2013 Honda CR-Z Adds Power and Performance
Introduced at the 2012 Paris Motor Show in one of two new shades of exterior paint, Aurora Violet, the 2013 Honda CR-Z displayed a new front bumper and grille design, new LED running lights, new rear bumper, and redesigned 17-inch aluminum wheels. In addition to the paint color, European customers will be able to get a CR-Z with Energetic Yellow exterior paint.
Inside, the revised CR-Z offers improved storage solutions, LED cabin lighting, and updated materials, textures, and colors.
In addition to these design updates, the new 2013 CR-Z is equipped with a more powerful hybrid powertrain than before. Both the 1.5-liter, gasoline 4-cylinder engine and the new Lithium-ion battery pack contribute in this regard, and together they create about 135 horsepower and 140 lb.-ft. of torque, the latter available from 1,000 to 2,000 rpm. Final power figures for the U.S.-spec CR-Z will be available later this year.
In addition to the added power, the new CR-Z features a Plus Sport driving mode that can be activated whenever the battery has more than a 50% charge level. With Plus Sport engaged, the battery and electric assist motor deliver an acceleration boost for up to 10 seconds. This feature can be used in the CR-Z's existing Econ, Normal, or Sport driving modes.
According to Honda, the effect on acceleration results in 60 mph in 9 seconds. Additionally, the CR-Z's top speed rises to 124 mph due to the more powerful hybrid system.
Honda says the new CR-Z will be available in January of 2013.