2011 Honda CR-Z Review
The 2011 Honda CR-Z is a unique hybrid offering that blends sporty styling, hybrid technology, and the rare availability of a 6-speed manual transmission. This review will cover various aspects of the car:
Key Specifications and Features
Towing Weight: The Honda CR-Z is not rated for towing.
Dimensions:
Length: 160.6 inches (4,080 mm)
Width: 68.5 inches (1,740 mm)
Height: 54.9 inches (1,395 mm)
Ground Clearance: 5.8 inches (147 mm)
Trunk Size:
Cargo Space: 25.1 cubic feet with rear seats down; 22.4 cubic feet with seats up.
Engine:
Type: 1.5L SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA).
Horsepower: 122 hp (combined with electric motor) @ 6,000 rpm.
Torque: 128 lb-ft (manual) / 123 lb-ft (CVT).
Battery:
Type: Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH).
Capacity: 100 volts.
Range: Not applicable as it is not a plug-in hybrid.
Fuel Consumption:
Manual Transmission: 31 mpg city / 37 mpg highway.
CVT Transmission: 35 mpg city / 39 mpg highway.
Annual Maintenance Cost: Approx. $400–$600 depending on region and service center.
Insurance Prices: Estimated at $1,200–$1,800 annually, depending on coverage and location.
Tire Sizes:
Standard: 195/55R16.
Base Curb Weight:
Manual: 2,636 lbs.
CVT: 2,657 lbs.
Colors:
Premium White Pearl
Milano Red
Crystal Black Pearl
Storm Silver Metallic
North Shore Blue Pearl
Price:
Base MSRP (2011): $19,200–$23,210.
Used Prices: $6,000–$12,000 depending on condition and mileage.
Features and Equipment
Entertainment:
AM/FM radio, CD player, USB/AUX inputs.
Premium 360-watt audio system (available on EX trims).
Safety:
ABS, VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist), front/side airbags, and active head restraints.
Crash Test Rating: Received mixed safety ratings, with acceptable frontal crash results but lower scores in some side-impact tests.
Luxury Elements:
While not a luxury SUV, the CR-Z offers high-quality interior materials and sporty seats.
Superstructure:
Made from high-tensile steel to reduce weight and improve rigidity.
Performance and Handling
The CR-Z is geared more toward fun-to-drive dynamics than outright speed. Its handling is sharp thanks to a low center of gravity and sporty suspension tuning. However, the combined hybrid engine output lacks the punch some enthusiasts might expect.
Model Defects and Concerns
Common Issues:
Weak battery performance after several years (typical for early hybrids).
Limited rear visibility due to sloping hatchback design.
Cramped rear seating area (practically unusable for passengers).
Pros:
Affordable sporty hybrid option.
Manual transmission adds engagement.
Stylish and futuristic design.
Cons:
Limited practicality due to small size and lack of rear seats (in U.S. models).
Modest power output.
Conclusion
The 2011 Honda CR-Z is a niche hybrid that appeals to eco-conscious drivers looking for something fun and unique. While it lacks the practicality of a traditional hybrid, its sporty design and manual transmission make it stand out. However, buyers should consider the relatively small trunk space, modest power, and potential hybrid battery replacement costs as the vehicle ages.
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The 2011 Honda CR-Z is a unique hybrid offering that blends sporty styling, hybrid technology, and the rare availability of a 6-speed manual transmission. This review will cover various aspects of the car:
Key Specifications and Features
Towing Weight: The Honda CR-Z is not rated for towing.
Dimensions:
Length: 160.6 inches (4,080 mm)
Width: 68.5 inches (1,740 mm)
Height: 54.9 inches (1,395 mm)
Ground Clearance: 5.8 inches (147 mm)
Trunk Size:
Cargo Space: 25.1 cubic feet with rear seats down; 22.4 cubic feet with seats up.
Engine:
Type: 1.5L SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA).
Horsepower: 122 hp (combined with electric motor) @ 6,000 rpm.
Torque: 128 lb-ft (manual) / 123 lb-ft (CVT).
Battery:
Type: Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH).
Capacity: 100 volts.
Range: Not applicable as it is not a plug-in hybrid.
Fuel Consumption:
Manual Transmission: 31 mpg city / 37 mpg highway.
CVT Transmission: 35 mpg city / 39 mpg highway.
Annual Maintenance Cost: Approx. $400–$600 depending on region and service center.
Insurance Prices: Estimated at $1,200–$1,800 annually, depending on coverage and location.
Tire Sizes:
Standard: 195/55R16.
Base Curb Weight:
Manual: 2,636 lbs.
CVT: 2,657 lbs.
Colors:
Premium White Pearl
Milano Red
Crystal Black Pearl
Storm Silver Metallic
North Shore Blue Pearl
Price:
Base MSRP (2011): $19,200–$23,210.
Used Prices: $6,000–$12,000 depending on condition and mileage.
Features and Equipment
Entertainment:
AM/FM radio, CD player, USB/AUX inputs.
Premium 360-watt audio system (available on EX trims).
Safety:
ABS, VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist), front/side airbags, and active head restraints.
Crash Test Rating: Received mixed safety ratings, with acceptable frontal crash results but lower scores in some side-impact tests.
Luxury Elements:
While not a luxury SUV, the CR-Z offers high-quality interior materials and sporty seats.
Superstructure:
Made from high-tensile steel to reduce weight and improve rigidity.
Performance and Handling
The CR-Z is geared more toward fun-to-drive dynamics than outright speed. Its handling is sharp thanks to a low center of gravity and sporty suspension tuning. However, the combined hybrid engine output lacks the punch some enthusiasts might expect.
Model Defects and Concerns
Common Issues:
Weak battery performance after several years (typical for early hybrids).
Limited rear visibility due to sloping hatchback design.
Cramped rear seating area (practically unusable for passengers).
Pros:
Affordable sporty hybrid option.
Manual transmission adds engagement.
Stylish and futuristic design.
Cons:
Limited practicality due to small size and lack of rear seats (in U.S. models).
Modest power output.
Conclusion
The 2011 Honda CR-Z is a niche hybrid that appeals to eco-conscious drivers looking for something fun and unique. While it lacks the practicality of a traditional hybrid, its sporty design and manual transmission make it stand out. However, buyers should consider the relatively small trunk space, modest power, and potential hybrid battery replacement costs as the vehicle ages.
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