Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mugen Ariel Atom... will it drift?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/mugen-ariel-atom-will-it-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/mugen-ariel-atom-will-it-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/mugen-ariel-atom-will-it-drift/#commentsFiled under: ,



Flip through the pages of CAR, EVO or Top Gear, and it's obvious the British motoring press has an unhealthy obsession with getting sideways. Not that we can blame them. We enjoy a healthy dab of oppo as much as the next guy, but when the Pistonheads hive-mind starts crying foul about opposite lock shenanigans, you know it's getting out of hand.

Despite this, AutoCar has started up its own version of Blendtec's puerile "Does it Blend?" series with Will it Drift?

After putting the latest BMW M5 to the test, next up is Mugen's interpretation of the Ariel Atom. But will its 270 horsepower four-pot be enough to overcome the R-compound rubber? And if it does, is the wheelbase too short to keep the slide going? Hit the jump to find out.

Continue reading Mugen Ariel Atom... will it drift?

Mugen Ariel Atom... will it drift? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arielariel atomariel atom mugenatomautocarmugenwill it driftMon, 23 Jan 2012 19:42:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155000/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/23/mugen-ariel-atom-will-it-drift/20155000/article-detail.xml 20155000 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/atom-drift-autocar-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/atom-drift-autocar-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda UK and Mugen launch supercharged CR-Z iCF]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/honda-uk-and-mugen-launch-supercharged-cr-z-icf/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/honda-uk-and-mugen-launch-supercharged-cr-z-icf/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/honda-uk-and-mugen-launch-supercharged-cr-z-icf/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Honda CR-Z iCF

While Honda doesn't have any plans to bring the carbon fiber-laced CR-Z Mugen RR to production, the company has announced that buyers in the UK will have the chance to pick up a quicker version of the hybrid hatchback. The Honda CR-Z iCF will boast a little over 172 horsepower thanks to some wrenching by Mugen Euro. The base 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine packs a centrifugal supercharger along with an intercooler and a remapped ECU. As a result, the dash to 60 miles per hour takes just 6.1 seconds. For reference, the base CR-Z hobbles to the same speed in well over nine seconds.

The Honda CR-Z comes from the factory with 122 horsepower, which is only adequate for hustling the 2,657-pound hybrid around town. The additional 50 ponies in the iCF should make the machine plenty entertaining, and Honda says that the vehicle's three drive modes have been maintained for the best fuel economy possible. Will we see something similar on our shores? Don't hold your breath. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading Honda UK and Mugen launch supercharged CR-Z iCF

Honda UK and Mugen launch supercharged CR-Z iCF originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 honda cr-zcr-zcr-z icfhondahonda cr-z icfmugenmugen euroTue, 29 Nov 2011 15:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20116780/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/29/honda-uk-and-mugen-launch-supercharged-cr-z-icf/20116780/article-detail.xml 20116780 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/honda-cr-z-icf-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/honda-cr-z-icf-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda CR-Z Mugen RR production hopes dashed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/08/honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-production-hopes-dashed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/08/honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-production-hopes-dashed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/08/honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-production-hopes-dashed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Honda Mugen CR-Z RR Hybrid Concept

If it's too early to start drinking, crack open a cold one anyway. You're gonna need a beer to cry into. Top Gear reports that Honda has no plans to produce the CR-Z Mugen RR Hybrid Concept. Zero. None. While we saw this coming a mile off, some deeply-oppressed optimistic shard of our psyche clung to the hope that Honda would awaken from its performance coma. Alas, no. The world will be denied the CR-Z it deserves.

We probably don't need to remind you that the CR-Z Mugen RR Hybrid Concept makes heavy use of carbon fiber. The doors, hood and front fenders are all formed from the lightweight material, as is a complete underbody tray. With 197 horsepower on tap, the concept clicks off a 0-60 dash in 6.6 seconds, and if you're restrained enough to run it in Eco mode, it can return somewhere in the neighborhood of 50 mpg.

Honda CR-Z Mugen RR production hopes dashed originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 08 Oct 2011 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-zcr-z mugen rr concepthondahonda cr-zhonda cr-z mugen rr conceptmugenSat, 08 Oct 2011 16:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20076438/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/08/honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-production-hopes-dashed/20076438/article-detail.xml 20076438 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-628.jpg <![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Honda Civic Type R... turbo?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/rendered-speculation-honda-civic-type-r-turbo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/rendered-speculation-honda-civic-type-r-turbo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/rendered-speculation-honda-civic-type-r-turbo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A new report says the next generation Honda Civic Type R should arrive in 2013 - sporting a turbocharged engine for the first time.

