First up is the drivetrain. The European-spec 2013 CR-Z features more power than last year, though its 1.5-liter engine and electric motor combo are just as clean and fuel efficient. A new engine computer and revised variable valve timing conspire to bump horsepower from 114 to 121. A lithium ion battery pack – a first for the CR-Z – and revised electric motor add another 20 horses, up from 114 in 2012.
Combined, Honda rates its 2013 CR-Z at 137 metric horsepower (a 13-horse boost) and 140 pound-feet of torque (up 16). The run to 60 mph drops 0.7 seconds to 9.0 flat, with top speed sitting at 124 miles per hour. To help the driver harness the extra horses, Honda has fitted the 2013 CR-Z with a new Plus Sport button on the steering wheel, and if the battery is at least 50-percent full, a push of the S+ button engages additional electric boost for up to ten seconds.
On the outside, the 2013 CR-Z is chiefly identifiable by its redesigned fascia, grille and headlamps with LED strips. At the rear, a new diffuser is a subtle update. Inside, Honda has switched up the fabrics and textures and has added LED lighting.
Fuel mileage stands pat at 56.4 miles per gallon on the European combined cycle; we’ll have to wait for official U.S. figures from the EPA, which we ought to have before the 2013 CR-Z goes on sale in January. Check out our live gallery above and the official press release below.
Honda has updated the sporty CR-Z hybrid with a range of improvements focusing on style and performance. Subtle revisions to the exterior and interior enhance the styling of the car whilst the power of both the petrol engine and electric motor has been increased without comprising fuel economy or increasing exhaust emissions. The car also features a Lithium Ion battery for the first time. The revised CR-Z will go on sale in January 2013.
The 2013 CR-Z can be identified by a range of styling upgrades that emphasise the coupe’s sporty appeal. Style conscious motorists will appreciate the CR-Z’s new front bumper design, which frames a revised grille. This is complemented at the rear by a new aerodynamic diffuser design, while striking 17inch alloy wheels fill the wheel arches of the GT model. Two bold new colours, Energetic Yellow and Aurora Violet, further enhance the CR-Z’s stylish looks. Honda has updated the hybrid’s interior with a new colour scheme, while revisions to the door casings improve cabin storage.
The CR-Z’s 1.5-litre petrol engine has been updated with changes to the variable valve timing system and Engine Control Unit (ECU). An anti-vibration knock sensor has been introduced and the material of the crankshaft has been upgraded. The peak power output has been increased from 114 PS to 121 PS.
The electric motor system has also been improved. The change from a Nickel-metal hybrid (Ni-MH) to a Lithium Ion battery has been accompanied by an increase in power from 14 PS (10 kW) to 20 PS (15 kW).
Working in unison, the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system now delivers a combined output of 137 PS at 6600 rpm (+13 PS) and 190 Nm of torque (+16 Nm). The 0-62 mph sprint time falls from 9.7 sec to 9.0 sec and top speed is 124 mph. The combined consumption is 56.5 mpg and 116 g/km of CO2.
To help the driver make the best use of this sporty performance, Honda has introduced a Plus Sport (S+) boost system. If the battery is more than 50 per cent charged, the driver can activate this system using the S+ button on the steering wheel. When the accelerator is pressed the electric boost begins, delivering increased acceleration for up to ten seconds. A flashing gauge on the dashboard indicates when the system is active. S+ can be used in ECON, Normal or Sport modes.
The revisions to the 2013 CR-Z enhance its sporty appeal without compromising its impressive fuel economy and low exhaust emissions.
Technical Specifications
ENGINE 1.5 SOHC i-VTEC
4 valves per cylinder
Bore x stroke mm 73 x 89.4
Capacity cc 1497
Compression ratio 10.4 (Honda internal figure)
Max. Power (Engine) kW/PS 89/121
@ rpm 6600
Max. Torque (Engine) Nm 146
@ rpm 4800
Max. Power (Electric Motor) kW/PS 15/20
@ rpm 2000
Max. Torque (Electric Motor) Nm 78
@ rpm 1000
Max. Power (Combined)* kW/PS 101/137
@ rpm 6600
Max Torque (Combined)* Nm 190
@ rpm 1000-2000
Fuel system Honda PGM-FI Electronic Injection
Fuel rating Unleaded, 95 RON
FUEL CONSUMPTION (1999/100/EC) 1.5 SOHC i-VTEC
Urban mpg 47.1 (Sport) / 46.3 (GT)
Extra Urban mpg 64.2 (Sport) / 60.1 (GT)
Combined mpg 56.5 (Sport) / 54.3 (GT)
CO2 emissions g/km 116 (Sport) / 122 (GT)
PERFORMANCE
Top Speed mph 124
Acceleration 0-62 mph sec 9.1 (Sport) / 9.5 (GT)
WHEELS AND TYRES
Wheels 16x6J (Sport) / 17×6.5J (GT)
195/55R16 (Sport) / 205/45R17 (Sport)
* Combined power and torque figures are not the sum of the maximum figures for engine and motor. Because the engine and motor generate their peak figures at different rev ranges, the maximum figure is less than the two peaks and this gives a better spread of power and torque.
