Model Tested: EX with navigation

Story: Michael Crenshaw

Don’t let the numbers fool you. Those skimpy power figures don’t tell the whole story behind this 2,637-pound hybrid compact. Following in the footsteps of its elder, the CRX, Honda has made the CR-Z a spiritual successor that hits on all the high notes. Yes, it’s a hybrid, but that doesn’t mean it’s a boring pencil- pusher’s car (sorry, Prius). With the availability of a row-your-own six-speed manual, the CR-Z doesn’t hide the fact that you can actually have fun while giving a hat tip to the environment.

Being able to cop up to 37 mpg and still wring the neck of this little hatch is like throwing up your middle finger and saluting the people who said you couldn’t have fun in something eco. The chassis is rigid yet forgiving, though some wider, more low-profile tires would eliminate body roll when pushing the li’l guy.

If you’re jonesing to get giddy with the throttle but still have a penchant for making friends with the trees, the CR-Z features three different driving modes: Econ for getting green on the cheap with fuel sippin’; Normal for, well, normal driving; and Sport for using the car like a slingshot. All in all, the CR-Z is a refreshing take on the not-so-sporty hybrids out there. Get in and light it up with the green movement.

Specs:

Damage: $22,560

Power: 122hp, 128 lb.-ft.

0-60: 9.7 secs.

Gas Cash: 31 city, 37 hwy

Miles Driven: 450