If you were hoping that Honda was eventually going to release a non-hybrid version of its upcoming CR-Z hybrid, it looks like your hopes are lost. Although a CR-Z with the 2.0L from the Civic Si would have been awesome, according to a source it's not going to happen.
"This will definitely only be a hybrid," a source said. "The whole direction of Honda is hybrids and this car is designed all around a hybrid powertrain. The car isn't boring; it is responsive and fun."
Although the CR-Z has been dubbed the spiritual successor to the much-loved CR-X from the 80's, it's not going to be offered with a high revving conventional engine.
Full Story: AutoCar
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Comments (8)
I like the shape. I hope it's not Insight v1 slow.
Posted by Kawi | October 7, 2009 1:34 PM
Posted on October 7, 2009 13:34
If it comes out of development looking like this AND manages to boast a responsive, fun engine, then Honda will have a hit on their hands.
If it comes out looking a lot like the Prius, or driving like a Prius... well, good luck on that.
Posted by Kempai Tai | October 7, 2009 4:24 PM
Posted on October 7, 2009 16:24
Fun, no.
Eco responsible, maybe...
Strap on battery that weights to much, certainly.
Posted by Brian | October 7, 2009 6:18 PM
Posted on October 7, 2009 18:18
Well, I was going to buy this, I actually saved the money to do so considering I love my 91 Rex so much...but no on the hybrid.
Posted by JoePDX | October 8, 2009 9:39 AM
Posted on October 8, 2009 09:39
I wonder what the aftermarket market is on pulled hybrid powertrains? It seem like it would be a PITA to do an engine swap on one of these (going from Hybrid to conventional 2.0L) but if you could make some dosh selling the hybrid system, the 2L engine may come out in the wash. Hmm.
Posted by Jimb | October 8, 2009 10:40 AM
Posted on October 8, 2009 10:40
I dunno Jimb.
With cars being polluted with electronics these days (especially hybrids), the investment, work, and know-how required to do that type of transplant would result in the occasional show car at best.
Doing that reminds me of the Lexus driveline transplant that Penske or somebody did a handful of years ago. Fine, you have an even sportier Lexus, but what about that leftover Lexus that you shucked out?
Besides, enough Hondas get stolen and stripped already for parts due to kids blowing apart their drivelines. Just what we need, more demand for and already hot item.
Here's a crazy idea Honda. Make a mainstream FWD car designed to be a sports car. Don't add the -R to existing product.
You finally resurect the CR-X, make it look like a sporty little rocket (me likey), then slap driving enthusiasts in the face by putting hybrid gear in it....
The S2000 could have become something by now, but Honda chose not to do any reworks in 10 years of manufacturing. Just a quick facial before they kill it.
Oh well, everyone gets off their game once in a while.
Posted by Trooper Bri | October 8, 2009 3:37 PM
Posted on October 8, 2009 15:37
The concept in the pictures has more of a production car look than concept car look. I would say the production model will look very similar inside and out.
Posted by tomt | October 10, 2009 10:58 AM
Posted on October 10, 2009 10:58
I wonder if the emphases will be based on efficiency or performance? I would hope it gets 50-60 mpg.
Posted by mike | October 11, 2009 3:19 PM
Posted on October 11, 2009 15:19