According to Auto Express, this hottest Honda hatch will brandish a Mugen-developed, 210-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo four. When we last reported on Mugen, their engineers were boring and stroking the 2010 Civic Type R to develop 256 naturally aspirated horsepower.

Temple of VTEC purists can thank strict European emissions regulations for the move to forced induction, and Auto Express says that the Type R will receive a start-stop system to further conserve fuel. Honda fan boys will still have plenty to get excited about: A six-speed manual tranny with a short-throw shifter, track-ready suspension, and a whole complement of aero aids. The UK-based magazine predicts 0-60 times in the low six-second range and a top speed near 150 mph.

The Type R's projected £23,000 price tag (minus the 20% national tax the Brits factor into their new car prices) would make it about a $28,000 car at today's exchange rates. But alas, since it's based on the European five-door Civic, there's virtually no chance we'll be seeing this Type R Civic on our side of the pond. For the moment, you'll have to content yourself with checking out the artist's renderings over on Auto Express.

Rendered Speculation: Honda Civic Type R... turbo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda civic type rciviccivic turbocivic type rctrhondahonda civicmugentype rWed, 05 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20074393/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/05/rendered-speculation-honda-civic-type-r-turbo/20074393/article-detail.xml 20074393 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2013-ctr-crop-250-1317829059_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2013-ctr-crop-250-1317829059.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen wrings out more power from Honda Civic Type R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/mugen-wrings-out-more-power-from-honda-civic-type-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/mugen-wrings-out-more-power-from-honda-civic-type-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/mugen-wrings-out-more-power-from-honda-civic-type-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

honda civic type r mugen

We'll go ahead and say it, America needs a Type R Honda. Badly. We're not getting one though, so we'll have to live vicariously through the rest of the world. The United Kingdom in particular has us especially jealous due to the healthy Honda and Mugen relationship it so enjoys. To rub a bit of salt in the red H badge-shaped wound, Mugen has announced a new hotted-up version of the Type R Civic.

Mugen had produced a 2.0-liter Type R variant in 2010, of which just 20 were built. Now Mugen is back with a new version powered by a turbocharged 2.2-liter four-cylinder motor, which produces 256 horsepower and nearly 180 pound-feet of torque. Add in the upgraded suspension bits, brakes and aero kit, and you have a Civic that is built to perform.

Mugen is still working out how many 2.2-liter Type R coupes it plans to produce. Of the 20 cars from 2010, four still remain, and it's possible that Mugen will upfit those with the 2.2-liter engine. Also, Mugen is considering an upgrade plan for owners of the 2.0-liter car. It's all being worked out, and, although we'll most likely never see a version Stateside, we're eager to hear what Mugen decides to do.

Continue reading Mugen wrings out more power from Honda Civic Type R

Mugen wrings out more power from Honda Civic Type R originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civiccivic type rhondahonda civic type r mugenmugenmugen civictype rtype r mugenFri, 09 Sep 2011 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20038322/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/09/mugen-wrings-out-more-power-from-honda-civic-type-r/20038322/article-detail.xml 20038322 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/001-honda-civic-type-r-mugen-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/001-honda-civic-type-r-mugen-628.jpg <![CDATA[More pics of Honda CR-Z Mugen RR released]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/02/more-pics-of-honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-released/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/02/more-pics-of-honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-released/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/02/more-pics-of-honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

honda cr-z mugen rr

Honda certainly loves showing off the CR-Z Mugen RR concept. We last saw the sporty hybrid idling quietly on Lord March's front lawn, showing off for the Goodwood Hillclimb crowds. Now, Honda has released a few more photos of a car it seemingly has no firm intention of building.

Mugen takes the standard car, which is surprisingly tossable, and throws a bunch of go-fast upgrades on it to transform it into the CR-Z Mugen RR. Carbon fiber bodywork and underbody tray, center-exit exhaust, forged 18-inch alloy wheels, four-piston calipers and a reworked suspension help turn this hybrid into the CR-Z we all wish it was in the first place.

Check out the latest photos in our gallery, and be sure to check out the full press release after the jump.

