The revamped new CR-Z Sport and the unrivalled innovation of Honda
When we think of innovation, the world of gadgetry and computers immediately springs to mind for many of us. Whilst there is a high demand for continuing evolution and advances in technology and computing, the automotive industry is one industry that is increasingly demanding innovation in a way which is incomparable with previous decades.
The Japanese car manufacturing giants Honda are at the heart of this automotive innovation and this is effectively highlighted within its UK division, where improvement and expansion is at its heart. In 2009, Honda released two documentary-style films, titled 'Failure: The Secret to Success' and 'Kick out the Ladder'. In its first film, Honda noted that failure is not only acceptable, but it is even expected if a company is to advance successfully and effectively. When a company is willing to take risks and push the boundaries fully, failure is inevitably going to occur. It is this attitude, according to Honda, that ultimately breeds success.
In its second film, 'Kick out the Ladder', Honda talks about the need to push the goalposts of an organisation in order to develop and continue succeeding. Create extreme goals, Honda insists, and you will reach them through creative thinking. Proof of Honda's commitment to pushing the boundaries can be seen in the innovative vehicles which the company regularly churns out. Take, for example, the new Honda CRZ Sport. In September this year, Honda unveiled its face-lifted version of the CR-Z compact sports hybrid at the Indonesia International Motor Show.
The vastly improved CR-Z has many changes externally, including a revised front bumper, a redesigned front grille, which no longer has its vertical bars, new fog lamps and HID headlamps with LED daytime running lights, LED rear lights, reshaped door mirrors and rear diffuser and new 17-inch alloy wheels. With its two-tone red fabric seats, internally the CR-Z Sport, which stands for Compact Renaissance Zero, is as stunning and elegant as its interior. Similar to Honda Civic cars which are hybrid, the CR-Z hybrid is clearly designed for fuel economy. For some, this emphasis on remaining an economical drive means the car lacks speed and only feels active on the Sport setting, adequate in the Normal mode and barely getting out of second gear in the Economy setting.
The new CR-Z model does, however, boast an additional and interesting feature, which is known as a new Plus Sport System. The system enables the car to compromise some of its more economical credentials in favour of a significant boost in power and responsiveness. The Plus Sport System can be activated through an S+ button that is located on the dashboard. Similar to the Honda Accord Sport, the CR-Z is an exceptionally attractive car from a purely aesthetic point of view.
With its redesigned sportier front and exceptionally sleek appearance, it's no wonder that Honda unveiled its refreshed 2013 Honda CR-Z ahead of schedule at the Indonesia Motor Show in September this year.