The latest issue (4.25.15) of Japan's Holiday Auto magazine features a rendering of their interpretation of the next-generation CR-Z on the cover.

For the new model, Honda has reportedly aimed to improve the CR-Z's rear headroom, and this sketch seems to show a CR-Z that's taller with a slightly more conservative roofline compared to the current CR-Z.

There are thoughts that this new CR-Z could go on sale (in Japan) as early as this autumn. At the moment, the rumor mill suggest that the standard CR-Z will feature a 1.0L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, coupled to Honda's 7-speed Sport Hybrid i-DCD (Intelligent Dual-Clutch Drive) system. Output levels for this powertrain are said to be similar to the CR-Z's current setup. There's also some scuttlebutt that a "performance" model with 1.5L VTEC Turbo will also be offered. It may even carry a Type-R badge. Power levels for this model could potentially exceed the 200hp level. The 1.0T version will feature fuel economy levels that are competitive with the Prius, while the performance model will offer impressive performance car while still delivering strong efficiency.

Though the CR-Z was hugely successful in Japan in the early years of its current model cycle, it struggled to gain traction in the US market, with many potential buyers bemonaing its lack of potency. Many loved the car's styling and the CR-Z's potential to revive the spirit of Honda's legendary CRX, but the combination of the added mass of the CR-Z's IMA Hybrid system and relatively low system output basically extinguished those hopes. And the CR-Z's torsion beam rear suspension did it no favors in the eyes of hard-core enthusiasts. Perhaps this rumored "performance" model will hold enough appeal to finally attract North American enthusiasts this time around?

We were not even sure whether or not there would be a next-generation CR-Z offered in the North American market, so we reached out to American Honda representative, Robyn Eagles for comment, and her official response was "We will be making an announcement related to CR-Z very soon. Stay tuned."




http://www.motormagazine.co.jp/

Last edited by JeffX on March 09, 2015 12:12