Stoner, Pedrosa, Dovizioso Promote the Honda CR-Z

Repsol Honda MotoGP riders Dani Pedrosa, Andrea Dovizioso and Casey Stoner have shown their support for the new sporty Honda CR-Z by displaying the logo on their racing leathers, the Japanese automaker announced while releasing a set of photos to prove it.

“We are delighted to support Honda Cars in 2011 season. The CR-Z is a great looking sporty car and the marriage of Honda automotive hybrid technology and our race bred technology from Moto GP is a perfect match,” stated Shuhei Nakamoto- Executive Vice President of Honda Racing Corporation.

The 2011 Honda CR-Z is powered by a 1.5-liter iVTEC 4-cylinder engine that works with Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system. The power unit is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, which is a first for any mass-produced hybrid. Moreover, an automatic CVT is also available and comes with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The car’s three driving modes of Econ, Sport and Normal allows the driver to configure the vehicle's responsiveness, while the Eco Assist and Eco Scoring functions help in driving more economically.

“CR-Z has been designed as the first sporty hybrid coupe to dispel the myths that hybrids are not fun to drive. The CR-Z has a 3-mode drive system, providing an entertaining driving experience combined with low emissions. Being part of MotoGP this season further helps emphasise the message that the CR-Z is fun to drive, and will raise awareness of the car to a wider audience,” added Tom Gardner - General Manager - Cars Honda Motor Europe.