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Honda CR-Z MUGEN in the Works

The European arm of MUGEN, Honda’s in-house tuner, is currently working on a high-performance version of the CR-Z that will make its world debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. The CR-Z MUGEN will reportedly deliver “Type R-like” performance from the hybrid powertrain, and the company also hopes for better fuel economy as compared to the standard production version.

“We wanted to extend the performance of the CR-Z,”
says Hiro Toyoda of MUGEN Euro. “It is already a fun car to drive, with an excellent chassis, but we thought that with more power and enhanced torque delivery it could be even more exciting. However, as with all MUGEN projects, we have stayed true to the Honda design and philosophy, and the electric motor is still a vital ingredient to boost performance and economy.”

Specifically, the 1.5-liter i-VTEC petrol engine will get a boost in power and torque, while bespoke brakes and suspension will be fitted to improve the chassis dynamics.

In addition, the vehicle with come with various changes made to the exhaust induction that could result in better mileage and lower CO2 emissions, depending on some conditions.

In order to reduce the vehicle’s weight, MUGEN will use light components, such as a carbon fiber bonnet and allow wheels. Other extra body parts include front and rear bumpers, and a spoiler.

“This will be one quick hybrid,” says Martin Moll, Head of Marketing for Honda (UK). “With more torque, more power and MUGEN’s experience of working with Honda cars, we’re expecting great things. It promises to show how hybrid cars can be even more exciting to drive.”

Honda says at this stage, the CR-Z MUGEN is being developed purely as a one-off prototype, with no plans for a production version.
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