The 2016 Honda CR-Z marked a unique entry in the hybrid vehicle market, blending sporty coupe aesthetics with fuel-efficient hybrid technology. Available in LX, EX, and EX-L Navi trims, the CR-Z offered a range of features to cater to different preferences. This article delves into the detailed specifications of the 2016 Honda CR-Z, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and automotive enthusiasts.
Engine and Performance Specs of the 2016 Honda CR-Z
Under the hood, every 2016 Honda CR-Z trim is powered by an In-Line 4-Cylinder engine with an aluminum-alloy block and cylinder head. This engine has a displacement of 1497 cc and features a 16-Valve SOHC i-VTEC® valve train for optimized performance and efficiency. The engine is equipped with Multi-Point Fuel Injection and a Drive-by-Wire Throttle System, contributing to its responsive handling and fuel economy.
Image alt text: Close-up of the engine bay of a 2016 Honda CR-Z, showcasing the In-Line 4-Cylinder engine and hybrid components.
The combined horsepower from the engine and electric motor is rated at 130 hp at 6000 rpm across all trims. Torque output varies slightly depending on the transmission. Models with the 6-Speed Manual Transmission (6MT) produce 140 lb-ft of torque at 1000-2000 rpm, while Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) models generate 127 lb-ft of torque at 1000-3000 rpm. The engine redline is set at 6300 rpm, and it has a bore and stroke of 73 mm x 89.4 mm with a compression ratio of 10.4 : 1.
Key engine features include an Electric Parking Brake and Hill Start Assist for enhanced control and convenience. The 2016 CR-Z also offers a 3-Mode Drive System (Sport/Normal/ECON) along with the Plus Sport System® to tailor the driving experience to different conditions and preferences. Honda’s Eco Assist™ System and Idle-Stop technology further contribute to fuel efficiency. The engine uses a Direct Ignition System with Immobilizer for security and requires no scheduled tune-ups until 100K +/- miles under normal driving conditions. It boasts a CARB Emissions Rating of LEV3-SULEV30, meeting stringent emissions standards.
Battery Specifications
The hybrid system in the 2016 Honda CR-Z utilizes a Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) Battery across all LX, EX, and EX-L Navi trims. This battery provides an output of 15 kW / 144V, supporting the electric motor and contributing to the vehicle’s hybrid capabilities.
Transmission Options
The 2016 Honda CR-Z offers two transmission choices: a 6-Speed Manual Transmission (6MT) and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with Paddle Shifters. The 6MT provides precise gear control, with gear ratios ranging from 3.143 (1st) to 0.689 (6th) and a final drive ratio of 4.29.
The available CVT offers smooth, gearless shifting and comes equipped with paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience when desired. The CVT gear ratios range from 3.172~0.529, with a reverse ratio of 5.666~2.167 and a final drive ratio of 4.20.
Body, Suspension, and Chassis Details
The 2016 Honda CR-Z is built with Unit-Body Construction, ensuring structural rigidity and safety. It features a MacPherson Strut Front Suspension and a Torsion-Beam Rear Suspension, balancing handling and ride comfort. Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS) contributes to responsive steering, with 2.48 steering wheel turns lock-to-lock and a steering ratio of 12.75. The turning diameter curb-to-curb is 33.5 ft.
Image alt text: Diagram illustrating the front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension system of the Honda CR-Z.
Braking is handled by Power-Assisted Ventilated Front Disc/Solid Rear Disc Brakes, with both front and rear rotors measuring 11.1 inches. All trims are equipped with 16-inch Alloy Wheels and All-Season Tires (P195/55/16 86V). A Tire Repair Kit (TRK) with 24-Hour Assistance is included for added peace of mind.
Exterior and Interior Dimensions
The 2016 Honda CR-Z has a wheelbase of 95.9 inches, an overall length of 161.5 inches, a height of 54.9 inches, and a width of 68.5 inches. The track width is 59.6 inches at the front and 59.5 inches at the rear. Curb weight varies slightly by transmission and trim level, ranging from 2648 lbs to 2747 lbs. Weight distribution is approximately 59% front and 41% rear for 6MT models, and 60% front and 40% rear for CVT models.
Inside, the 2016 CR-Z offers a driver-focused cockpit with 36.9 inches of headroom, 42.7 inches of legroom, 53.8 inches of shoulder room, and 51.5 inches of hiproom. Cargo volume behind the console is 25.1 cu ft, and the passenger volume is 49.1 cu ft. The seating capacity is designed for two passengers.