Continue reading More pics of Honda CR-Z Mugen RR released

More pics of Honda CR-Z Mugen RR released originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-zcr-z rrhondahonda cr-z mugen rrmugenmugen cr-zmugen rrTue, 02 Aug 2011 11:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20006711/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/02/more-pics-of-honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-released/20006711/article-detail.xml 20006711 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/003-honda-mugen-cr-z-rr-1312247456_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/003-honda-mugen-cr-z-rr-1312247456.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Fifth Gear</i> thrashes Honda CR-Z Mugen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/fifth-gear-thrashes-honda-cr-z-mugen/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/fifth-gear-thrashes-honda-cr-z-mugen/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/fifth-gear-thrashes-honda-cr-z-mugen/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mugen CR-Z Fifth Gear

When the crew at Mugen finally got around to turning out their take on the Honda CR-Z, we all got pretty excited. With 200 horsepower from the same 1.5-liter IMA engine and motor combination, 100 pounds less weight and a buffet of aftermarket go-fast, stick-hard and brake-harder goodies, the car looked to be what the CR-Z was supposed to offer from the get-go. Honda recently tossed the keys to the good people of Fifth Gear who set to putting the car through its paces in the rolling English countryside.

What'd they find out? While the Mugen CR-Z is decidedly quicker than its factory counterpart, the hatchback is also a bit more of a pain to live with. Stiff springs, an overzealous limited-slip differential and a buzz-happy exhaust make for a car that's more content on the race track than on public streets. Even so, there's little arguing with 200 horsepower in a flingable machine. Hit the jump to check out a video of Fifth Gear's impressions for yourself.

Continue reading Fifth Gear thrashes Honda CR-Z Mugen

Fifth Gear thrashes Honda CR-Z Mugen originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-zfifth gearhondahonda cr-zhonda mugen cr-zmugenmugen cr-zvideoThu, 21 Jul 2011 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19997029/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/21/fifth-gear-thrashes-honda-cr-z-mugen/19997029/article-detail.xml 19997029 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/fifth-gear-crz-mugen_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/fifth-gear-crz-mugen.jpg <![CDATA[Honda CR-Z Mugen compared with.... Ariel Atom Mugen?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/honda-cr-z-mugen-compared-with-ariel-atom-mugen/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/honda-cr-z-mugen-compared-with-ariel-atom-mugen/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/honda-cr-z-mugen-compared-with-ariel-atom-mugen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

auto express compares mugen ariel atom to mugen cr-z
Mugen vs Mugen - Click above to watch video after the jump

Mugen and Honda go together like vanilla ice cream and apple pie. Sure, the pie can stand on its own, but a nice scoop of ice cream takes it to another level. Mugen rolled out a pair of tuned CR-Z hybrids at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed, and the blokes from Auto Express asked to spend a day with one of them. Their team also wrangled away the keys to another "unlimited power" vehicle: a Mugen-tuned Ariel Atom.

How do the two compare to each other? Let's be real here... they don't. One is a naked track assassin while the other is a juiced-up hybrid wearing a body kit. Both vehicles have had Mugen wrenches applied to their engines, but that's pretty much where the comparison should end. Still, we can't say it's not entertaining.

Click past the jump to see how they "stack up" against each other.

Continue reading Honda CR-Z Mugen compared with.... Ariel Atom Mugen?!

Honda CR-Z Mugen compared with.... Ariel Atom Mugen?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arielariel atomatomcr-zhondamugenmugen ariel atommugen cr-zvideoTue, 12 Jul 2011 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19989201/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/12/honda-cr-z-mugen-compared-with-ariel-atom-mugen/19989201/article-detail.xml 19989201 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mugen-atom-vs-mugen-cr-z_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mugen-atom-vs-mugen-cr-z.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen shows Honda CR-Z RR Concept at Goodwood]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/mugen-shows-honda-cr-z-rr-concept-at-goodwood/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/mugen-shows-honda-cr-z-rr-concept-at-goodwood/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/mugen-shows-honda-cr-z-rr-concept-at-goodwood/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

honda cr-z mugen rr concept
Honda CR-Z Mugen RR Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mugen is not a name that one would be shocked to hear announced over the Goodwood Festival of Speed PA system. The Honda CR-Z, however, is a car that festival goers would be surprised to see idling ahead of its run up the hill. Upon closer inspection, though, you would see a bunch of aero bits, hear a racy exhaust thump and see the Mugen badge on the rear end. The Mugen CR-Z that we showed off earlier was not the only tuned hybrid two-seater at Goodwood. In fact, it wasn't the only CR-Z that Mugen brought along. Like a lonely Skywalker... there is another.

