Honda CR-Z

• Rating:
• For : Efficient hybrid, striking looks, nimble handling balance
• Against : Cramped interior, lacks genuine performance, expensive

The Honda CR-Z is billed as the world's first hybrid sports car, and also the first car of its type to come equipped with a petrol-electric drivetrain that's mated with a manual gearbox. Despite the swept-back coupe styling, the CR-Z is front-wheel drive only and there's just one engine option. The 1.5-litre petrol is assisted by a battery pack and a 10bhp electric motor. The CR-Z's two-door coupe styling sacrifices interior space and it's strictly a two-seater.

Our pick: 1.5i V-TEC Sport 3dr

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the CR-Z

Styling

Despite looking very futuristic, the Honda CR-Z actually took its design inspiration from the iconic eighties CR-X hot hatch. Featuring LED running lights on the front bumper and a sloping glass roof, it will definitely get you noticed. Each trim level - S, Sport and GT - looks identical from the outside.

Interior

Inside, Sport trim adds alloy pedals and rear parking sensors, while the GT comes with sat-nav and plush leather upholstery. The centre console is angled towards the driver, and the dials light up with different colours depending on which driving mode you're in.

Driving and Performance

The 1.5-litre VTEC engine under the bonnet produces 112bhp which, combined with the 10bhp and extra torque from the electric motor, helps propel the CR-Z from 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds and on to a 124mph top speed. Those aren't figures to set the world alight, but the low-slung suspension and accurate steering make for entertaining handling. There are three driving modes - eco, sport and normal - with sport offering sharper steering and improved throttle response. The low set driving position feels sporty, and the sporty six-speed manual gearbox adds to the driver appeal. While the ride is firm it's never uncomfortable, making the CR-Z a good cruiser.

MPG and running costs

This is where the CR-Z impresses. Its headline figures of 56.5mpg and 117g/km might not beat the best diesels around - the sporty Volkswagen Scirocco included - but are still very competitive for a car of this type and level of performance, and mean fuel bills should be kept to a minimum. The CR-Z comes equipped with start and stop as standard helping to save more fuel. It qualifies for free road tax in the first year of ownership but it's no longer exempt from the Congestion Charge.

Practicality

The combination of a very low roofline and the set of batteries in the boot limits the CR-Z's practicality. There's plenty of room for two adults up front, but the rear seats are incredibly cramped and are only really suitable for small children. Most owners are likely to keep them folded flat, which increases boot space from 225-litres to a more usable 401-litres.

Safety and reliability

Despite its complicated drivetrain, the CR-Z is unlikely to encounter many mechanical issues. The battery technology is the same system used in the Honda Civic hybrid, which has had no major problems since its release. The company performed very well in our Driver Power survey, finishing 12th out of 34. Safety is equally impressive, and the CR-Z scored the maximum five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests, with a 93 per cent rating for adult occupant protection. Traction control, six airbags and emergency brake assist are all fitted as standard.

Model Variants and Specifications

• Honda CR-Z 1.5 IMA S £17360
• Honda CR-Z 1.5 IMA Sport £18380
• Honda CR-Z 1.5 IMA GT £20425
• Honda CR-Z 1.5 IMA GT Navigation £22210