With our countless technological innovations and legendary, race-inspired engines, Honda has always roared ahead of the curve.

Plus Sport System™

The Plus Sport System™ enhances the CR-Z's performance. Push the S+ button and the engine is primed for a boost of speed. Use it while making a pass, getting up to speed on the freeway, or just for fun.

1.5-liter, 16-valve i-VTEC

The CR-Z is powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC^® 4-cylinder engine with Integrated Motor Assist IMA^®. The CR-Z operates its 16 valves via one overhead camshaft, employing rocker arms for each exhaust and intake valve. In addition to providing variable intake-valve duration and lift profiles across the rpm range, the CR-Z's engine closes one intake valve at low rpm, running with three valves per cylinder until the engine crosses the 2300 rpm threshold, after which the engine resumes four-valves-per-cylinder operation. This makes the engine run more efficiently in the very bottom end of the power band. As an added bonus, the engine also produces an impressive exhaust note-how many hybrids can say that?

Integrated Motor Assist IMA^®

Honda's IMA system is simple and compact by design. Instead of having a separate alternator and starter motor like traditional internal-combustion engines, the IMA system combines the two functions in one with an electric motor that starts the engine, accelerates the car, recharges the battery and provides regenerative braking.

6-Speed Manual Transmission

The Honda CR-Z is the world's first production hybrid vehicle to offer a 6-speed manual transmission. These six speeds reward CR-Z drivers with the perfect gear for every driving occasion - including a high final-drive ratio for excellent fuel efficiency[A]. From the S2000 to the Civic Si, Honda has considerable experience with 6-speed manuals. So it's no surprise that the CR-Z's 6-speed gearbox is as efficient as it is engaging. Adding to the experience is an easy-to-grip shift lever finished in aluminum and black leather (EX).

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) is available on all CR-Z models. Instead of gears, the CVT uses an advanced system of pulleys. This lets the CVT choose from more ratios than a conventional automatic transmission, which means the CVT will find the ideal ratio to boost engine performance or increase fuel efficiency[A].

Hill Start Assist

The CR-Z includes hill start assist. When the driver releases the brake to activate the accelerator, hill start assist maintains brake pressure for about 1.5 seconds to prevent the CR-Z from rolling backward. Brake pressure is released when engine torque increases, allowing a smooth and controllable drive-away.

Sophisticated Suspension

The CR-Z's suspension system uses a combination of MacPherson front struts with lightweight forged, aluminum lower control arms and a torsion-beam rear suspension. Using struts in front makes more room available for crash reinforcement, and the rear torsion beam's compact size helps maximize cargo space. Honda engineers have tuned these components to give the CR-Z responsive handling and a decisively fun-to-drive character. At the same time, the suspension is exceptionally compliant, even over rough roads. All CR-Z models feature Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control[B].

Every CR-Z is equipped with updated 16-inch alloy wheels with P195/55R16 all-season tires. Or you can upgrade to the available 17-inch alloy wheels with 205/45R17 tires.