Honda updates CR-Z hybrid with more power and Li-ion battery

28 September 2012

Honda has updated the sporty CR-Z hybrid with a range of improvements focusing on style and performance. The power of both the gasoline engine and electric motor has been increased to 137 PS (128 hp, 96 kW) without compromising fuel economy or increasing exhaust emissions.

Updated CR-Z hybrid. Click to enlarge.

The car also features a Lithium-ion battery for the first time and a Plus Sport (S+) boost system to help the driver make the best use of this sporty performance. The revised CR-Z will go on sale in January 2013.

The CR-Z’s 1.5-liter gasoline engine has been updated with changes to the variable valve timing system and Engine Control Unit (ECU). An anti-vibration knock sensor has been introduced and the material of the crankshaft has been upgraded. The peak power output has been increased from 114 PS (112 hp, 84 kW) to 121 PS (119 hp, 89 kW).

The electric motor system has also been improved. The change from a nickel-metal hybrid (Ni-MH) to a lithium-ion battery has been accompanied by an increase in power from 14 PS (10 kW) to 20 PS (15 kW).

Working in unison, the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system now delivers a combined output of 137 PS at 6600 rpm (+13 PS) and 190 N·m (140 lb-ft) of torque (N·m ). The 0-62 mph sprint time falls from 9.7 sec to 9.0 sec and top speed is 124 mph (200 km/h). The combined consumption is 5 l/100 km (47 mpg US), with 116 g/km of CO₂.

To help the driver make the best use of this sporty performance, Honda has introduced a Plus Sport (S+) boost system. If the battery is more than 50% charged, the driver can activate this system using the S+ button on the steering wheel. When the accelerator is pressed the electric boost begins, delivering increased acceleration for up to ten seconds. A flashing gauge on the dashboard indicates when the system is active. S+ can be used in ECON, Normal or Sport modes.