Power Wheels Magazine A Notch Above
Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI), revealed the New 2016 CR-Z 1.5 Hybrid at the Imperial Ice Bar at the The Fort Strip, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig which is a sneak peek to the official arrival of the Sports Hybrid on January 2016, the event is also a celebration of HCPI’s exceptional sales, for 2015 brought about new additions to the product line up such as the Odyssey, the Mobilio, the HR-V, the All New Legend, and the celebration of the 25th Year Anniversary of Honda Cars in the Philippines. All these serve as a positive indication of Honda’s performance in 2016.
For the powertrain, the new CR-Z is still equipped with a 1.5 liter i-VTEC engine. Coupled with the engine is a lightweight and compact Integrated Motor Assist Hybrid System (IMA). This enables the CR-Z to develop power and torque similar to higher displacement engines.
The new CR-Z still sports the “3 Mode Drive System” namely the Normal, ECON, and Sport. In Sport mode, The CR-Z delivers exciting performance that only a sporty hybrid car can offer. The system applies integrated control over the engine’s drive by wire control, motor assist, CVT shift control, EPS and air conditioner.
The Plus Sport System can still be found in the New CR-Z. CR-Z drivers can get the acceleration feeling similar to V6, 3,000cc engine cars with the push of a button.
Honda maintains the sports chassis by using forged aluminum in the front lower arms, for lower weight, and high rigidity. The lightweight aluminum wheels also make the weight under suspension lighter, leading to smooth suspension response while the large capacity EPS with quick ratio allows for a more agile handle and a stable steering feel.
The eight-point polygon grill and blade-like front diffuser sweeps up from the center and dissects the front corners to form triangular fog light wells that create a wider look and feature prominent lower aero sills. Complementing this is the 17 inch alloy wheels and the handsome and aggressive stance reflects the styling concept as the CR-Z weaves through Manila’s streets.
Inside is a more “Exciting Mature Cockpit” forged with numerous features including a new push button start, a 7 inch touch screen display audio that can show various functions such as navigation and a reverse camera, and center console which doubles as an arm-rest. This was made possible with the application of an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) that eliminates the traditional parking brake lever and offers easier push-button operation.
Completing the package is the superb Active Noise Control (ANC) and Active Sound Control (ASC). Using the stereo speakers, engine sound is enhanced depending on the situation. In ECON and Normal Modes, a sophisticated and more linear sound response is emitted, while a sportier sound is produced in Sports mode.
The new CR-Z 1.5 Hybrid comes in a new selection of 5 exciting colors colors including a new 2 tone color option with black painted roof, door mirrors, and tailgate:
Helios Yellow Pearl (2-Tone)*
Milano Red (2-Tone)*
Premium White Pearl (2-Tone)*
Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic
Polished Metal Metallic **
*Special Color
**Per Order Basis
The New CR-Z will be available for delivery in January 2016 and the price will be announced soon. 33 Honda dealerships nationwide will be accepting pre-orders.
For further updates about the 2016 CR-Z please visit www.hondaphil.com.
Photos by Neil Pagulayan and HCPI