The revised 2013 CR-Z hybrid which made its debut at September’s Paris motor show features a revised powertrain in which both the gasoline engine’s and electric motor’s power has been increased, while the car also features a lithium-ion battery for the first time. The revised CR-Z will go on sale in January 2013.
The CR-Z’s 1.5-litre engine has been updated with changes to the variable valve timing system and 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 114PS to 121PS. The change from a NiMH to a lithium-ion battery has been accompanied by an increase in the electric motor’s power from 14PS (10kW) to 20PS (15kW).
In the 2013 model the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system now delivers a combined output of 137PS at 6,600rpm (+13PS) and 190Nm of torque (+16Nm). The 0-62mph acceleration time falls from 9.7 to 9.0 seconds and top speed is 124mph. The combined consumption is 5.0l/km (56.5mpg) and emissions are 116g/km of CO2.
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.