The Honda CR-Z Mugen RR Concept also showed its aggressive face at the Festival of Speed. The RR Concept goes a step further into the race-ready arena than the Mugen CR-Z. The exterior aero bits are more focused for track use, but there is no word on the performance figures created by what's under the hood. Mugen says this vehicle is being used as a study to help define future performance models. Take a look at it from both angles in our gallery below.

Continue reading Mugen shows Honda CR-Z RR Concept at Goodwood

Mugen shows Honda CR-Z RR Concept at Goodwood originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-zgoodwoodgoodwood festival of speedhondahonda cr-zhonda cr-z mugen rr concepthonda crzmugenmugen conceptmugen cr-zWed, 06 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19984499/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/06/mugen-shows-honda-cr-z-rr-concept-at-goodwood/19984499/article-detail.xml 19984499 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mugen-1-1309964565_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mugen-1-1309964565.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen CR-Z sounds nice as it zooms toward Goodwood]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/mugen-cr-z-sounds-nice-as-it-zooms-toward-goodwood/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/mugen-cr-z-sounds-nice-as-it-zooms-toward-goodwood/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/mugen-cr-z-sounds-nice-as-it-zooms-toward-goodwood/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mugen Honda CR-Z in action
Mugen Honda CR-Z hits the road - Click above to watch the video after the break

If you belong to the camp that believes there's nothing wrong with the Honda CR-Z hybrid hatch that couldn't be cured with an extra few doses of power, Mugen is cooking up something special that may be just what your tastebuds ordered.

If current speculation holds true, the Mugen-modified CR-Z will put out around 200 horsepower, drop 110 pounds of pudge from its standard curb weight and see improvements made to the base car's brakes, wheels and tires. Sounds tasty, no?

Naturally, there's a body kit bolted in place that includes a new fascia, rocker panels, rear wing and what appears to be a carbon fiber hood. Inside are Recaro seats and plenty of white-faced gauges. Finally, as you'll see - or rather hear - in the video after the break, it also boasts some aural improvements courtesy of what we're guessing are substantial changes to the exhaust system along with the welcome addition of a supercharger.

We'll have to wait until Goodwood before we get all the details sorted out, but in the meantime, go ahead and get a sneak peek in the video after the break.

Continue reading Mugen CR-Z sounds nice as it zooms toward Goodwood

Mugen CR-Z sounds nice as it zooms toward Goodwood originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 honda cr-zcr-zgoodwoodhondamugenmugen cr-zmugen hondamugen honda cr-zMon, 13 Jun 2011 19:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19965947/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/13/mugen-cr-z-sounds-nice-as-it-zooms-toward-goodwood/19965947/article-detail.xml 19965947 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/mugen-cr-z-vidcap_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/mugen-cr-z-vidcap.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen itching to build hot Honda Fit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/26/mugen-itching-to-build-hot-honda-fit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/26/mugen-itching-to-build-hot-honda-fit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/26/mugen-itching-to-build-hot-honda-fit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mugen Fit
Mugen Honda Fit/Jazz - Click above for high-res image gallery

As the pseudo-works Honda tuner of choice, Mugen has tricked out Civic models for decades. They've also dabbled in the occasional Accord, are preparing to debut their supercharged CR-Z and have even had their way with the Ariel Atom - powered as it is by Honda engines. So what's next for Mugen? It could be the Fit.

The five-door hatchback, known in other markets as the Jazz, has received some attention from Mugen in the form of aftermarket body kits and such, but the tuning house's British garage could be looking at something a little more comprehensive, according to a fresh report from Autocar.

According to the British mag, the hot Fit's engine program could incorporate either the 2.0-liter VTEC four from the Civic Type R or the supercharged hybrid 1.5 developed for the Mugen CR-Z. Tempting options, both, but whichever way the Honda tuner goes, the likelihood is that the result won't make the trip over to these shores, anyway.

Mugen itching to build hot Honda Fit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 May 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fithonda fithonda jazzjazzmugenmugen fitmugen hondamugen jazzThu, 26 May 2011 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19950845/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/26/mugen-itching-to-build-hot-honda-fit/19950845/article-detail.xml 19950845 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/mugen-fit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/mugen-fit.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen releases first photos of its supercharged Honda CR-Z]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/mugen-releases-first-photos-of-its-supercharged-honda-cr-z/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/mugen-releases-first-photos-of-its-supercharged-honda-cr-z/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/mugen-releases-first-photos-of-its-supercharged-honda-cr-z/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Honda CR-Z Mugen
Honda CR-Z Mugen - Click above for high-res image gallery

That Honda could have done more with the CR-Z than the lukewarm hybrid sport-hatch that resulted is no big news. But Mugen is here to highlight the point.

