Concept Cars: Honda CR-Z

Make	Honda
Model	CR-Z
Concept year	2009
Production year	2010
Engine	Hybrid

The Honda CR-Z concept which the company is set to reveal at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show is the pre-production prototype version of the car. The new CR-Z was initially revealed back in 2007 (see 2007 CR-Z Concept) in pure concept form, and although the styling is still quite similar, there are several changes which make the vehicle more production feasible.

First up the lines of the 2009 CR-Z concept are crisper and more defined than those of the original version. The windows have also increased in size, and the glass roof has been replaced with a conventional metal one. The original concept was fitted with rearview cameras instead of side mirrors, and unsurprisingly the production car will get the mirrors option. Other minor changes include revised grille shapes and more conventional headlights.

Despite the performance orientated looks the CR-Z is actually equipped with a fuel-economic parallel hybrid drivetrain. This system uses a combination of a 1.5 litre 4-cylinder engine, and an electric motor. The transmission is handled by a manual six-speed manual gearbox.

The Honda CR-Z is essentially going to be the 'sporty option' in Honda's hybrid vehicle lineup. And it will actually be one of the first sports orientated dedicated hybrid vehicles on the market.