What I liked about the Honda CR-Z:
- Sharp styling
- Huge trunk
- Decent fuel economy for a sporty car
- Nifty three-mode hybrid system
What I didn't like:
- Not exactly thrilling to drive
- Noisy ride
Who should buy the Honda CR-Z:
Buyers looking for a sporty car with "green cred"
Who should not buy the Honda CR-Z:
Those who crave the raw driving experience of the original CRX
Details and specs:
- Body style: 2-door coupe
- Seating capacity: 2
- Trim levels: Base, EX
- Price range (estimated, including options): $20,000 - $25,000
- Base engine: 1.5 liter inline 4-cylinder and electric motor, 122 hp @ 6,000 RPM, 128 lb-ft @ 1,000-1,750 RPM (manual), 123 lb-ft @ 1,000-2,000 RPM (automatic)
- Optional engine: None
- Premium fuel required? No
- Transmission: 6-speed manual, continuously-variable automatic
- Driveline: Front engine, front-wheel-drive
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 31 MPG city/37 MPG highway (manual), 35/39 (automatic)
- Trunk space: 9.8 cu. ft.
- Where built:Japan
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control
- Optional safety equipment: None
- Major standard features: Power windows, mirrors and locks, remote keyless entry, automatic climate control, CD player, iPod interface, retractable cargo cover
- Major options: Navigation, Bluetooth phone connectivity, upgraded stereo with subwoofer, HID headlights, fog lights, automatic headlights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain, 8 years/80,000 miles hybrid components, 5 years/unlimited mileage outer body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: None
Best rivals:
Disclosure: This test drive was conducted at a manufacturer-sponsored press event. Transportation, accommodations, meals, vehicles and fuel were provided by Honda. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.
