Even if in Europe is now long gone, the Honda CR-Z still lives in United States, where it recently receives a new and improved version. The 2016 Honda CR-Z goes on sale November 3 with a price ranging from $20,295 for the CR-Z LX with 6-speed manual transmission to $25,090 for the new EX-L with standard navigation (CVT).
The redesigned front end features sharp character lines that flow from the sheet work and terminate in an angular eight-point polygon grill. A sharp, blade-like front diffuser sweeps up from the center and dissects the front corners to form triangular fog light wells that create prominent lower aero sills. The aggressive stance continues along the CR-Z’s sides with flared full-length side garnishe, complemented by new swept five-spoke design alloy wheels. The upward sweeping aero features of the front are mirrored at the rear, pushing the exit pod design elements to the sides for a wider looking stance.
New styling accessories include front bumper, rear tailgate and A- and B-pillar garnishes, LED fog lights with blue accent, and a fuel tank lid garnish.
Upgraded interior surface treatments include a new brushed metallic finish to the door handles, front paneling and center console. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and new-for-2016 heated and leather-trimmed seats on the top-of-the-line EX-L Navi trim include contrasting stitch pattern. A new center console rises between the seats with a comfortable armrest and deep storage compartment. Allowing for this addition is a new standard electric parking brake (EPB) that eliminates the traditional parking brake lever and offers easier push-button operation. Another new standard feature is the Smart Entry and Push Button Start/Stop system.
Newly standard on all CR-Z models is the 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen. The Display Audio lets you swipe, tap and pinch–just like on a tablet computer or smartphone–to control the vehicle’s audio system, display settings and other features, including Pandora compatibility.
CR-Z EX and EX-L Navi trims include Honda LaneWatch, which displays a wide-angle view of the passenger side roadway on the Display Audio screen. On the new EX-L trim, Display Audio includes as standard the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition and Honda HD Digital Traffic.