After teasing us with some initial details, a rendering and a shot of the engine bay, the pseudo-works Honda tuner has released the first photos of the modified CR-Z it is preparing to unveil at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July.

Performance figures haven't been finalized just yet, but earlier, Mugen pegged combined output from the supercharged 1.5-liter four and electric assist at 197 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. Combined with the 110 pounds of weight shaved off the chassis, Mugen figures that ought to be enough to make the custom CR-Z match the acceleration times of the Civic Type R.

Unfortunately, this is strictly a concept car for the time being, but there's no telling what could result from enough positive response. Follow the jump for the press release and check out the trio of images in the high-res gallery.

Continue reading Mugen releases first photos of its supercharged Honda CR-Z

Mugen releases first photos of its supercharged Honda CR-Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 May 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-zhondahonda cr-zhonda cr-z mugenmugenmugen cr-zWed, 18 May 2011 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19943586/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/18/mugen-releases-first-photos-of-its-supercharged-honda-cr-z/19943586/article-detail.xml 19943586 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web-mugen-crz_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web-mugen-crz.jpg <![CDATA[Honda CR-Z Mugen show car to pack 197 horsepower for Goodwood debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/02/honda-cr-z-mugen-show-car-to-pack-197-horsepower-for-goodwood-de/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/02/honda-cr-z-mugen-show-car-to-pack-197-horsepower-for-goodwood-de/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/02/honda-cr-z-mugen-show-car-to-pack-197-horsepower-for-goodwood-de/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mugen Honda CR-Z sketch
Honda CR-Z Mugen - Click above for high-res image gallery

Call it anticipation or call it wishful thinking, but reports of a hotter version of the Honda CR-Z have been circulating pretty much ever since the hybrid hatchback hit the market. The CR-Z may be sportier than most hybrids, but when the faithful were expecting a spiritual successor to the iconic CRX with an added jolt of electricity, many were left disappointed.

Along those lines, we have good news, and we have bad news. The good news is that some new details on the hotly anticipated Mugen version of the CR-Z have dropped. The bad news is that it's still strictly a one-off show car, at least for the time being.

Honda CR-Z Mugen engineThe concept car will be revealed in July at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. And when it is, it won't be turbocharged as earlier speculated, but it will be supercharged. With the added benefit of forced induction, the output from the 1.5-liter i-VTEC four that forms the internal combustion part of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system will be increased by 50 percent, and when coupled with the electric component will serve up 200 metric horsepower (197 on our scale) and 181 pound-feet of torque.

To go with the added power, the pseudo-works Honda tuner is also fitting adjustable dampers, a wider track, upgraded brakes and rolling stock, an enhanced aero kit and a weight-reduction regimen. Although Mugen insists it holds no plans for producing its breathed-on hybrid, there's no telling what sufficient demand might yield. Follow the jump for the press release and check out the two engine shots released to join the renderings released previously in the gallery below.


Gallery: Mugen Honda CR-Z Sketches

Mugen Honda CR-Z SketchMugen Honda CR-Z Sketch

Continue reading Honda CR-Z Mugen show car to pack 197 horsepower for Goodwood debut

Honda CR-Z Mugen show car to pack 197 horsepower for Goodwood debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 May 2011 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-zgoodwoodgoodwood festival of speedhondahonda cr-zhonda cr-z mugenmugenmugen cr-zMon, 02 May 2011 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19929750/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/02/honda-cr-z-mugen-show-car-to-pack-197-horsepower-for-goodwood-de/19929750/article-detail.xml 19929750 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-mugen-honda-cr-z630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-mugen-honda-cr-z630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen promises "Type R-like" performance from hotted-up Honda CR-Z]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/mugen-promises-type-r-like-performance-from-hotted-up-honda-cr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/mugen-promises-type-r-like-performance-from-hotted-up-honda-cr/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/mugen-promises-type-r-like-performance-from-hotted-up-honda-cr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mugen Honda CR-Z sketch
Mugen Honda CR-Z sketches - Click above for high-res image gallery

Not to be a total buzzkill, but before we tell you about Mugen and its plans to create a hotter Honda CR-Z hatchback, there's one little line in the automaker's press release that needs to be noted in italicized type:

At this stage, the CR-Z Mugen is being developed purely as a one-off prototype, with no plans for a production version.

Drat.