Fuel Economy and EPA Mileage Ratings
The 2016 Honda CR-Z excels in fuel efficiency thanks to its hybrid powertrain. EPA mileage ratings are identical across all trims but vary depending on the transmission.
| Transmission Type | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-Speed Manual Transmission (6MT) | 31 | 38 | 34 |
| Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) | 36 | 39 | 37 |
The fuel tank capacity is 10.6 gallons, and the vehicle requires regular unleaded fuel.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Honda prioritized safety in the 2016 CR-Z, equipping it with a comprehensive suite of safety features.
Active Safety Features
Standard active safety features across all trims include:
- Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control4
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidelines5
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)6
- Daytime Running Lights (DRL) – LED on EX and EX-L Navi, Halogen on LX
Passive Safety Features
Passive safety is enhanced by:
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure
- Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Front Airbags (SRS)
- SmartVent® Front Side Airbags
- Side Curtain Airbags
- Driver’s and Front Passenger’s Active Head Restraints
- 3-Point Seat Belts with Front Seat Automatic Tensioning System
- Driver’s and Front Passenger’s Seat-Belt Reminder
Driver Assist Technology
The EX and EX-L Navi trims further benefit from Honda LaneWatch™7, enhancing driver awareness and safety during lane changes.
Exterior, Comfort, and Convenience Features
The 2016 Honda CR-Z offers a range of exterior, comfort, and convenience features, with variations across the LX, EX, and EX-L Navi trims.
Exterior Features
Exterior features include:
- Smart Entry on all trims
- Fin-Type Roof-Mounted Antenna
- Security System with Remote Entry
- One-Touch Turn Indicators
- LED Brake Lights
- Variable Intermittent Windshield Wipers
- Reverse-Linked Intermittent Rear Window Wiper/Washer
- Push-to-Release Fuel Filler Door
- Body-Colored Door Handles
- Body-Colored Power Side Mirrors including Integrated Turn Indicators and Expanded View Driver’s Mirror (Heated on EX and EX-L Navi)
- Projector-Beam Halogen Headlights on LX, High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights with Auto-On/Off on EX and EX-L Navi
- Fog Lights on EX and EX-L Navi
Comfort and Convenience Features
Comfort and convenience highlights:
- Automatic Climate Control
- Push Button Start
- Power Windows with Auto-Up/Down Driver’s Window
- Power Door Locks
- Cruise Control
- Tilt and Telescopic Steering Column
- Beverage Holders
- Upper Instrument Panel Storage
- Door-Pocket Storage Bins
- Map Lights
- 12-Volt Power Outlet
- Glove Compartment
- Courtesy Lights
- Rear Cargo Console (behind front seats)
- Rear Window Defroster
- Retractable Cargo Area Cover
- Floor Mats
- Cargo Area Light
- Illuminated Window Switches (Driver’s window only on LX, all on EX and EX-L Navi)
- Illuminated Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls
- Driver’s and Front Passenger’s Vanity Mirrors (Driver’s only on LX, Illuminated on EX and EX-L Navi)
- Steering Wheel-Mounted Paddle Shifters (CVT models)
- Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel on EX and EX-L Navi
- Textured Aluminum Pedals on EX and EX-L Navi
- Ambient Console Lighting on EX and EX-L Navi
- Aluminum Shift Knob with Leather (6MT models on EX and EX-L Navi)
Seating and Audio & Connectivity
Seating and in-car entertainment features:
- Driver’s Seat with Manual Height Adjustment
- Leather-Trimmed Seats on EX-L Navi
- Heated Front Seats on EX-L Navi
- 160-Watt Audio System with 6 Speakers on LX, 360-Watt Premium Audio System with 7 Speakers, including Subwoofer on EX and EX-L Navi
- Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®8 and Streaming Audio8
- 7-Inch Display Audio with High-Resolution WVGA Touch-Screen
- HondaLink® Next Generation9
- Pandora®10 Compatibility
- SMS Text Message Function11
- Display Audio Interface12
- SiriusXM® Radio13
- USB Audio Interface14 (1.5-Amp and 1.0-Amp Charging Ports)
- MP3/Windows Media® Audio (WMA)15 Playback Capability
- Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (SVC)
- Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition16 and Honda HD Digital Traffic on EX-L Navi
- HD Radio™17 on EX-L Navi
Instrumentation and Multi-Information Display
The 2016 Honda CR-Z provides drivers with comprehensive vehicle information through its instrumentation and multi-information display.
