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Honda CR-Z Gasoline, Type R Under Consideration

After the Japanese carmaker rolled out the so-called CR-Z Hybrid R at the 2010 SEMA Show in November, Honda is reportedly planning a gasoline version of the car that would combine high power with increased efficiency. The car model could be only offered in a limited number of markets where the hybrid CR-Z registered high sales, but this is yet to be confirmed, as Autocar noted today.

It appears that the only engine version Honda currently takes into consideration is a 1.6-liter gasoline unit with turbocharging that would be offered in two different power options. The base one would generate around 160 horsepower while the second one would undergo several modifications to bring the power limit to 200 horsepower and thus become appropriate for a potential CR-Z Type R.

Of course, the Type R is still in doubt but, in case the rumors prove to be true, the car won't arrive sooner than late 2011.

The aforementioned source reports that Honda is already testing the new 1.6-liter at its Tochigi R&D center, with plans also pointing that it could be used on future versions of Jazz, Civic and Accord.

The Type R CR-Z would pretty much make sense, mostly because the Hybrid R version showcased in Las Vegas was created mostly to demonstrate how the Honda Performance Development unit tries to raise the output limit on Honda's base models. For the R, the IMA hybrid system on the CR-Z has been upgraded and turbocharged, now spitting some 200 horsepower and 175 lb-ft. of torque. Other tweaks include the addition of performance clutch, limited-slip differential, circuit-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes and aerodynamic components.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
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Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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