valve straight-four engine, designated LEA, with Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid-electric system. A six-speed manual transmission is standard equipment and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is available. The system delivers a combined peak output of 121 bhp.
CR-Z models have received an average rating for side crash safety, an excellent (5 out of 5 stars) rating for rollover, and a 4 out of 5 star rating for frontal crash safety for 2012 and newer models. The sporty hybrid’s unique styling has been enhanced with a revised front bumper with a deeper fog lamp surrounds and grille.
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The CR-Z’s distinctive styling – squat nose, long roof and high vertically cut tail, are all dictated by aerodynamics to reduce drag. The interior’s most notable feature is its space-age dash design, which is built around a large digital speedometer surrounded by an equally prominent analog tachometer. Adding a wow factor are background lights that change color to indicate driving style efficiency. A configurable display allows you to call up other useful information, including instant and average fuel economy readings.