Honda may call its 2011 CR-Z a "sport hybrid," but ever since our first time behind the wheel, we've felt more than a little disappointed. It's an enjoyable enough steer, but remains in dire need of some more oomph, and even with the automaker's Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system on board, the resulting fuel economy isn't as great as one might expect for a car of its size and utility.

Honda tuning house Mugen Euro is set to rectify the need for a CR-Z with more spice - in concept form, anyway - with a hotted-up hatch that will debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. Mugen will offer enhancements for the CR-Z's 1.5-liter engine and IMA system to boost both horsepower and torque - creating "Type R-like performance" - while new brakes and suspension geometry will better communicate the added power to the driver. Mugen even says that these changes could result in improved fuel economy, though no official statistics have been divulged as of this writing.

So what if there aren't any plans for production (just yet). At least we know Honda has heard our cries. Follow the jump for the full press blast.


Gallery: Mugen Honda CR-Z Sketches

Mugen Honda CR-Z SketchMugen Honda CR-Z Sketch

Gallery: 2011 Honda CR-Z: Review


Live images copyright (C)2011 Steven J. Ewing / AOL

[Source: Mugen Euro]

Continue reading Mugen promises "Type R-like" performance from hotted-up Honda CR-Z

Mugen promises "Type R-like" performance from hotted-up Honda CR-Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 honda cr-zcr-zcrzhondamugenmugen eurotype-rThu, 17 Mar 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19882700/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/17/mugen-promises-type-r-like-performance-from-hotted-up-honda-cr/19882700/article-detail.xml 19882700 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-mugen-honda-cr-z630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/01-mugen-honda-cr-z630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen goes molecular with special-edition Ariel Atom]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/14/mugen-goes-molecular-with-special-edition-ariel-atom/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/14/mugen-goes-molecular-with-special-edition-ariel-atom/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/14/mugen-goes-molecular-with-special-edition-ariel-atom/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mugen Ariel Atom
Mugen Ariel Atom - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here's a match made in automotive heaven. Mugen has gone about working its magic on the Honda-powered Ariel Atom to celebrate the car's 10th anniversary. While the trick red chassis and white body work is enough to get us licking our chops, the Japanese tuner has also tweaked mighty four-cylinder at the heart of the open-wheel heathen.

A fully blueprinted K20Z Type R engine now provides the grunt, and thanks to new high-compression pistons, high-lift cams and new valve springs, the four pot kicks out a lofty 270 horsepower. Mugen says that a full seven days of work goes into each and every lump.

All told, the extra pep should get the Mugen Atom to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 150 mph. Yowza.

Buyers will also be treated to special four-piston brake calipers built by the stopping gurus at Alcon, and a modified version of the fully-adjustable coilover suspension found on the Atom V8 is standard equipment. Additionally, the cockpit is fitted with a new flat LCD screen to display the car's vitals. So far, there's no word on price, but given that Mugen is only turning out 10 examples of this rare bird, we'd bet a shiny nickel that they won't go cheap. Hit the jump for the full press blast.


Gallery: Mugen Ariel Atom


[Source: Atom Club]

Continue reading Mugen goes molecular with special-edition Ariel Atom

Mugen goes molecular with special-edition Ariel Atom originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arielariel atomariel atom mugenatommugenmugen ariel atomFri, 14 Jan 2011 19:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19802088/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/14/mugen-goes-molecular-with-special-edition-ariel-atom/19802088/article-detail.xml 19802088 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/01-mugen-atom-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/01-mugen-atom-630.jpg <![CDATA[Ariel Atom celebrates turning 10 with special Mugen edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/17/ariel-atom-celebrates-turning-10-with-special-mugen-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/17/ariel-atom-celebrates-turning-10-with-special-mugen-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/17/ariel-atom-celebrates-turning-10-with-special-mugen-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ariel Atom Mugen Special Edition
Ariel Atom Mugen Special Edition - Click above to enlarge

It's hard to believe that 10 whole years have passed since the only Brit crazier than Amy Winehouse hit the world stage. We are, of course, referring to the Ariel Atom, but you already knew that, didn't you? And, like any good anniversary celebration, AutoExpress reports that Ariel is celebrating its tenth by releasing a special edition, which sure beats the traditional anniversary gift of tin...

As befitting the celebration, Ariel plans to create just 10 special editions, the first of which will make its debut at the Autosport Show in the UK in January. The big news is that Ariel has partnered up with Mugen - a company that specializes in adding more power and finesse to Honda's wares - to boost the power of its Honda-sourced 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from 245 to 270 horsepower.

