2016 Honda CR-Z


Honda has taken the wraps off the 2016MY CR-Z which comes with a series of enhancements. The CR-Z received some updates in Japan a few months ago and now the company’s U.S. division has applied some upgrades in time for the 2016 model year and they say the coupe now has a “more chiseled look.” It appears to be a little bit sharper than before thanks to the revised angular grille, blade-like front diffuser and the triangular fog light wells while the full-length side garnishes give it a more muscular stance. The rear end has also gone through some mild surgery where the rear bumper has a new configuration.

Stepping inside the cabin, the door handles have received a new brushed metallic finish also noticeable on the center console and front paneling. There’s a new range-topping EX-L Navi trim that comes with heated and leather seats featuring a contrasting stitch pattern. Honda also made some changes to the center console that rises between the center console and incorporates deep storage compartment and a new armrest. The additional necessary room was obtained by installing a standard electric parking brake while push button start/stop and smart entry also come as standard for the 2016 model year.


Regardless of trim, all versions come with a 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen and if you upgrade to the EX or EX-L Navi trims, Honda will also offer their LaneWatch system which shows a wide-angle view of the passenger side roadway on the infotainment’s screen. The aforementioned EX-L Navi top-spec model adds Honda Satellite-linked navigation with support for digital traffic and voice recognition.

Power comes from the same 4-cylinder 1.5-liter engine working together with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. This gives the 2016 CR-Z a combined output of 130 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 190 Nm with the six-speed manual or 172 Nm with the optional CVT.


Available on order starting tomorrow, the 2016 Honda CR-Z kicks off at US$ 20,295 for the base LX with the manual gearbox and rises to US$ 25,090 for the top-spec EX-L Navi with the CVT.