Instrumentation
Instrumentation features include a range of indicators and alerts:
- 3-Mode Drive System Buttons (Normal/ECON/Sport)
- 12-Volt Battery Charging System Indicator
- ABS Indicator
- Airbag System Indicator
- Brake System Indicator
- Coolant Temperature Indicators
- Cruise Control Indicators
- Digital Speedometer
- Doors/Hatch-Open Indicator
- Electric Power Steering (EPS) Indicator
- Fuel Level Indicator
- Headlights-On Indicator
- High-Beam Indicator
- Idle-Stop Indicator
- IMA Battery State-of-Charge Indicator
- IMA Charge and Assist Indicator
- IMA System Indicator
- Immobilizer System Indicator
- Lights-On Indicator
- Low Tire-Pressure Indicator
- Low-Fuel Indicator
- Low-Oil Pressure Indicator
- Malfunction Indicator
- Passenger-Side Side Airbag-Off Indicator
- Plus Sport System® Indicator
- Seat Belts Reminder Indicator
- Security System Indicator
- System Message Indicator
- Tachometer
- TPMS Indicator
- Turn Signal/Hazard Indicators
- VSA System and VSA-Off Indicators
- Manual Mode Gear Selection Indicator (CVT models)
- Shift Up/Down Indicator (6MT models)
- Shifter Position Indicator (CVT models)
- Fog Lights Indicator (EX and EX-L Navi)
Multi-Information Display
The Multi-Information Display provides useful driving data:
- Average Fuel Economy Indicators
- Average Speed Indicator
- Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®
- Eco/Eco Score Screens
- Elapsed Time Indicator
- Exterior Temperature Indicator
- IMA System Power Flow Indicator
- Maintenance Minder™ System
- Miles-to-Empty Indicator
- Odometer and Trip Meters (2)
In conclusion, the 2016 Honda CR-Z offered a compelling package of sporty design, hybrid efficiency, and a variety of features across its trim levels. From its responsive engine and available transmissions to its safety features and technology integrations, the CR-Z aimed to deliver a unique and engaging driving experience in the hybrid segment.
Footnotes:
[1] Does not apply to fluid and filter changes. Will vary with driving conditions. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
[2] LEV3-SULEV30 models as certified by California Air Resources Board (CARB) and available in all 50 states.
[3] Based on 2016 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery-pack age/condition, and other factors.
[4] VSA is not a substitute for safe driving. It cannot correct the vehicle’s course in every situation or compensate for reckless driving. Control of the vehicle always remains with the driver.
[5] Always visually confirm that it is safe to drive before backing up; the rearview camera display does not provide complete information about all conditions and objects at the rear of your vehicle.
[6] For optimal tire wear and performance, tire pressure should be checked regularly with a gauge. Do not rely solely on the monitor system. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
[7] Display accuracy will vary based on weather, size of object and speed, and the display may not show all relevant traffic. The display is not a substitute for your own direct visual assessment of traffic conditions before changing lanes.
[8] The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.
[9] Check the HondaLink® website for smartphone compatibility.
[10] Pandora, the Pandora logo, and the Pandora trade dress are trademarks or registered trademarks of Pandora Media, Inc. Used with permission.
[11] Compatible with select phones with Bluetooth®. Your wireless carrier’s rate plans apply. State or local laws may limit use of texting feature. Only use texting feature when conditions allow you to do so safely.
[12] The Display Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and streaming from some current smartphones. Some smartphones may not work. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
[13] SiriusXM services require a subscription after any trial period. If you decide to continue your SiriusXM service at the end of your trial subscription, the plan you choose will automatically renew and bill at then-current rates until you call SiriusXM at 1-866-635-2349 to cancel. See our Customer Agreement for complete terms at www.siriusxm.com. Fees and programming subject to change. XM satellite service is available only to those at least 18 years and older in the 48 contiguous United States and D.C. ©2015 SiriusXM Radio Inc. Sirius, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SiriusXM Radio Inc.
[14] The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
[15] Windows Media® is a trademark or registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
[16] The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is standard on EX-L Navi models in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. (Honda HD Digital Traffic service only available in the United States, except Alaska). Please see your Honda dealer for details.
[17] HD Radio is a proprietary trademark of iBiquity Digital Corporation.
