Honda Malaysia today launched the long-awaited All-New CR-Z, making Malaysia the first country in Southeast Asia to offer this award-winning hot-hatch hybrid to car enthusiasts. The sleek, aerodynamic and environmental friendly All-New CR-Z is the world’s first vehicle to combine a hybrid system with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Speaking at the launch of the All-New CR-Z, Mr. Yoichiro Ueno, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia said, “As the pioneer in introducing Hybrid technology in Malaysia, we are pleased to introduce and offer Malaysians another hybrid vehicle option today. The Insight received overwhelming response since its launch at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show last year and over 4,000 units of the Insights are now running on the roads in Malaysia. Seeing the success of the Insight, we were confident with the growing acceptance of Hybrid technology in this country and decided to launch CR-Z.” The CR-Z is the third hybrid vehicle that Honda introduces to Malaysians, after the Honda Civic Hybrid and Honda Insight.
Mr. Ueno also elaborated on the concept of the CR-Z and Honda’s passion for developing green technologies. He added, “Our passion is always to expand the potential for hybrid vehicles and create the joy of driving for our customers. The All-New CR-Z was developed to offer three core values, which are EMOTION look and feel; EXCITEMENT and joy in driving, and SMART driving to enable drivers to be environmentally responsible. CR-Z stands for “Compact Renaissance Zero”, which represents Honda’s commitment to go back to the basics to take on the challenge to create a new compact car without being bound by the values of a traditional hybrid.”
“We believe that the All-New CR-Z would bring more joy to the Malaysian market as it fits the Malaysian lifestyle. We are confident that the award-wining hot-hatch hybrid will break new grounds in the automotive choices for Malaysians – not only with its futuristic look and feel, but also its unique balance between fun driving performance and fuel economy. The CR-Z was awarded the 2010/2011 Car of the Year (COTY) in Japan as well as the 2010 Top Gear Green Car of the Year in the UK.”
Mr. Ueno also expressed his delight that the Malaysian government has recently announced in the Budget 2012 to continue the full exemption of import duty and excise duty for Hybrid models until December 2013. He commented, “We believe that the launch of the All-New CR-Z will support the government’s effort to reduce CO2 emissions and to ensure sustainable development of the nation.”
The design concept of the CR-Z effectively combines the aesthetic beauty of an automobile with the advanced and clean image of a hybrid vehicle. In line with its overall concept, the CR-Z’s stylish aerodynamic bullet design directs airflow to reduce drag and improve overall performance while lowering fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Along with its intelligent, functional and futuristic interior design, the CR-Z exudes a sense of superior quality while giving the driver an exciting ride.
Technically, the CR-Z is designed to deliver exceptional fuel economy while offering an entertaining and engaging driving experience. It combines an efficient 84-kilowatt (114PS) 1.5L SOHC i-VTEC engine, a 10-kilowatt (14PS) electric motor and a sophisticated Intelligent Power Unit (IPU). The flexibility of the IMA Hybrid System means that it can be used with a manual gearbox. The 6-speed manual gearbox is considered the optimum gearbox for a responsive drive.
The intelligent manual transmission CR-Z is also equipped with the Hill-Start Assist function, a confidence-enhancing feature that helps prevent roll back when starting from a stop on a hill. The technology is able to determine the degree of incline and maintain brake pressure temporarily to prevent rollback when the driver lets up on the pedal.
To further enhance the driving experience, the All-New CR-Z is the first model to feature Honda’s versatile 3-Mode Drive System, which enable the driver to choose and switch modes seamlessly depending on their driving style and road situation. The three modes in the CR-Z alters the responses of the throttle, steering, idle stop timing, climate control and the level of assistance provided by the IMA Hybrid System. The individual modes are also indicated on the Illuminated Advance Sports Meter as glowing colored rings of light.
SPORT
The engine response and motor assist of the CR-Z is finely tuned during SPORT mode. Acceleration is more powerful and steering feedback is tighter. This transmission ratio enhances Electric Power Steering (EPS) response for a sporty steering feel and improved performance. During SPORT mode, the light on the Illuminated Advance Sports Meter is red.
NORMAL
In NORMAL mode, there is optimum balance between driving performance and fuel economy. Likewise, the EPS response is balanced, smooth and agile. This mode is suitable for most driving situations.
ECON
The ECON mode prioritizes fuel economy over engine response. It reduces throttle response, optimises motor assist, controls the air conditioning economically and lengthens idle stops to maximize fuel efficiency. The Eco Assist function provides the driver with guidance on optimizing fuel efficiency.
During NORMAL and ECON mode, the glowing colored rings of light in the Illuminated Advance Sports Meter changes from blue to blue-green to green depending on the driver’s style of driving. Blue is uneconomical driving; blue-green is moderate fuel-efficiency; and green signifies fuel-efficient driving.
In terms of safety standard, the All-New CR-Z has been rated one of Japan’s safest cars in 2010, having been awarded the 6-Star JNCAP rating. The CR-Z is equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) which offers a more stable and sturdier drive while the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure enhances self-protection. The CR-Z also complies with Pedestrian Impact Requirements where head and chest injuries to the pedestrian are minimised during an accident.
The All-New CR-Z is targeted at eco-conscious individuals who are interested in a hybrid vehicle that caters to their fun, active lifestyle. It is also targeted at independent young professionals who recognize the value of advanced technologies, which allows them to strike a balance between practical, fuel-efficient driving and an exciting driving experience.
The All-New CR-Z comes in Premium White Pearl. Honda Malaysia targets to sell 100 units of the CR-Z by end of 2011.
Starting today, customers can place their booking for the All-New CR-Z at any authorised Honda dealers nationwide. For more information, please call Honda Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020, or log on to www.honda.com.my
Honda CR-Z Specifications
Engine Capacity
1497cc
No. Of Cylinders
4-cylinders, in-line
Power
91 kW @ 6100 rpm
Torque
174 Nm @ 1500 rpm
Transmission
6-speed manual
Drive type
Front-wheel drive
Acceleration
0-100 km/h in 10.0 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed
200 km/h (claimed)
Fuel Consumption
5.0 l/100km (claimed combined)