Further frippery will include a special coat of paint and a plaque proclaiming its special place in the order along with the signatures of the Mugen and Ariel technicians who built it (just one of each will have their hands on the machine). Check out a larger version of the rendering by clicking on the image above.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Ariel Atom celebrates turning 10 with special Mugen edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arielariel atomariel atom anniversaryariel atom mugenatommugenFri, 17 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19767772/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/17/ariel-atom-celebrates-turning-10-with-special-mugen-edition/19767772/article-detail.xml 19767772 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/ariel-atom-mugen-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/ariel-atom-mugen-opt.jpg <![CDATA[SEMA 2010: 2011 Honda CR-Z Mugen is a rare oddity]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/02/sema-2010-2011-honda-cr-z-mugen-is-a-rare-oddity/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/02/sema-2010-2011-honda-cr-z-mugen-is-a-rare-oddity/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/02/sema-2010-2011-honda-cr-z-mugen-is-a-rare-oddity/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Honda CR-Z Mugen
2011 Honda CR-Z Mugen - Click above for high-res image gallery

Heads up, CR-Z fans: Honda has announced that the company will be releasing a mere 300 Mugen accessory kits for the Japanese sport hybrid. The ultra-rare bodywork includes bits like a completely revised front fascia with an altered grille design, a massive rear spoiler and flashy 17-inch rollers. Under the hood things stay nearly completely stock, though Honda has swapped the blasé plastic oil filler cap with a billet aluminum piece. Astounding, we know.

But all of that pales in comparison to the interior work. Along with a new shift knob, Honda has installed "sport mats." We aren't entirely sure what makes a floor mat sporty, but we'll take their word for it.

The body kits will be available in all five CR-Z colors. So far, there's no word on how much the kits will cost, but we can't imagine they'll go cheap. Hit the jump for the full press blast.


Gallery: SEMA 2010: 2011 Honda CR-Z Mugen


Photos copyright (C)2010 Zach Bowman / AOL

Continue reading SEMA 2010: 2011 Honda CR-Z Mugen is a rare oddity

SEMA 2010: 2011 Honda CR-Z Mugen is a rare oddity originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 honda cr-z mugencr-zcr-z mugenhondahonda cr-z mugenmugensemasema 2010sema auto showsema auto show 2010sema showsema show 2010Tue, 02 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19699662/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/02/sema-2010-2011-honda-cr-z-mugen-is-a-rare-oddity/19699662/article-detail.xml 19699662 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/01-mugen-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/01-mugen-630.jpg <![CDATA[Video: <i>Autocar</i> pits Audi R8 V10 versus... Honda Civic Type R Mugen?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/14/video-autocar-pits-audi-r8-v10-versus-honda-civic-typ/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/14/video-autocar-pits-audi-r8-v10-versus-honda-civic-typ/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/14/video-autocar-pits-audi-r8-v10-versus-honda-civic-typ/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Audi R8 V10 vs. Honda Civic Type R Mugen - Click above to watch the video

There are certain debates that will rage on until the end of time: Coke or Pepsi, Zeppelin or the Stones, real or fake. But few take the cake in our little corner of the writing world quite like the infamous "fast cars slow or slow cars fast" dispute. On the one hand, what's the point of having a gazillion dollar supercar capable of cracking off triple-digit speeds at the drop of an eyelash if you're stuck on public roads? On the flip side, fans of mighty metal will politely ask you, why waste your life behind the wheel of anything with less than 400 horsepower?

Autocar has recently taken it upon itself to try to answer the unanswerable by pitting an Audi R8 5.2 FSI with 518 horsepower against the more common 239 horse Honda Civic Type R Mugen over a typical European country road. There are no solid performance figures or dyno pulls, just whether the pint-size hatch can keep up with the big mid-engine monster through the twists and down the straights. What do they find? Well, we won't spoil it for you. You'll just have to hop the jump to find out for yourself.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI V10


Gallery: Honda Civic Type-R Mugen (Euro)


Audi R8 photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Autocar]

Continue reading Video: Autocar pits Audi R8 V10 versus... Honda Civic Type R Mugen?

