Honda CR-Z Type R Expected in 2011

The Type R designation will make it to the CR-Z as well, with this particular model to have an output of approximately 200 horsepower. This is what the guys over at autoexpress.co.uk are claiming, while saying that the CR-Z will undergo a significant sport treatment courtesy of Mugen, Honda's tuning division.

First of all, the engine will be a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine plus a petrol-electric configuration that will roll out a maximum power of around 200 horsepower. The engine will obviously undergo some upgrades, but details are not yet unknown. The 200+ hp output translates into a maximum speed of around 140 mph (225 km/h) and a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 6 seconds.

Other sporty enhancements will be provided as well, including sport seats, improved brakes, tuned suspension and several exterior styling upgrades that will contribute to a more aggressive stance on the road.

The aforementioned source says the car will be released at the Tokyo Motor Show next year, while sales will commence soon after this public display.

Meanwhile, Honda will reveal at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in March the European CR-Z, the car that is expected to hit the stores this summer. Power comes from a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine mated to Honda IMA hybrid system which together release emissions of just 117 g/km.

“The CR-Z is a great-looking, sporty car – that’s also a hybrid,” said Tom Gardner, Head of Marketing, Honda UK. “Kart-like handling and direct steering will make it great fun to drive, but the hybrid system means exhaust emissions are kept low. With the torque boost of the electric motor, it’s ideally suited to ‘point-to-point’ driving in British towns and cities.”