Honda tuning firm Mugen has just released these images of its hardcore take on the CR-Z. The new model is due to be launched at the Goodwood Festival of Speed between 1 and 3 July.
For now, the Mugen CR-Z is a one-off special but, depending on public reaction, Mugen’s UK performance division has not ruled out a limited-production run.
This CR-Z retains the 1,5-litre i-VTEC engine, but power has been increased from 91 to 147 kW with the aid of a supercharger. The maximum torque sees a 71 N.m increase, rising to a handy 245 N.m. The standard car’s electric motor has been rerecalibrated and will add further oomph to proceedings.
The added power is kept in check by a wider rear track, adjustable dampers and larger brakes with four-pot callipers. There’s also a significant reduction in mass, achieved in part through the (very visible) use of a carbon-fibre bonnet. Other detail exterior changes include the addition of a sizeable rear wing and gauges mounted on top of the facia.
Honda in Japan is known to be considering a full production ‘hot’ CR-Z, after customer feedback from early adopters suggested the car needed a higher-performance variant.
