Honda CR-Z Concept Car
Japanese manufacturer Honda will unveil the Compact Renaissance Zero (CR-Z) concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show later this month. This compact and lightweight sports car could pave the way for the return of the CR-X, a compact front wheel drive sports car from the mid 1980's.
The CR-Z concept features a petrol-electric hybrid engine that delivers performance car thrills while also looking after the environment. The exterior profile and rear glass end shows hints of the CR-X plus modern go-fast styling cues such as LED headlights, 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes and centrally mounted dual exhausts.
‘CR-Z’ stands for ‘Compact Renaissance Zero’—an expression intended to capture the idea of a renaissance in the design of compact cars that begins anew from fundamentals. This design research model of a lightweight hybrid sports car features advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all while reducing the vehicle’s environmental footprint.
Exterior design
Designed to be ‘Futuristic and Dynamic’, the CR-Z combines powerful performance in a compact form with a futuristic image. For its frontal view, an over-sized grill with a high-performance look is offset by openings on each side that lighten the overall feel. In the rear, tube-shaped rear combination lamps ensure better rearward visibility. Design details emphasizing the CR-Z’s advanced image include door mirrors that provide high visibility in a stylish form, LED headlights patterned after luminous bodies to convey a sharp impression, and jauntyfin-shaped sub-lights. Large, 19-inch wheels are ready for dynamic driving performance.
Interior design
The key words for the CR-Z’s interior design are ‘Hi-tech and Sporty’. The goal was to create an all-new sporty interior that fuses the liberating feel of airy spaciousness with an advanced interface that brings out the fun of the drive. Mesh material on a simple framework construction is used throughout the interior to convey a light, sophisticated image without being oppressive. In the cockpit, the meter unit conveys the image of advanced technology ensconced in a piece of glass artwork, offering the functionality of immediate recognition while enhancing the driving experience with a futuristic and exhilarating feeling.
