My Experience Test Driving the 2012 Honda CR-Z Hybrid

I recently visited Honda of Stevens Creek on 4590 Stevens Creek Blvd where I checked out several hybrid models. I specifically noticed that test driving the Honda CR-Z EX 6MT hybrid felt like seamlessly floating on the road! Not having to worry about the gas gave me much to think about. Turning the ignition was an instant powering on (almost like a computer), a feature called Direct Ignition System with Immobilizer. I immediately noticed that the dashboard displayed some unique information, different from the usual “Full” or “Empty” gas indication. In addition to the standard automatic gears, I noticed a 3-mode drive feature for the CR-Z.

3-Mode Drive
On smaller residential roads, I put the 3-mode drive into Normal. On the highway, setting the drive to Sport gave an extra performance boost, quicker acceleration, and throttle response. The third mode is ECON, to be used for stop-n-go traffic. Power storage is provided by Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery that outputs 100.8 Volts. The 12-Volt battery charging system indicator displays remaining IMA State-of-Charge.

Continuously Variable Transmission
The hybrid also comes in the standard 6-speed manual transmission models that offer a high final-drive ratio. The automatic offers an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for fuel efficiency. Instead of gears, the CVT uses a set of pulleys: “drive pulley” connected to the engine, and “driven pulley” connected to the differential. The CVT finds the ideal gear ratio to take advantage of the 16-valve, i-VTEC 4-cylinder, 122-hp engine with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA). The IMA gives the CR-Z its low-rpm torque for off-the-line acceleration.

Zero Emissions
The CR-Z delivers an impressive 35 mpg city/ 39 hwy/ 37 combined for 6MT models. The Eco Assist System has certified zero evaporative emissions and an AT-PZEV (or Advanced Technology Partial Zero-Emission Vehicle) CARB Emissions Rating. The 10.6 gal fuel tank requires regular unleaded gas. The CR-Z is equipped with an idle-stop feature that temporarily turns off the engine to save fuel and minimize emissions (an automatic feature for CVT models).

Safety Features
The CR-Z has all the features of a standard sports car, but additional features such as electronic brake distribution, tire pressure monitoring system, and Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control are unique. Safety and convenience features include dual airbags, power windows, cruise control, daytime running lights, multi-information display, Bluetooth Hands FreeLink, and Anti-Lock Braking System.

Overall, I found the drive very comfortable, pleasant, and enjoyable. The myriad features allowed me to personalize the settings to suit my preferences. The fuel efficiency should help save over $1200 in gas costs over the year. The Honda CR-Z starts at $19,545, and the EX at $21,205. A Honda Civic hybrid starts at $24,050, so the CR-Z is a little less pricy and sportier, making it an ecologically and economically good buy.


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