2016 Honda CR-Z
The Honda CR-Z is a small two-seat runabout with a hybrid gas-electric engine that delivers an EPA-estimated 37 mpg Combined when ordered with the optional CVT. The CR-Z is nothing if not an ambitious car. It sets out to prove that small hybrids can be sporty, fun, and maybe even a little sexy. Where's the evidence? The CR-Z certainly looks like it's prepared for takeoff and offers an honest-to-goodness manual transmission, something you can't get on any other hybrid. The short wheelbase provides built-in agility, and the snug interior has room for just two people. Everyone knows two-seaters are a hoot, right?
We're not convinced, or even reluctantly persuaded, that the CR-Z has clinched its mission. Certainly it demonstrates that a hybrid doesn't have to be a one-note player that exists for efficiency's sake, but it breaks no ground when it comes to performance per gallon.
So what we have here is an aggressively styled hatchback with proven hybrid technology and a healthy shot of personality. It's not designed to win over the masses of course, although it could afford to move a little in that direction. The CR-Z is a companion for folks who take their individualism seriously.
Powering all models is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and electric motor that together produce 130 horsepower. A 6-speed manual transmission with hill-start assist is standard, making the CR-Z the only hybrid on the market that you can shift yourself. All models offer three driving modes: Normal, Econ, and Sport.
The CR-Z has been with us since 2010, but looks the part of a new car thanks to exterior freshening for the 2016 CR-Z lineup. Up front are revised air intakes and a more angular grille. The side trim and wheels are also new. Inside is a larger infotainment touchscreen, and blind spot monitoring is available for the first time.
With its unique layout and hybrid power, the CR-Z has few direct competitors. For buyers most interested in efficiency, the Toyota Prius C could be a compelling alternative. If handling is a chief concern, we recommend looking at the gas-powered Ford Fiesta ST. The charming MINI Cooper offers equally expressive styling.
Model Lineup
Honda CR-Z LX ($20,295) comes with cloth upholstery, automatic climate control, rearview camera, and a six-speaker sound system. CR-Z EX ($22,140) adds LaneWatch blind spot monitoring system with visual display, along with a more powerful sound system and upgraded exterior lighting and interior trim.
The line-topping EX-L Navi ($24,440) adds heated leather seats, HD radio, and a full-feature navigation system. (All prices are MSRP before destination charge.)
The optional ($650) continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) comes with paddle shifters and increases efficiency a bit.
Exterior Features
Even without the badges, you could probably guess where the CR-Z comes from. The aggressive wedge shape and nearly vertical rear drop tell us this is a Honda with eco-sport aspirations. We've seen this design theme on the brand's past two-seaters, the Insight hybrid and CRX. The look is undeniably distinctive …
Full Review
Full Review
The CR-Z is nothing if not an ambitious car. It sets out to prove that small hybrids can be sporty, fun, and maybe even a little sexy. Where's the evidence? The CR-Z certainly looks like it's prepared for takeoff and offers an honest-to-goodness manual transmission, something you can't get on any other hybrid. The short wheelbase provides built-in agility, and the snug interior has room for just two people. Everyone knows two-seaters are a hoot, right?
We're not convinced, or even reluctantly persuaded, that the CR-Z has clinched its mission. Certainly it demonstrates that a hybrid doesn't have to be a one-note player that exists for efficiency's sake, but it breaks no ground when it comes to performance per gallon.
So what we have here is an aggressively styled hatchback with proven hybrid technology and a healthy shot of personality. It's not designed to win over the masses of course, although it could afford to move a little in that direction. The CR-Z is a companion for folks who take their individualism seriously.
Powering all models is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and electric motor that together produce 130 horsepower. A 6-speed manual transmission with hill-start assist is standard, making the CR-Z the only hybrid on the market that you can shift yourself. All models offer three driving modes: Normal, Econ, and Sport.
The CR-Z has been with us since 2010, but looks the part of a new car thanks to exterior freshening for the 2016 CR-Z lineup. Up front are revised air intakes and a more angular grille. The side trim and wheels are also new. Inside is a larger infotainment touchscreen, and blind spot monitoring is available for the first time.
With its unique layout and hybrid power, the CR-Z has few direct competitors. For buyers most interested in efficiency, the Toyota Prius C could be a compelling alternative. If handling is a chief concern, we recommend looking at the gas-powered Ford Fiesta ST. The charming MINI Cooper offers equally expressive styling.
Model Lineup
Honda CR-Z LX ($20,295) comes with cloth upholstery, automatic climate control, rearview camera, and a six-speaker sound system. CR-Z EX ($22,140) adds LaneWatch blind spot monitoring system with visual display, along with a more powerful sound system and upgraded exterior lighting and interior trim.
The line-topping EX-L Navi ($24,440) adds heated leather seats, HD radio, and a full-feature navigation system. (All prices are MSRP before destination charge.)
The optional ($650) continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) comes with paddle shifters and increases efficiency a bit.
Exterior Features
Even without the badges, you could probably guess where the CR-Z comes from. The aggressive wedge shape and nearly vertical rear drop tell us this is a Honda with eco-sport aspirations. We've seen this design theme on the brand's past two-seaters, the Insight hybrid and CRX. The look is undeniably distinctive …
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Retail Price
| Engine | I-4 |
| MPG | Up to 31 city / 38 highway |
| Seating | 2 Passengers |
| Transmission | 6-spd man w/OD |
| Power | 122 @ 6000 rpm |
| Drivetrain | front-wheel |
| Curb Weight | 2,648 - 2,685 lbs |