Video: Autocar pits Audi R8 V10 versus... Honda Civic Type R Mugen? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiAudi R8Audi R8 5.2 FSIAudi R8 V10AudiR8AudiR85.2FsiAudiR8V10CivicCivic Type R MugenCivicTypeRMugenCTRHondaHonda CivicHonda Civic Type R MugenHondaCivicHondaCivicTypeRMugenmugenR8R8 5.2 FSIR8 V10R85.2FsiR8V10Type RType R MugenTypeRTypeRMugenMon, 14 Jun 2010 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19515088/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/14/video-autocar-pits-audi-r8-v10-versus-honda-civic-typ/19515088/article-detail.xml 19515088 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/autocar-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/autocar-630.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen accessories for the Honda CR-Z officially revealed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/25/mugen-accessories-for-the-honda-cr-z-officially-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/25/mugen-accessories-for-the-honda-cr-z-officially-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/25/mugen-accessories-for-the-honda-cr-z-officially-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mugen Honda CR-Z - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda says its new CR-Z hybrid hatchback is supposed to hearken back to the days of its sporty little CRX, so it's anything but surprising that Mugen, the Japanese automaker's tuning company of choise, is showing off its package of accessories for the model ahead of its official sale date. Sadly, none of the bits or pieces will make the car much faster... but at least the CR-Z can look like a proper hot hatchback, right?

Included in the kit are the expected updates to the front and rear fascias, side skirts and an all-conquering roof-mounted wing that looks as if it could serve double-duty as a picnic table at your next tailgating session. There's also a new grille with optional LED lamps, triangular rear exhaust tips, and at least five different alloy wheel options. And we'd be remiss if we didn't at least mention the carbon fiber license plate holder.

Inside you'll find an aluminum gearshift knob, a three-gauge central cluster, floor mats and, wait for it... a carbon fiber rear-view mirror cover. Fortunately, there are a few extras that will improve the car's driving dynamics somewhat, including a cat-back exhaust system, upgraded springs and shocks and a full set of brake pads. Perhaps those pieces will restore enough performance to offset the added weight of the bodykit? See for yourself in our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Mugen Honda CR-Z


[Source: Mugen]

Mugen accessories for the Honda CR-Z officially revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-zcr-z mugencr-z type rcr-z-hybridCr-zMugenCr-zTypeRhondahonda cr-zhonda cr-z hybridhonda cr-z mugenhonda crzHondaCr-zHondaCr-zHybridHondaCr-zMugenHondaCrzmugenmugen cr-zMugenCr-zThu, 25 Feb 2010 14:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19373550/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/25/mugen-accessories-for-the-honda-cr-z-officially-revealed/19373550/article-detail.xml 19373550 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/mugen-cr-z_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/mugen-cr-z.jpg <![CDATA[Honda UK releases Civic Type-R Mugen 200 to celebrate return to BTCC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/15/honda-uk-releases-civic-type-r-mugen-200-to-celebrate-return-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/15/honda-uk-releases-civic-type-r-mugen-200-to-celebrate-return-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/15/honda-uk-releases-civic-type-r-mugen-200-to-celebrate-return-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Honda Civic Type-R Mugen - Click above for high-res image gallery

When Mugen's UK-based tuning arm turned up the wick on the Euro Civic Type-R late last year, the result was a 220-hp, stripped out hatch that was only available to 20 lucky consumers. Riding on the critical success of that limited-edition model, Honda UK will begin offering another Mugen-fettled Civic Type-R this March, but it's decidedly less impressive than its track-worthy predecessor.

Included in the package is a set of front and rear Mugen bumper skirts, lightweight 19-inch wheels, limited slip differential and a Championship White exterior, the last Type-R to receive the storied hue. Unfortunately, no mods have been performed to the engine, exhaust or ECU, so output remains unchanged at 200 horsepower.

Naturally, an assortment of badges and plaques are included on the 200 limited-edition models, which are being released to celebrate Honda's return to the British Touring Car Championship this April. Make the jump for all the details, along with ordering information... assuming you live across the pond.


Gallery: Honda Civic Type-R Mugen (Euro)

Continue reading Honda UK releases Civic Type-R Mugen 200 to celebrate return to BTCC

Honda UK releases Civic Type-R Mugen 200 to celebrate return to BTCC originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civiceuro civic type-rEuroCivicType-rhondahonda civic type r mugenhonda civic type-rhonda civic type-r mugenHondaCivicType-rHondaCivicType-rMugenHondaCivicTypeRMugenmugentype rtype-rTypeRMon, 15 Feb 2010 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19358644/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/15/honda-uk-releases-civic-type-r-mugen-200-to-celebrate-return-to/19358644/article-detail.xml 19358644 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/01-honda-civic-type-r-mugen-btcc-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/01-honda-civic-type-r-mugen-btcc-630op.jpg -1 2