New CR-Z Looks Great

galileo5 · 10-01-2009, 08:46 PM

Did you guys check out the CR-Z hybrid due out in 2010? They’re calling it the oxymoronic “sporty hybrid.”

I think it’s a great-looking car. I wish I had waited longer to buy this over my Gen II Insight, but I’m content with what I have. I can’t imagine myself in a sports car anyway, but it looks so fun to drive.

Was it announced what the MPG is going to be?

Sluday · 10-02-2009, 12:39 AM

Where is it????

CobaltDragon · 10-02-2009, 07:50 AM

I don't like it myself. It just looks like they took the I1 and modernized it a bit - and, I'm not a fan of the I1 to begin with, so this doesn't do much for me.

CobaltDragon · 10-02-2009, 07:51 AM

oh, and you can see it here, Sluday Honda CR-Z ? Hybrid Concept Car ? Official Web Site

adric22 · 10-02-2009, 09:06 AM

I think the CR-Z is an awesome looking car and I'd probably consider one myself, except I'm holding out for an all-electric like the Nissan Leaf.

The Beard · 10-02-2009, 10:26 AM

It looks FANTASTIC. I don't see it as an updated I1 at all. Sure it is a two seat hybrid hatch but the goal is very different. The original I1 was aimed almost solely at high mpg. The CR-Z is more akin to the much loved CRX - a small and fun to drive coupe.

That said, I'm not sure why the hybrid drivetrain is included. The predicted mpg is 32-35 mpg. They could have gotten that and more power with a regular gas engine. It seems to be a hybrid only because hybrids are popular right now.

Someone could buy a VW GTI, Mini Cooper, Volve C30, etc for only a little more money than the predicted price of the CR-Z and get a car with a lot more power/performance and still get admirable fuel economy. Sadly, I can't see the CR-Z drawing in any new blood to Honda showrooms. Honda faithful will like/love it but that's not going to sell a ton of cars.

Sluday · 10-02-2009, 11:40 AM

That car looks cool but I doubt it will not be a production model with those mirrors and door handles. Look at some of the other pictures. There is no way that model will roll off the line for $25-$30k. Is this is just a teaser model to get the public excited?

The Beard · 10-02-2009, 11:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sluday

That car looks cool but I doubt it will not be a production model with those mirrors and door handles. Is this is just a teaser model to get the public excited?

Aside from minor cosmetic changes (like the mirrors) this is what it will look like. This is how Honda always introduces cars. the last "concept" is 99% of what the production model will look like. Remember the Insight Concept?

EDIT - I just noticed no one posted a pic of the CURRENT concept model - Here it is

Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - Honda Announces Overview of Display for the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009

EcoMax · 10-02-2009, 11:51 AM

Beard, where did you see those mpg numbers?
I tried googling but only scanned about 3-4 pages.

I really like the looks of the current CR-Z concept. Can't wait to see new pics at the TAS.
I've owned 3 CRXs over the years, and even started an annual CRX meet out on the west coast circa '97-02, I liked them so much

I think the replacement is looking very nice....great lines.

I hope Honda gives the CR-Z some decent performance. I would definitely pick one up. Even the wife has agreed to sell her TSX and get the CR-Z when it arrives.

The Beard · 10-02-2009, 12:03 PM

They were in one of the threads on Temple of Vtec. I'm not sure exactly how accurate they are but that site is usually pretty close.

It said that it would have about 130 hp and get 32-35 mpg.

AutoExpress lists the HP estimate - Hybrid CR-Z turns up heat | Auto Express News | News | Auto Express

They also list 76 mpg but that is probably one of those European cycles that always look high.