Honda CR-Z Mugen RZ

The standard Honda CR-Z coupé certainly boasts striking looks. But it’s not particularly quick and, despite having a hybrid powertrain, it’s not especially efficient either.

So perhaps the limited edition RZ from tuning firm Mugen is the car that the CR-Z should always have been? Abandoning any claims to be a green alternative, the focus is purely on performance.

Bolting a supercharger onto the 1.5 litre petrol engine means it produces 154 bhp (115 kW / 156 PS) rather than the usual 119 bhp (89 kW / 121 PS), while the Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system continues to contribute an extra 20 bhp (15 kW / 20 PS).

Unfortunately the effect of that extra power is unknown, as Mugen has yet to release any acceleration figures.

Nevertheless, the RZ should be able to cope with the engine modifications, as the package also features various chassis upgrades. These include 17” forged alloy wheels that come shod with 205/45R17 Dunlop Direzza ZII tyres, five-stage adjustable suspension and stronger front brakes.

There’ll be no mistaking the RZ, thanks to its unique Azure Blue paint finish and body kit. Mugen reckons that the latter improves the aerodynamics, and it comprises a front spoiler, side skirts, a rear diffuser and an adjustable carbon fibre rear wing.

The colour theme continues inside, where the upholstery is black and blue two-tone. There’s also a carbon fibre gearshift knob, a boost gauge and a plaque that shows the build number.

Only 300 examples of the Honda CR-Z Mugen RZ are going to be built, and the bad news is that they will only be available in Japan.

The price has been set at ¥4,494,000 (including 5% consumption tax), and sales begin on the 26th of November.

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