The 2014 CR-Z goes on-sale tomorrow, combining sleek styling, numerous standard features and sporty handling while maintaining terrific fuel efficiency. The CR-Z was thoroughly updated for the 2013 model year with a more powerful battery pack, increased power and styling improvements, while also earning a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). For 2014, the CR-Z remains the only hybrid vehicle offered with a sporty manual transmission.
Using Honda’s highly efficient, compact Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system, the CR-Z has an EPA rating of 31/38/34 mpg2 city/highway/combined (MT) and 36/39/37 mpg2 city/highway/combined (CVT), and is rated as an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) in states that adhere to California Air Resource Board (CARB) ZEV standards (EPA Tier 2, Bin 2 in all states).
Two models are available, the standard CR-Z with a starting MSRP of $19,995, and the feature-rich EX with a starting MSRP of $21,840. Both models come equipped with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an available CVT. Additional standard features on every new 2014 CR-Z include Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, Bluetooth Audio, rearview camera, an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers, automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry and cruise control.
The hybrid powertrain uses a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder, 16-valve, single-overhead cam (SOHC) engine with "intelligent" Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC®) that receives additional power from the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA®) system’s DC brushless electric motor. Powered by a 144-volt Lithium-Ion battery pack, the 15-kW electric motor assists in acceleration and also acts as a generator during braking or coasting to capture kinetic energy and recharge the battery. Combined peak output is 130 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 140 lb-ft. of torque (127 lb-ft. on CVT-equipped models), including electric-motor assist (all figures SAE net).
