25 Years of Honda Hybrid - Honda CR-Z

25 Years of Honda Hybrid - Honda CR-Z

Combining the advantages of a clean, efficient petrol electric hybrid powertrain with a stylish coupe body, the Honda CR-Z continued the brand’s pioneering tradition of delivering driving pleasure and class-leading efficiency when it launched in 2010.

With its compact dimensions, lightweight construction and aerodynamic design, the CR-Z followed in the revolutionary tracks of the original Insight.

Using lessons learned from the Insight and two generations of Civic Hybrid, the CR-Z featured an expertly evolved version of Honda’s advanced Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) petrol-electric powertrain that provided even stronger performance.

It was also fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox, which was a world first for a hybrid at that time.

The CR-Z also featured a 3-Mode Drive System, a unique feature that allowed the driver to choose between three driving modes (NORMAL, ECON and SPORT), each of which altered the responses of the throttle, steering, climate control and the level of assistance provided by the IMA system.

This carefully calibrated set-up allowed the driver to adapt the car's settings to enjoy their favourite road, maximise economy, or strike a balance between the two.

Power was provided by a 114PS 1.5-litre, 16-valve petrol engine that provided driver enjoyment with its enthusiastic engine note, willingness to rev and broad spread of torque, giving excellent fuel economy and great emphasis on driver enjoyment.