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Honda CR-Z MUGEN and Hybrid R Concept unveiled at SEMA

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Khatir Soltani
As reported by Honda

LAS VEGAS, Nev. - Twelve modified 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupes are featured prominently in the Honda booth at the 2010 SEMA Show, which opens today. As the first available sport hybrid, the CR-Z demonstrates new opportunities for vehicle personalization among the import tuner community. Several significant vehicles are being unveiled at the show, including a 2011 CR-Z equipped with MUGEN* accessories, the Honda Performance Development, Inc. (HPD) CR-Z Hybrid R Concept, the HPD CR-Z Racer and several vehicles equipped with Honda Genuine Accessories.

Honda CR-Z Mugen (Photo: Honda)

"With the CR-Z sport hybrid coupe, drivers can achieve the great efficiency of a hybrid car without giving up the fun that many demand from a sporty car," said Bruce Smith, vice president of Parts Operations for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The combination of greener practicality with style and fun makes this vehicle a perfect fit for young, environmentally conscious buyers looking to further personalize their cars."

A 2011 CR-Z equipped with MUGEN accessories is also being revealed, and Honda announced that in the spring of 2011, it will begin sales of a limited-edition MUGEN accessory kit for the vehicle. Limited to only 300 complete kits, the package includes: a full MUGEN body kit; a front grille; a rear wing spoiler; 17-inch "XJ" aluminum wheels; sport mats; a unique black aluminum shift knob and a billet aluminum oil-filler cap. Further, after purchase, each owner will receive a unique serial-number plaque designating each kit as one of 300 available. All of the painted parts will come color-matched to each of the five available CR-Z colors. Pricing details will be made available closer to the on-sale date.

Also unveiled today were two concept vehicles from HPD: the CR-Z Hybrid R Concept and the HPD CR-Z Racer. Though neither vehicle is intended for sale, HPD, Honda's North American racing company, was determined to demonstrate the potential of the CR-Z for both street and racing performance. Both vehicles share many performance enhancements, with the CR-Z Hybrid R Concept highlighting Honda-designed street styling and the HPD CR-Z Racer opting for serious racing capability. To demonstrate that capability, HPD will campaign two HPD CR-Z Racers at the 25 Hours of Thunderhill endurance race in December. HPD enhancements to both cars include: a turbocharger and upgraded IMA™ hybrid system, resulting in an estimated combined 200 horsepower and 175 lb-ft. of torque; performance clutch; limited-slip differential; ‘circuit-tuned' suspension; upgraded brakes and aerodynamic components.

Honda Hybrid R Concept (Photo: Honda)
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada