Honda Unveils 2013 CR-Z Hybrid, Features Knight Rider-esque Turbo Button
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Honda's 2012 CR-Z hybrid was a generally well received vehicle when it debuted last year and its 2013 model is looking even better. For its latest incarnation, the CR-Z gets Honda's exclusive Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, Bluetooth Audio and a rearview camera standard. Oh, and let's not forget its new Knight Rider-style turbo boost feature.
Inside, Honda says the CR-Z gets an all new high-tech appearance including the aforementioned HandsFreeLink, which allows users to link their smartphone or iPod to the CR-Z's infotainment system via Bluetooth, letting you listen to music and make hands-free calls. Pandora Internet radio, satellite navigation and SMS text messaging functionality are also available.
Starting at $19,975, the CR-Z draws its power from a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine and a 15 kW electric motor running off of a 144-volt lithium-ion battery to produce a total of 130 horsepower and 140 lb.-ft. of torque. Fuel mileage numbers are estimated at 36 miles per gallon in the city, 39 MPG on the highway and 37 combined MPG.
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Driving modes include Econ, which limits engine power in favor of increased fuel economy; Normal, for standard driving and Sport mode, which increases throttle response and improves steering.
Even cooler, Honda has added a Plus Sport feature, that, when the battery has more than 50 percent power and you are driving more than 19 miles per hour, can be activated to give the CR-Z a power boost from its electric motors for 5 seconds. When active, the feature flashes an icon on the dashboard. So, it's basically like a turbo button in a video game, just in real life.