Honda CR-Z MUGEN To Deliver Around 200PS

A while back we were informing you that Honda’s in-house tuner, is currently working on a high-performance version of the CR-Z set to debut this July at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. Today Honda revealed further details on the subject, confirming the project remains on course.

MUGEN has revealed that the high-performance CR-Z hybrid will use a supercharger to deliver over 50 percent more power and torque from the Honda’s petrol-electric drivetrain.

The tuned version of the hybrid coupe is expected to produce around 200PS, and 181 lb.ft (245 Nm) of torque, with significantly enhanced performance throughout the rev range. The car retains the Honda IMA electric motor and the original 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, which has been rebuilt to MUGEN specification with bespoke upgraded and strengthened internal components.

In order to give a fully integrated and smooth power delivery, MUGEN Euro has developed the MUGEN iCF system, which allows all the elements of the electro-mechanical system to work in harmony.

“The idea was to use the significant advantage of the early torque provided by the Honda IMA electric motor, then increase the torque available from the petrol engine gradually, to first maintain and then increase this,” said Colin Whittamore from MUGEN Euro. “A supercharger and complementary electronics allow us to very neatly map the IMA to the extra power and torque of the engine in a unique package, giving a smooth, integrated and powerful driving experience.”

The specialists have also further developed the chassis dynamics, with 5-step adjustable dampers fitted front and rear, an increase in track width and a large reduction in overall weight.

Bigger brake discs and 4-pot monobloc callipers help stop the more powerful car, while 17-inch forged alloy MUGEN GP wheels reduce unsprung mass.

Styling wise, the CR-Z gets some cosmetic enhancements in the form of MUGEN body parts, including front and rear under spoilers, side skirts and a rear wing.