Given that the standard CR-Z is likely to offer very modest performance with its 122-horsepower gas-electric drivetrain, the move to build a hotter version is a sensible one.
But don't expect Honda to put the high-revving Civic Si engine in this car. Rather, the Honda CR-Z Type R would still be a hybrid. We've heard one scenario that suggests the Type R would get a modified version of the base hatchback's 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with about 20 extra horsepower. Combine that with a larger electric motor, and the car's total output would land in the 160-170-hp range.
Look for the CR-Z Type R to get a slightly lowered ride height, more aggressive dampers and larger brakes to cope with the extra power. We expect Honda to fit larger wheels (17s or 18s) and lower-profile tires as well.
On the cosmetic side, a black-and-white color scheme and a modest body kit are on order. The Mugen CR-Z slated for Japan has already been seen with such a kit.
Sales of the standard Honda CR-Z Hybrid are scheduled to begin late this summer. If Honda approves the CR-Z Type R (or in U.S.-market terminology, CR-Z Si) for production, it probably wouldn't make it to the U.S. until the first quarter of 2011 at the earliest.
Inside Line says: A CR-Z Type R would be closer to the original spirit of the Honda CRX. — Erin Riches, Senior Editor
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