Honda’s latest model is a two-seat, hybrid-only sports coupe called the CR-Z. It’s the first hybrid sports coupe in the world—and Honda’s hoping it’ll be a smash with enthusiast drivers after an entertaining and environmentally-compelling mode of transportation. The CR-Z is even standard with a six-speed manual transmission, which is important when trying to sell sports car fans something green.
The CR-Z might be one of those quirky looking, ‘not-for-everybody’ Honda models like Element and Acura ZDX—though the tester drew in plenty of curious passersby on my watch. After inspection in parking lots and gas stations by the general public, your correspondent noted many mixed reactions. Some love the look, while others curl up their lips and frown. One young gentleman even said the CR-Z looked like a ‘cartoon wedge of cheese’, but was quickly scolded by his mother for being rude and pointing.
Love it or hate it, most everyone walking near Honda’s latest work moves in for a closer look at the unique machine.
Two-seat, high-tech cabin
The uniqueness carries on inside. Drivers hopping aboard the CR-Z’s cabin will find a very low seating position surrounded with contrasting colours, textures and materials. Covered storage is limited, but numerous cubbies and bins compensate adequately. Two compartments are available to store items where the rear seats would normally reside, and the cargo area is relatively generous too. The tester also got a folding partition for extra space, and a partial cover to keep more precious belongings out of sight beneath the rear hatch glass.
Included were Bluetooth, automatic climate control, power accessories, cruise control and air conditioning. Premium goodies like alloy wheels and xenon lights are standard, too-- as is a high-end stereo system with subwoofer. After all, green motoring is more fun while sharing your favourite tunes with those nearby.
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| It’s the first hybrid sports coupe in the world—and Honda’s hoping it’ll be a smash with enthusiast drivers. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |
The CR-Z might be one of those quirky looking, ‘not-for-everybody’ Honda models like Element and Acura ZDX—though the tester drew in plenty of curious passersby on my watch. After inspection in parking lots and gas stations by the general public, your correspondent noted many mixed reactions. Some love the look, while others curl up their lips and frown. One young gentleman even said the CR-Z looked like a ‘cartoon wedge of cheese’, but was quickly scolded by his mother for being rude and pointing.
Love it or hate it, most everyone walking near Honda’s latest work moves in for a closer look at the unique machine.
Two-seat, high-tech cabin
The uniqueness carries on inside. Drivers hopping aboard the CR-Z’s cabin will find a very low seating position surrounded with contrasting colours, textures and materials. Covered storage is limited, but numerous cubbies and bins compensate adequately. Two compartments are available to store items where the rear seats would normally reside, and the cargo area is relatively generous too. The tester also got a folding partition for extra space, and a partial cover to keep more precious belongings out of sight beneath the rear hatch glass.
Included were Bluetooth, automatic climate control, power accessories, cruise control and air conditioning. Premium goodies like alloy wheels and xenon lights are standard, too-- as is a high-end stereo system with subwoofer. After all, green motoring is more fun while sharing your favourite tunes with those nearby.
 |
| Drivers hopping aboard the CR-Z’s cabin will find a very low seating position surrounded with contrasting colours. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |