[Honda News] Honda’s CR-Z has received a mid-life refresh. Changes include some exterior and interior styling tweaks, as well as an updated drivetrain.
For sharper styling, there’s a new front bumper, a revised grille and a panoramic glass sunroof. There’s also a more aerodynamic diffuser at the rear, new 17-inch alloy wheels and the option of a new purple body colour.
Inside, the colour scheme has been changed and cabin LED lighting comes as standard. Other standard features include Bluetooth connectivity, heated seats, rain-sensing wipers and auto-on headlamps.
Honda has kept the 1,5-litre petrol engine, but has revised its i-VTEC variable valve timing system and has updated the ECU. The result is an increase in power from 84 kW to 89 kW. This unit is supplemented by a 15 kW lithium-ion battery instead of the previous 10 kW nickel-metal-hydride design. The combined output is now 101 kW, while maximum torque is 190 N.m. Performance numbers have also improved. The zero-to-100 km/h sprint time is now 9,0 seconds (previously 9,7 seconds) and the top speed is a claimed 200 km/h. Honda claims a fuel consumption figure of 5,2 litres/100 km and a CO2 figure of 124 g/km.
Honda has added a Sport Plus function to this vehicle. According to the manufacturer, pressing Sport Plus button on the steering wheel results in access to extra power from the electric motor if it is charged to more than 50 per cent capacity. This extra power is available for 10 seconds under full throttle and is available in all driving modes – eco, normal and sport.
The refreshed Honda CR-Z retails for R332 800 and includes a three-year/100 000 km warranty, a five-year/90 000 km service plan and a one-year AA roadside assistance package.