Honda Announces Mugen Kit for CR-Z, Brings Two Concepts and a Bunch of Tuned CR-Zs to SEMA

Honda’s display at the SEMA show provides a slightly more convincing argument in favor of the “sport” part of the CR-Z’s “sport hybrid” moniker in the form of a pair of turbocharged concepts—we’ve found the standard car fun to drive, but feel its practicality trade-offs compromise the overall car. The display also features a CR-Z wearing Mugen components, as well as some CR-Zs tuned in the aftermarket.

The Mugen accessories (shown on the gray car above) comprise a new body kit, grille, rear wing, 17-inch multispoke wheels outside, and an aluminum oil-filler cap, with a black aluminum shift knob and new floor mats dressing up the interior. Just 300 such kits will be offered starting in spring 2011, each color-matched to the buyer’s CR-Z. Pricing will be set at a later date

We were more interested in the CR-Z Hybrid R (red, above) and CR-Z Racer (white, below) concepts. With turbochargers for the gasoline engine and upgraded IMA hybrid-drive components, the modified cars are said to produce up to 200 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque. (The stock combined power rating is 122 hp and 128 lb-ft.) A stronger clutch, a limited-slip differential, bigger brakes, and a firmer suspension are also on the agenda. The show cars scored new body kits, wheels, and big rear wings, too. Sadly, neither model is slated for production, though two race-spec CR-Zs will compete in the 25 Hours of Thunderhill race this December