2012 Honda CR-Z Mugen concept

Honda has released the first pictures of the Mugen CR-Z, ahead of its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed​​.

After over 15 per cent increase in power over the machines 'phase 1' and with more than 50 kg less than the casing, overall performance is set to meet the original target of Mugen.

Achieved 0-60mph in 6.6 seconds, and the team says it has passed the test version, thanks to increased power to 200bhp and 245Nm of torque.

The 1.5 i-VTEC engine developing 113bhp regularly, while bolting on the supercharger and cleaning Mugen IMA hybrid system for ft near 200bhp and 181 pounds, and dietitian Mugen been stripped out of the weight of 50kg is not necessary, to make the CR-Z is more agile. This hood is made of lightweight carbonfibre while Mugen alloy wheels.

Mugen also has improved handling and performance, fitting adjustable shocks and disc brakes are great, improve tracking and reduce weight. Mugen GP 17-inch alloy false are part of the exterior package that includes front and rear airdams, side skirts and rear wing.

Mugen Euro Building High-Performance Version of Honda CR-Z Hybrid

One of the biggest problems most see with Honda’s CR-Z hybrid sport hatch is the lack of a performance version. That may change soon enough as Mugen’s European division is readying a “highly-tuned” version of the CR-Z that it claims will deliver “Type R-like” performance. The faster and more powerful CR-Z Mugen prototype is being developed as a joint project between Honda UK and Mugen Euro, and it will make its world debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this July.

“This will be one quick hybrid,” said Martin Moll, Head of Marketing for Honda UK. “With more torque, more power and MUGEN’s experience of working with Honda cars, we’re expecting great things. It promises to show how hybrid cars can be even more exciting to drive.”

Honda said that the CR-Z MUGEN prototype will feature modifications to both the 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine and the Honda IMA system to boost power and torque, adding that these changes may also result in greater mpg and lower CO2 emissions during some conditions. Final power, torque and fuel economy figures are not yet known.

Read more »

Honda CR-Z: Honda so excited about winning Japan Car of the Year that gets special edition

The 2011 Honda CR-Z may not exactly be sailing to success here in the U.S., but it has managed to walk away with the coveted Japan Car of the Year title. In order to celebrate, Honda has decided to work up a new special edition version of its tiny sport hybrid.

Only available in a special "Pearl Dipusafaiaburu" blue paint, the hatch makes use of unique 16-inch alloy wheels and premium metal pedal pads inside. If the color and the wheels don't make this one easy enough to spot, Honda has also gone through the extra effort of placing a "Japan Car of the Year" commemorative sticker on the rear quarter glass behind the driver's side door.

Otherwise, the Japan Car of the Year Edition CR-Z will remain completely stock. Neither fuel economy nor power has been upped in any way. Not surprisingly, it looks like this one will remain a Japanese-only offering. Still, if you like what you see, chances are you could recreate the special edition CR-Z without breaking a sweat – or your bank account for that matter.