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The CR-Z in the name stands for Compact Renaissance Zero. Honda describe it as a lightweight sports car and the actual car when it rolls out in 2009 might be different from what it looks at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. Well, some of it does look like going back to the CRX Honda hatchbacks of the 80s and 90s.
Will it go back to the front wheel drive of this throwback line of cars? One is not too sure right now. However, the car when it does get on the road is sure to be sporty as well as green. The futuristic instrument panel inside speaks volumes about what the car will be pitched as when it does roll out.
The inside seems really roomy and it’s a simple framework with mesh material, giving it a clean and sophisticated look. Of course the meter unit which is a piece of glasswork art makes it look very advanced and futuristic. The center console and the main dashboard have a neon-like ethereal blue feel to them.
On the outside, the sporty theme continues. It is compact and the huge grill has openings on both sides for a lighter look. However, there is a hint of aggression softened by the futuristic LED headlights.
There are tube-like combination lamps at the rear to complete the picture and the LED headlights are fin shaped and luminous. The door mirrors are very stylish too and make for very good visibility. To be so aerodynamic, sporty and yet green is really an accomplishment.
The smooth, clean lines of the glass roof and the rest of the car make it possible by minimizing the drag. Though it is supposed to be a compact car, the sheer space inside elevates it beyond the smaller cars in this category. Having a totally glass lift gate and a sun roof help. So does the wide panoramic windshield.
It is assumed that this car will have a powertrain similar to that of the Civic Hybrid, which means a gas-electric engine that promises a high level of torque coupled with clean performance.
It will have Brembo brakes as well as dual exhausts which are centrally mounted. The wheels are large and 19” which gives it a very sporty feel.
Why is the car called the CR-Z or the Compact Renaissance Zero car? Well, what Honda are trying to convey is the fact that the car captures the renaissance in compact car design while getting down to the fundamentals to build the car.