First Impressions
At one time or another, we’ve all been on the receiving end of, “Don’t I know you from somewhere? I’m sure I’ve met you before.” Often times this question is asked because you’ve just got one of those faces, but there are instances when people ask because you stand out due to truly distinctive features.
Such is the case with the 2011 Honda CR-Z (view photos). Brand loyalists and a cult following of Honda CRX fans will undoubtedly see this modern hybrid’s resemblance to the old CRX, a two-door, two-passenger sports hatch that continues to draw attention – and top dollar – in certain circles. Despite the age difference (the CRX went out of production after 1992), these two models share unmistakably similar styling traits, including a split-glass rear window. However, take a closer look and you’ll realize that the resemblance is only skin deep. Back in the days of the CRX you wouldn’t have found features like LED taillights and HID headlights, the CR-Z’s ultra-modern gauge cluster, or the hybrid technology responsible for moving the whole package down the road. Likewise, shoppers considering the CR-Z won’t find it to be a 2011 iteration of the sporty, nimble CRX. Nor will they enjoy the outstanding fuel economy they’ve come to expect from today’s hybrid models.
Pricing, Trims and Options
In typical Honda fashion, the 2011 CR-Z’s model and pricing structure is simple and straight-forward. The least expensive version is named, aptly enough, the CR-Z, and goes for $19,950 including a $750 destination charge. You won’t be overwhelmed by the number of standard features, but that sub-$20,000 figure does include amenities such as illuminated steering wheel-mounted buttons for audio and climate control systems, a USB port, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Shoppers who crave a greater degree of comfort and convenience in their two-passenger hybrid will be better served by the CR-Z EX. Priced from $21,510, this mid-level trim takes things up a notch with exterior enhancements like fog lights, HID headlights and heated mirrors. Move inside and you’ll find a leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum trim, a 360-watt sound system with a subwoofer, and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
Next in line is the CR-Z EX with Navigation. In exchange for $23,310 buyers take home a CR-Z equipped with a voice-activated navigation system and corresponding steering wheel-mounted controls.
The only factory option is a $650 continuously variable transmission that replaces the standard six-speed manual. However, a variety of accessories can be purchased from your Honda dealer, including a full line of Mugen aftermarket parts that give the CR-Z with a more sporting appearance.
Interior Features
With the exception of the optional CVT, our 2011 Honda CR-Z (view photos) test car was delivered fully loaded. As such, we benefited from the inclusion of a navigation system with voice activation, clear resolution, and integrated audio controls. Many functions can be operated with buttons and dials surrounding the display, but their small size makes them less user-friendly than the handy touch screen.
Bucking tradition, Honda has located the CR-Z’s climate controls on a pod positioned to the right of the steering wheel. This placement puts a large temperature dial and a manageable selection of clearly labeled buttons within easy reach. As a result, the space below the navigation screen, where you’d usually find the climate controls, now plays host to an iPod hookup built into a covered cubby, allowing you to keep your cherished MP3 player out of the view of opportunistic passers-by. Move your eyes down a bit farther and you’ll find an auxiliary input jack and power outlet.
Unlike the busy instrument panels of many other current Hondas, the 2011 CR-Z’s layout is incredibly simple and intuitive. The high-tech gauge cluster appears more complicated than it actually is. At the center is a large tachometer, with backlighting that corresponds to which mode you’ve selected using buttons located to the left of the steering wheel. Green signifies Econ, blue and green signify Normal, and Red marks the CR-Z’s most aggressive setting, Sport. Your speed is displayed in bright digital format (so there’s no claiming you didn’t know how fast you were going – believe us, we tried), as are your battery’s level of charge and the amount of assist the hybrid system is providing.
Futuristic instrumentation may almost be expected in an all-new hybrid model like the 2011 CR-Z, but comfort in a sporty two-door is far from guaranteed. Therefore, we were a bit surprised to discover ourselves enjoying the bucket seats, even after long stints behind the wheel, thanks to ample thigh and back support, sufficient head room, and our test car’s leather-wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel. Detractions include a low-positioned seat and a wide door that can make entry and exit a bit difficult, a dearth of soft-touch surfaces, and the absence of a center armrest.
From a cargo-space perspective, the Honda CR-Z offers sufficient space for a few pieces of compact luggage or a small family’s stash of groceries. Where you’d normally find two rear bucket seats are recessed storage cubbies. Drop what appears to be a rear seatback and the result is a flat cargo floor and up to 25.1 cubic feet of usable space. Other storage provisions include a covered bin atop the dash, two cupholders in the center console, and handy door pockets.
Safety, Quality and Reliability
At the time of this writing neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) had crash tested the all-new CR-Z. In preparation for those events and the real-life scenarios they represent, Honda has equipped its little hybrid with six airbags, four-wheel antilock disc brakes with brake assist and electronic brake distribution technology, and stability and traction control systems.
Like all Honda models, the CR-Z is backed by a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and corrosion protection that spans five years with no mileage restriction. The hybrid system’s nickel-metal hydride battery is covered for eight years or 100,000 miles in states adhering to federal emissions standards; in CARB states (ME, VT, MA, NH, RI, CT, NY, NY, PA, MD, OR, WA, AZ, CA) the term is extended to 10 years or 100,000 miles.
Reliability information is not yet available for the CR-Z. As a brand, Honda scored four out of five Power Circle Ratings in JDPower.com’s 2010 Vehicle Dependability Study.