As the S2000 is already known as a balanced car with good handling and respectable performance both on and off track, the guys from Honda thought there was room for improvements.
As a result, the S2000 lost its soft top and got a new aluminium lightweight hardtop, losing about 40.8 kg in weight. In the storage area previously occupied by the soft top they added some structural bracing, in order to make the body more rigid. Other additions include firmer springs and dampers, larger stabilizer bars and wider rear tires for improved handling. The end result is a perfect 50/50 mass distribution.
The 2.2 liter VTEC engine now develops the same 240 HP at 7,800 rpm, but with an improved torque figure (220 nm at 6800 rpm). Because this is intended to be a circuit car, the aerodynamics were changed after a lot of testing in the wind tunnel. The result is a new full body aerodynamic kit, including a front lip, rear bumper, sideskirts and a big rear spoiler.
Inside of the car there are now new carbon fiber trim panels, yellow stitching for the seats and a new aluminium shift knob. Features like air conditioning and CD player are optional for the CR as these are not necessary on the race track.
The S2000CR will be available as an entirely new trim level for the S2000 and will go on sale this fall. Production numbers remain unknown so far.
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