The all-new 2013 Honda CR-Z Hybrid Coupe brings decent improvements over the previous model, which was launched back in 2010. This vehicle proves that hybrids can deliver great performances, but Honda didn’t quite managed to offer the best fuel consumption. Few things have changed with 2013 model, including a new grille and bumper, revised front styling, an air inlet molding, and daytime LED running lights in the headlamps.

Both European and US models have the same powertrain but slight differences in the looks, nothing big. Under the hood there is a 1.5 liter gasoline engine that is paired with electric motor. Total output of the system is 133 hp that is 11 hp more than the previous generation. According to the numbers this vehicle is not faster for about 0.7 seconds in acceleration from 0 to 62 mph or 0 to 100 km/h.

Unusually for hybrids, CR-Z buyers can choose between a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) or a rare six-speed manual gearbox. The latter feels much more sporty, and occasionally gives the electric power boost from the mild hybrid system the feel of a turbocharger kicking in. There’s a fuel-economy penalty to be paid for picking the manual, though–the CVT produces higher gas mileage, at the expense of driver involvement. Sadly, the CR-Z lacks the handling prowess that its sporty lines hint at, with the feeling of a higher center of mass than you’d expect for a small coupe, producing body roll and a lack of eagerness.

Honda offers three driving modes — Sport, Normal, and Economy — to let drivers chose to optimize fuel efficiency or maximize performance. The software in each recalibrates the engine and transmission mapping and adjusts the stiffness and speed of the power steering and throttle response. The CR-Z’s character changes for the better in Sport mode, feeling more nimble and responsive behind the wheel.

In the Sport mode, that was also available in previous model, we are getting faster response from the gasoline engine and extra boost is delivered from electric motor for better performances. There is also a Sport plus button placed on the steering wheel and when pressed it delivers additional power from electric motor that will give everything it got for up to ten seconds. This is good when you are overtaking or merging and you need additional power.

The Normal mode that will allow you to drive it with a good engine response and the help of the electric motor. In this mode better fuel economy will be achieved. For highest fuel economy you will need to use Eco mode and in this mode engine responds much slower and shut downs at lights more often. Because of the diminished throttle response we could be pretty slow on the road and that can be frustrating so we recommend that the Normal mode is used at least.

Standard features in the CR-X have included automatic climate control, keyless entry, power accessories, and a six-speaker sound system with USB connectivity. But Bluetooth connectivity is reserved for the EX models. Otherwise a 360-watt premium sound system, bundled with a navigation system, is also on offer.

According to EPA this car can achieve 34 mpg in combined drive cycle while on highway it is rated to 38 mpg. These figures can be significantly higher and we were able to see some test results where mix driving delivered 37 mpg while the highway drive returned 41 mpg in normal driving conditions. Have in mind that this mostly depends on the way you drive.

A snappy manual gearshift and nimble handling also make the CR-Z a lot of fun to throw around, even if the ride feels a little firm sometimes. Refinement is good around town but some wind and tire noise does creep in at higher speeds. What we need to add is that the seats are simply not comfortable and no matter how you set up the seats and wheel you will not get into comfortable position.

Related posts:

• Toyota Prius C bests other electric cars, earns 1st place on ACEEE's greenest list
  Carmakers have provided consumers with an impressive array of efficient vehicle options for 2013 according to new environmental automotive ratings. Th...
• Honda Fit EV comes to the US East Coast Markets
  The all-electric 2013 Honda Fit EV, first launched in California and Oregon in July 2012, is coming to select East Coast markets later this month, Ame...
• McLaren P1 Supercar Plug-in Hybrid
  Who said that hybrid and electric vehicles are slow and intended only for driving around the city? Believe it or not, McLaren's P1 Supercar is a plug-...
• 2013 Nissan Leaf comes to the UK
  Nissan manufactures electric vehicles in its home country, Japan. To date, about 50,000 Nissan Leaf EVs have been sold worldwide. Production of the up...
• Hyundai opens zero emission fuel cell car assembly line
  Hyundai has opened the Ulsan factory in Korea where the future zero emission, hydrogen powered models will be manufactured. It has become the world's ...