If you’re a future hybrid owner who doesn’t want to just go with the flow by purchasing a Prius, you may want to consider the Honda CR-Z. Join host Jessi Lang as she reviews the 2011 Honda CR-Z hybrid. Besides the distinct styling and environmentally-friendly aspects, the CR-Z throws in a twist by offering a 6-speed manual transmission in addition to the CVT automatic.
The transmission, whether you choose manual or automatic, is paired to a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) that produces 122 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. There are three driving modes: Normal, Eco, and Sport. Normal and Eco live up to their names but when you hit the Sport button there is a noticeable change with the tightening in the throttle, steering, and shifting. Thanks to the low center of gravity and the agile ability of the CR-Z, it pairs the hybrid functionality to nimble driving very well.
The interior is laid out with the driver in mind. The instrument cluster is similar to that of the 2011 Honda Insight hybrid. The gauges change colors based on your driving efficiency and the display shows data for real-time fuel consumption with trip comparison if you take your fuel efficiency seriously. With 31 mpg city and 37 mpg highway (slightly better if you have the automatic transmission), no matter the mode, you can expect good mpg averages.
We had the base model CR-Z that starts at $19,200 but after the standard destination fee, the final price came in at $19,950. For a stylish hybrid with a little bit of sport in its blood, the only downside to the CR-Z is the large blind spots, but with fuel economy in the mid-30s and a price tag under $20,000, it is a hybrid that will be hard to ignore.
10x for the nice review!
I am in love with this car 😉