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The 2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid
New to the 2011 Honda lineup is the Honda CR-Z Hybrid. It is sporty, Eco friendly, and has all the bells and whistles that you would find in regular vehicles, but with hybrid technology and an affordable price. While a gasoline engine does most of the work, there is also the electric motor, which helps greatly in fuel economy, speed, as well as handling. This vehicle features three different drive modes, regular, where both the electric as well as the gasoline engine are working equally. There is the sport mode, which changes performance to the four-cylinder gas engine but the electric motor kicks in to boost power and handling. For maximum fuel economy, there is the Economy mode. This is an ideal setting when you are stuck in rush hour traffic because it shifts most of the power to the electric motor, reducing the wear and tear on your gas motor, as well as reducing your overall fuel consumption.
The CR-Z has a 1.5-liter V-Tec motor, as well as an integrated IMA motor assist, which provides not just an impressive fuel economy but also a higher performance level than most hybrids. The IMA powered by a battery pack that is low in the body structure providing a better center of gravity. The electric motor gives this vehicle and abundance of lower torque performance, so it accelerates quickly of the line.
There are also two different choices when it comes to transmission. One is the six-speed manual, standard in this model but also the first in any production hybrid. Six speeds help optimize the motor’s capabilities. If you choose the CVT automatic transmission, you will still be about the get engagement and excitement through the use of paddle shifters that have been inspired by race cars.
The Honda CR-Z also has superior handling than most other hybrids. This has a lot to do with its wide tires, lower overall height, and center of gravity. It also has a much-improved front suspension, with a torsion-bean suspension in the rear. This gives it a better quality of ride, more stability on the road, and greater agility when it comes to turning, especially on winding mountain roads.
The exterior has a sleek and aerodynamic design, large 16″ wheels, and a wide opening rear hatch. It is a two-seat coupe, which only enhances its sporty look. It is as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside as well. The driver-centric controls, mostly on the steering wheel give the driver greater control, while keeping their eyes on the road. It is available with a satellite navigation system that has voice recognition, as well as a hands-free Bluetooth system for calling ahead without taking your hands off the wheel. It also includes a USB interface, allowing you to bring along your MP3 player, so you can listen to your own music on the 160-watt sound system. The EX model offers a more powerful 360 watt amplifier and speaker system.
The CR-X with all the accessories, including the three-mode drive, Eco assist, vehicle stability assist, and all the standard safety features, has a starting price tag of just over $19,000. The CR-Z EX, has the 360 watt sound system, the Blue Tooth features, ant other features. This model has HID, or High-Intensity Discharge headlights, fog lamps, leather wrapped shifter and steering wheel, as well as the textured aluminum gas and brake pedals. This model starts at just under $21,000.
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