2015 Honda CR-Z Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

No longer do sports car lovers have to sacrifice fuel efficiency in order to have fun. Equipped with a sporty hybrid engine, the 2015 Honda CR-Z is one of the most unique vehicles on the market. Based on the super-popular Honda CRX hatchback of yesteryear, the new 2015 Honda CR-Z is an affordable option to some of the gas-guzzling performance cars on the market. Although this sporty coupe is designed to appeal to driving enthusiasts, it is still available with a long list of features.

Top Ten Reasons to Buy a 2015 Honda CR-Z - the Pros

1) Good on Gas

Prospective buyers will love the CR-Z’s superb gas mileage. When equipped with the CVT, the CR-Z can return a whopping 39 mpg on the highway. Although fuel efficiency drops slightly with the manual gearbox, it is still very impressive. Not only does the CR-Z deliver outstanding fuel efficiency, but it also only requires regular unleaded fuel.

2) A manual transmission is offered

There are still plenty of drivers who prefer to use a traditional clutch. Fortunately, the 2015 CR-Z is available with a six-speed manual gearbox. In fact, it is the only hybrid hatchback vehicle to offer a manual transmission. The manual transmission’s crisp shifts will certainly put a smile on the driver’s face.

3) Honda reliability

It is hard to ignore Honda’s reputation for producing extremely reliable vehicles. Unsurprisingly, the Honda CR-Z has not received many reliability complaints over the last few years. This is good news for the drivers who are seeking a low-maintenance vehicle. Even after five years of ownership, the CR-Z should still perform like new.

4) Exciting hybrid engine
With an output of 130 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, the CR-Z’s hybrid engine is able to deliver a peppy performance. Although the power rating may not seem like much, it is more than enough punch to move the lightweight hatchback around. Whether the driver is commuting to work or cruising around town, the engine should provide a high degree of excitement.

5) Sport Plus button

When activated, the Sport Plus button gives the CR-Z an instantaneous boost of power. This feature is most useful when passing slow-moving vehicles and speeding away from intersections. The Sport Plus system will also come in handy when merging onto the freeway. Unlike like some of the other drive mode systems, Honda’s Sport Plus button is very simple to use.

6) Creative styling

Not everyone likes to blend in with the crowd. The CRZ’s sloped roof and aggressive front fascia will surely turn a few heads. While the base trim comes standard with 16-inch wheels, buyers can also upgrade to a set of 17-inch performance wheels. Very few hybrid vehicles can match its overall sportiness.

7) Storage space
Due to the fact that the CR-Z does not have a backseat, drivers can take full advantage of the extra cargo space. The hatchback’s design provides easy access to the storage area. From groceries to luggage, a wide variety of different items can fit comfortably in the back. A retractable cargo cover helps to hide the goods from thieves.

8) Performance-inspired interior

The CR-Z’s jazzy interior sets it apart from the other hatchback vehicles in its class. In an effort to promote an eco-friendly driving style, Honda has also included an innovative efficiency gauge. Meanwhile, the racy speedometer will keep the driver engaged at all times. Even the seats are designed to appeal to sports car fans.

9) Neat features

Fortunately, the base model comes well-equipped. Some of the standard goodies include Bluetooth connectivity, a rear-view camera, LED brake lights, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. The EX trim brings even more high-tech components to the table. While the xenon headlights enhance visibility at night, the LED running lights make the CR-Z more noticeable to oncoming traffic. Some of the other upgrades include a 6.5-inch touch-screen display and navigation.

10) HPD Street Performance

Honda’s HPD Street Performance division offers several performance parts for the 2015 CR-Z. The sports-tuned suspension system transforms the hatchback into an even better handling machine on the road. On the other hand, the dealer-installed supercharger increases the engine’s output by more than 50 horsepower. This means that the CR-Z is a legitimate contender in the “hot hatch” segment.

Reasons you may not want to buy a 2015 Honda CR-Z - The Cons

1) No backseat

Unfortunately, the 2015 Honda CR-Z is strictly a two-passenger vehicle. Instead of a backseat, the hatchback is designed with a storage shelf. Drivers who have small children will have to search for another option.

2) Not fast in its stock form

In order to get the most performance out of the CR-Z, owners may need to install a few upgrades. Although the car is fun to drive, some of its rivals are faster.

3) Four-star safety rating

Most drivers will be satisfied with the CR-Z’s four-star safety rating. However, some of the competition was able to obtain a five-star safety rating.

How it stacks up to the competition:

One of the CR-Z’s main competitors is the Toyota Prius C. While the Toyota Prius C delivers slightly better gas mileage, the CR-Z is far more engaging to drive.

Conclusion:

With a starting price of around $20,000, the 2015 Honda CR-Z proves to be an outstanding bargain. Even the base model now comes standard with a rear-view camera. The hatchback’s fun-to-drive character also gives it a big advantage over the competition. Young drivers are sure to fall in love with the CR-Z's creative interior.