What happens when the tuning world meets the Birkenstock-wearing world of hybrids? I never thought we’d find out, or at least not for another few years (Those modified Prius are just bags of money on fire, useless). Well we may find out sooner, because Honda is now working with Mugen on a CR-Z Type R. In principle it’s a good idea, if they can find a way to make a sporty hybrid, I’m all for it. But here’s what I don’t get: The Mugen CR-Z will have a 2.0 liter gasoline engine that produces 150hp. Honda had to upgrade the electric motor as well, so it gets a boost from the stock CR-Z’s 20hp to a 50hp unit, raising total output to 200hp. It will also have upgraded brakes, suspension, EM and throttle response. Sounds like friendly fire that will hit the Civic SI right in the face.
I think the CR-Z is better looking than a Civic SI coupe, and now I can get one with the same horsepower as the SI, with the benefits of a hybrid drivetrain and engine stop/start. Even more of a travesty, this HYBRID will make the same power as Honda sportiest models do; 200hp. Honda needed to build a new sports car before this idea was announced, but now I think they need it even more. When your hybrids make as much power as your performance models do (and it’s 400hp), you need to take a look at yourself in the mirror. I’m happy we’re seeing hybrid concepts meant for people that have their adrenal gland intact, but the thought of a CR-Z hybrid having the same set of balls as something labeled “SI” is laughable. Plus, this car will probably cost less than the Civic SI HFP, so it will be a better deal.
Please, Honda, you make amazing cars, just turn the “balls” knob a little to the right. The S2000 is still sitting on a pedestal, but it’s collecting dust. You need a fresh, new, brilliant RWD car that packs more power than a pencil sharpener. Otherwise you will be what Toyota has been for the last 12 years; spineless.
Nice article, this might be a great idea or just a concept that will stay dormant. The S2000 did have the wow factor but Honda seemed pretty straight-forward about the idea of the S2000 being just a tribute to the old S500+.
As far as Toyota being "spineless" ( also with broken ankles and hips) they are attempting to restore things to RWD. FT-86 has potential and they have been bombing it with "hybrid" rumors. . .
It's all vapor news, but good news!
I know about the FT-86, so I meant spineless is something that Toyota was for the last 12 years, but is rectifying now. I should have been more clear. Right now Honda is picking up the NERF covered, hybrid powered ball of boredom Toyota dropped and is running with it.
But then again, Honda still makes reliable and good re-sale value cars. Nothing beats that and a good investment in a long run.
So, which would it be? buy a alright car and have things break later on? you lose more money taking that path. (totally off subject, just my opinion)
people just need to see the big picture
What? is this really going to happen?
This is the dumbest idea of all time. Please do make a new CR-Z. Please totally redo the body of this new piece of junk. Please do put a in awesome engine. Think of the 1.8 liter, 180 HP engine that went into the Celica GT-S.
I STILL THINK THE CIVIC TYPE-R LOOKS BETTER, EVEN THOU I DON'T LIKE IT EITHER…HAHAHAHA…
OLD SKOOL RULES!!!!!
I think that this is a great idea, but it will never show up in the states(although i hope they prove me wrong), if you look at any type r besides the integra they've never made it here… 200 hybrid horsepower is nice to have and the car won't have a back seat so it may interfere with civic si sales, but it will also bring a different crowd. With this being the case I think it may help them more than hurt them, but who knows
I think Honda is right on the ball with this one. It's very forward-thinking as hybrid tuning is going to be the next biggest thing for the aftermarket. I'm actually very excited to see what the Mugen CR-Z will be like.