Honda Unveils The 2013 CR-Z Sport Hybrid

Hybrid vehicles are typically rather boring cars with the ultimate goal being fuel efficiency. Honda is showing off the new 2013 CR-Z Sport Hybrid coupe that looks much sportier than the traditional hybrid and the CR-Z is a hybrid with a more performance-tuned nature. The 2013 CR-Z Sport Hybrid will go on sale on November 21.

For the 2013 year model, the vehicle gets significant updates for powertrain, styling, and new features. One of the key new features is more power from the new lithium-ion battery pack that improves the performance of the vehicle and its EPA fuel efficiency ratings. The hybrid drivetrain system in the car uses a 1.5-liter four-cylinder 16-valve single overhead cam engine with intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control. That system allows the engine to produce more power.

The power of the electric motor has been increased to 2013 from 10 kW to 15 kW thanks to a high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack. The CR-Z is now able to deliver a combined peak output of 130 hp at 6000 RPMs and 140 pound-foot of torque for manual transmission versions with CVT models offering 127 pounds-foot of torque.

Despite the extra power, the EPA city/highway/combined efficiency rating is up by one mpg to 36/39/37 mpg for CVT models. Six-speed manual models have ratings of 31/38/34. The vehicle also gets a number of other changes for 2013 including a revised front fascia, 16-inch alloy wheels, a new rear diffuser, a new Plus Sport System, revised interior trim, available two-tone seats, standard Bluetooth, standard rearview camera, and lots more.