After announcing its inclusion in their stable of vehicles, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) launched the all-new CR-Z, its Sport Hybrid Coupe on August 5, 2013, at the NBC Tent in Taguig City.
The letters CR-Z stands for Compact Renaissance Zero, which represents Honda’s commitment to got back to the point of origin (zero) to take on the challenge to create a new compact car without being bound by the values of traditional coupes. “It is my privilege to be able to able to bring this product tot the Philippines. With this produce we aim to provide an unparalleled driving experience and rest assured we heard what Filipinos want from Honda. The New Honda has arrived,” said HCPI’s President and General Manager, Mr. Tatsuya Natsume.
The All New CR-Z uses a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine as the main source of power with an electric motor, Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA). Honda’s Sport Hybrid Coupe enables drivers to have an exciting driving experience, while enjoying exceptional fuel efficiency.
To further enhance the driving experience, Honda developed two systems – the 3-Mode Drive System and the Plus-Sport System – that allows the driver to choose how the hybrid system is used, whether for added performance or for efficiency. The 3-Mode Drive System allows drivers to freely shift from Sport, Normal or Econ modes, depending on their preference or requirement. The system applies integrated control over the engine’s Drive by Wire, motor assist, CVT shift management, electric power steering and air conditioner. The Plus-Sport System or the S+ Button uses the charge from the battery to power the electronic motor that results in an additional boost in acceleration comparable to a 3.0L V6 engine.
The all-new CR-Z is rated to deliver a maximum of 136 ps @ 6600 rpm and maximum torque of 19.4 kg-m for the 6-speed manual transmission and 135 ps @ 6600 rpm and maximum torque of 17.4 kg-m for the Continuously Variable transmission (CVT 7-speed mode with paddle shifters).
“The arrival of the CR-Z means a lot to Honda, we feel that this particular model was able to connect to Filipinos. Since then, we thought of giving each customer a more personal approach in choosing his CR-Z and decided to offer 3 feature-packed variants, 2 transmission options and 6 colors,” Natsume said.
The Standard model is equipped with projector-type HID headlights, LED park lights, front fog lights, rain sensing front wipers, LED taillights, intermittent rear windshield wiper and 17” alloy wheels. This variant retails at Php 1,390,000 for the manual transmission and Php 1,480,000 for CVT with Paddle Shifters.
The CR-Z Modulo variant is equipped with Carbon Fiber finish under spoiler set, ducktail-type tailgate spoiler and Modulo emblem. This variant is priced at Php 1,470,000 for the manual transmission and Php 1,560,000 for CVT with Paddle Shifters.
For the first time, HCPI is introducing a CR-Z Mugen variant which is equipped with under spoiler set, Mugen front grille, wing-type tailgate spoiler, Mugen light-weight 17” alloy wheels, Mugen exhaust system, Aero Illumination (LED Daytime Running Lights), rear fog lights, carbon fiber mirror cover and shift knob (for manual transmission only), Mugen emblem and Mugen floor mats. As expected, this variant is the priciest of the lot, pegged at Php 1,860,000 for the manual transmission and Php 1,950,000 for CVT with Paddle Shifters.
The All New CR-Z is available in six colors, namely White Pearl, Crystal Black, Polished Metal, Milano Red, Premium Golden Purple Pearl and an exclusive color for the CR-Z the Turquoise Blue.
Check out this album for more pics from the launch.
[dmalbum path=”/wp-content/uploads/dm-albums/[email protected]/Honda CR-Z Launch 20130805/”/]
Photos by Christopher Kho