Sneak Peek: 2013 Honda CR-Z

The European-spec 2013 Honda CR-Z will benefit from a more powerful engine and electric motor without a negative impact on emissions or fuel economy, Honda confirmed today. In advance of its Paris Motor Show debut, the 2013 Honda CR-Z has been teased with the image shown here.

While some of the European CR-Z’s visual and powertrain changes may not appear on the U.S.-market model, we already know the 2013 Honda CR-Z headed for our showrooms will receive “interior and exterior styling changes” and get a standard backup camera. When it goes on sale this fall, we’d be surprised if it doesn’t offer the LED daytime running lights shown in the Paris teaser here.

The European-spec 2013 Honda CR-Z appears to sport a revised front fascia we may get in the U.S., along with a grille that no longer includes three horizontal trim bars. The yen-U.S. dollar exchange rate may prevent our market from ever seeing a CR-Z Si, though we wouldn’t mind minor changes to the car’s power or efficiency. In a six-car comparison of inexpensive sporty front-drive cars, the Honda CR-Z placed second.

“…The little hybrid attacked the corners with gusto. Even the hybrid drivetrain had defenders, as it delivered both exceptionally smooth power and best-in-test fuel economy,” we wrote in the comparison. “Despite a surprising amount of zip from the electrically enhanced motor, we want more power from this car.”

Thanks to: Motor Trend