New 2011 Honda CR-Z is the Most Affordable Hybrid for the Year
A recent press release from Honda indicates that the new 2011 Honda CR-Z comes with a starting price of $19,200. This affordable price tag makes the sporty CR-Z the most affordable hybrid for the year, undercutting the current value-leader - the Honda Insight - by $600.
However, an additional destination and handling charge of $750 helps bring the 2011 CR-Z in line with its Honda brother. Even with this extra charge, the CR-Z's price tag comes in lower than experts had anticipated.
Honda has lofty goals for the CR-Z, and hopes the vehicle can make a bigger splash than the Honda Insight, which was reintroduced to the market last year and met with mixed reviews.
Compared to the Insight, the Honda CR-Z has a lot of things going for it. Billed as a sporty, two-passenger coupe, the vehicle brings a unique personality that is intended to appeal to younger drivers who want a swift vehicle combined with the benefits of hybrid technology.
New 2011 Honda CR-Z MPG and Performance
Honda's recent press release sheds light on a number of vehicle details, including estimated mileage. The vehicle will be outfitted with a 1.5-liter I-VTEC four-cylinder engine that combines with the electric engine to deliver 122 horsepower. Early reports suggest that this engine provides a more fun, sportier ride than both the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius.
Mated to an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT), the CR-Z promises to offer 36 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Those interested in a bit more performance can opt for a manual transmission that offers 31 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. For those willing to compromise, the CVT comes with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual-like performance.
Honda also promises the ability to choose between three driving modes - Sport, Normal and Econ. The Econ mode maximizes fuel efficiency, and drivers can further improve fuel stats thanks to an Eco Assist tool and Eco Scoring.
While certainly not the most fuel-efficient hybrid for the year, the CR-Z splits its focus between efficiency and performance - a fact that makes it unique among affordable hybrid cars.
New 2011 Honda CR-Z Trim Levels
The Honda CR-Z is available in two trims. The base model comes standard with a six-speaker stereo with CD player and USB input, full power accessories, automatic climate control, cruise control and keyless entry. Considering the price, this is a great mix of standard features.
Additional features can be found on the upgrade CR-Z EX model, which comes equipped with seven-speaker stereo, Bluetooth and leather-wrapped steering wheel. The EX starts at $20,760. Add a navigation system and CVT transmission, and top-of-the-line models go for $23,210.