Honda teams up with Mugen Euro to launch sporty CR-Z ICF

Honda (UK) is working with MUGEN Euro to launch a 130+mph sports hybrid CR-Z, which boasts of Civic Type R performance. This initiative follows a successful program launch at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2011. This 175 PS1 "pocket rocket" hybrid has nearly 50 percent more power than the regular vehicle. It marks the strengthening of the engineering partnership between the two companies following the limited edition Civic Type R MUGEN in 2010.

Engineers at MUGEN Euro worked on the 1.5-litre power unit, keeping the 3-button IMA modes. They also added a centrifugal forced air induction system, induction system, charge-air cooler and a MUGEN Euro-mapped ECU. With these features, the vehicle has a remarkable power to weight ratio as well as an enhanced torque helping to deliver 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds -- over 3 seconds quicker than the regular vehicle.

According to Head of Honda (UK) marketing Martin Moll, the "MUGEN Euro magic" has developed a "super responsive yet eco-conscious model building on our sporting credentials." He added that this allows them to compete in the "hot hatch" marketplace as they move towards 2012. Production development will still be at MUGEN Euro, with vehicles available for test drive in spring 2012 through the eight Honda UK MUGEN dealers. Prices are expected to be around £24,000, but have yet to be confirmed.[via : 4wheelsnews]

Photo : Honda CR-Z ICF/Mugen

Review : 

Exterior :

The CR-Z has a broad stance and wedgelike profile. Inspired by the CRX two-seater sold in 1990 and '91, the CR-Z  shares that model's split liftgate window, an element that remains controversial in terms of style and driver visibility in the Insight and Toyota Prius.

At 160 inches long, the CR-Z is a few inches longer than a Mazda MX-5 Miata and the extended version of the Mini Cooper, the Clubman. Exterior features include:

• Standard 16-inch alloy wheels; 17-inch alloys available
• Standard LED taillights
• Standard rear-window wiper
• Available high-intensity-discharge headlamps
• Available fog lights
• Available heated side mirrors

Interior :

The interior has a busy but effective design similar to that of the Insight, with cockpit-style driver-oriented controls and displays. Even the ventilation controls are on a pod near the driver; there's no conventional center control panel and the optional navigation system is slightly on the passenger side of the dashboard.

Storage bins behind the seats are separated from the cargo area by a bulkhead that can be folded forward to extend the cargo hatch's floor — similar to a folding seat's backrest. A retractable cargo cover is standard. Interior features include:

• Power windows, locks and mirrors
• Manual-adjustable bucket seats
• Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
• CD stereo with MP3 jack and USB port
• Available premium stereo with subwoofer
• Available Bluetooth connectivity
• Available leather-wrapped steering wheel

Under the Hood :

Like other Honda hybrids, the CR-Z uses a relatively simple system that puts an electric motor in tandem with a gas engine, in this case a 1.5-liter four-cylinder. Though the engine shuts off when the car is stopped, it's always turning over when the car's in motion.

To suit the driver's needs, the CR-Z has Sport, Normal and Econ modes. Econ maximizes fuel economy, while Sport makes the acceleration more responsive and decreases the power-steering assist for a sportier feel. Mechanical features include:

• Gas engine and motor combine to produce 122 horsepower
• Standard six-speed manual transmission
• Optional continuously variable automatic transmission

Safety :

Standard safety features include:

• Side-impact airbags
• Side curtain airbags
• Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes
• Electronic stability system with traction control
• Active head restraints