Overview & Reviews
Much like the iconic Honda CRX that predates it by two decades, the Honda CR-Z attempts to blend fuel efficiency with fun-to-drive dynamics. This time around, Honda makes use of a hybrid powertrain to motivate this sporty-looking two-seater.
When it comes to acceleration and handling, the CR-Z is a far cry from being considered a sports car, but it's certainly livelier than the typical hybrid or economy car. On the whole, the Honda CR-Z represents a compromise between eco-friendly fuel consumption and everyday driving excitement. However, that compromise results in the CR-Z not really excelling in either category. Many competing non-hybrid subcompact cars offer similar efficiency and fun along with greater practicality, more features and higher refinement.
Current Honda CR-Z
The Honda CR-Z is offered in two trim levels: base and EX. The base model features alloy wheels, automatic climate control, full power accessories, cruise control, Bluetooth and an audio system with USB/auxiliary audio jacks. The EX adds xenon headlights, foglights, heated side mirrors and a premium audio system. A voice-activated navigation system is optional on the EX. Other options include 17-inch wheels, performance tires and satellite radio.
Powering the Honda CR-Z is a hybrid system consisting of a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and an electric motor that is fed by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Maximum combined output is 130 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with shift paddles is optional (although torque is reduced to 123 lb-ft in this configuration). Fuel economy comes in at an EPA-estimated 34 mpg for the manual transmission model in combined city/highway miles, while the CVT ups that figure to 37 mpg.
Highlights for the CR-Z include its diminutive size, quick steering, customizable driving modes and sporty looks. The CR-Z's potential liability is ironically the source of its singular appeal, which is the lack of a rear seat. Honda instead has installed a pair of plastic cargo bins behind the seats, although they're rather difficult to access. The trunk divider can be folded flat to cover these bins, which increases cargo capacity to 25 cubic feet. The interior is handsomely designed, but the liberal use of hard plastics gives the cabin an entry-level feel. Poor rearward visibility and excessive road noise are also drawbacks.
Used Honda CR-Z Models
The CR-Z debuted for the 2011 model year. Prior to 2013, its hybrid powertrain produced 122 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque, making it even less performance-oriented than it currently is. Fuel economy remains unchanged, however. These first two model years had slightly different styling and fewer standard features. For instance, Bluetooth could only be had on an EX.
User Reviews:
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Awesome car, couldnt be happier! - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By Brendon - October 29 - 2:00 amI had been looking for a new car for the past two years, including the Speed3, Civic SI, Scion TC, WRX etc. I came across the CR-Z, test drove it and was immediately impressed. That same day my car search ended and I ordered a manual. I Added on every accessory available (the armrest is highly recommended), and 3 weeks later I had the exact car I wanted. At first I thought I would be slightly disappointed with the average performance (8.3 0-60) and average fuel economy for a hybrid, but from the minute I got into the car I have not stopped smiling and making excuses to get back on the road! And as for performance, its around 8s to 60 (feels zippier though!) and I get 34/43 mpg (above rated)
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The 1 all Prius owners wish they bought - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By GR - October 29 - 2:00 amHonestly there are very few low mid range priced car makers out there any longer that smart consumers would feel confident with purchasing one of there vehicles Honda is one exception. Honda has always built quality vehicles and provided very good customer service / relations. We have purchased six new vehicles in our life-time so far and had always bought American made vehicles in the past. I have found there is no longer any such maker, Fords are made in Mexico, Chevrolets in Canada, Dodge Chryslers in Mexico and just about anywhere but America so-long to built in America unless you buy a Harley Davidson. I had to voice this due to the fact that we painfully found out the
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Zippy Fun Hybrid - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By PDX_CRZ - October 20 - 2:00 amI was shopping for a economy gas vehicle and had narrowed my choices down to a Fit or Scion xD when I saw the CRZ in the Honda show room. I was instantly enamored. I was down-scaling from a large SUV to a small car I struggled with the idea of a two seater but quickly dismissed since I was keeping the SUV. I found the Prius boring and the Insight low resale. Previously owned utility type vehicles but decided it was time for a fun car. I settled on the Silver EX with Navi model. Ive had the car 3 weeks and very pleased, 43 mpg hwy and with drive conscientious driving I get ~40 city mileage keeps improving.
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A Car that should be Enjoyed - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By Ralph - October 19 - 2:00 amWe have had Hondas in the past. Starting with the 2007 Fit, then a 2009 Fit, we planned on trading in a 2011 Fit until my wife sent me a pic of the CRZ. Our local dealer had 2 in stock, but one was sold. I went to the dealer not intending on buy it, but it was taken by the styling and even more impressed when I drove it, So I bought it. It is a head turner and a lot of fun to drive.
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Finally, a fun good looking hybrid! - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By Quentin - October 10 - 2:00 amWe have CR-Z ex with CVT. Its a fun to drive hybrid and we love the styling. We drive mostly in the ECON mode and are getting better mpg than whats listed on the sticker. We are averaging 45-47 combined hwy/city. On the highway at 55 mph we are getting 48 mpg, at 65mph 43 mpg, at 70-80 mph 39 mpg. If you need a quick pickup & go you just push a button and you get instant pocket rocket power. The inside is roomy & comfortable. Ergonomics are great. The hatchback/cargo area handles all our shopping needs and carries our 3 dogs with room to spare. A lot of thought went into this machine, it has the feel and looks of quality throughout.
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Happy Honda and Even Happier Owner! - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By CR-Z4me - September 22 - 2:00 amDecided to purchase this snazzy economic sports coupe after test driving many other makes/models. The CR-Z EX w/ CVT exceeded all expectations and continues to impress. Chevys Cruz was loud and had many rattles. Fords Fiesta/Mazda2 are cramped. The CR-Z is roomy, handles w/ precision, rides great, has brisk acceleration, gets 38-52 mpg and looks like a true sports car costing thousands more. The bright silver paint with gray luxury-sports cloth seating makes for a rich combination that turns heads. Many ask how we like our new Honda. Pamper yourself for just a tad more and treat yourself w/ the nicely equipped "EX" edition with navigation. You will enjoy waves, honks, smiles and thumbs up!
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Sports hybrid of the future - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By DC Urban Commuter - September 20 - 2:00 amComing from a big sedan to this car is a big change. This car is small, low and sporty. It is not very fast or gets 60 miles a gallon. However I get over 43 mpg in hybrid mode and better then 0 to 60 in 10 sec. in sports mode. I drive in the city mostly so extreme speed is not needed, and I am a bachelor and always wondered why I needed back seats. This car is perfect for me for the price and life style.
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CRX: The Sequel - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By Brian - September 18 - 2:00 amFor those that remember their CRX fondly, the CRZ is likely a love at first sight experience. For others, the CRZ will be a polarizing, love it or leave it two-seater that has a very unique feel. Pros: Sporty exterior look, three distinct performance personalities, exceptional and intimate cab design, lots of technical features for the MSRP, tight handling and excellent sound acoustics. Cons: Lack-luster hybrid fuel efficiency, quarter panel blind spots, mushy economy-mode performance and dated navigation. Overall, the CRZ is a great commuter car for those who are looking for a fun driving experience and a sporty look. Reasonable MPG expectations will prevent disappointment.
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Needs a Lot More to Make it Worth Buying - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By jkisdrivin - September 17 - 2:00 amLet me start by saying this: Ive owned several hybrids before including the original 60 mpg Honda Insight. Currently my other is a 2010 Toyota Prius II. I am not sure if the CR-Z is any better of a car than my old Insight. You figure with the advancements in Hybrid technology in the last 10 years that this car would get something better than just 31mpg with the manual tranny. I must say that I am thoroughly disappointed with this car as I expected a lot more in a car for this money. In hindsight I should have probably bought a Honda Fit instead, save $4K in the process, and get much more of a useful car. Needless to say, Ill be driving the Prius more these days over the CR-Z.
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Works for Me ! - 2011 Honda CR-Z
By Tk - September 16 - 2:00 amHave 1000 miles on it now. I bought the automatic. Lots of fun. The fuel mileage is increasing now that I"m driving it in "Normal" all the time. Getting 38.4 mpg now. Has plenty of PEP. Handling is good. No the smoothest ride because the battery under the trunk is so heavy. Hope it holds up! Happy so far! Got 7.0 seconds 0-60 on the 5th try in "Sport-Mode".
