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Honda adds tech to 2016 CR-Z, no powertrain upgrades

Rumors suggest that the next-gen Honda CR-Z could finally become a real performance machine by dropping the hybrid setup in favor of a detuned version of the European Civic Type R's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. We aren't there yet, though, and for 2016 the wedge-shaped model instead receives a styling upgrade and some new tech. However, the hybrid powertrain is still exactly the same. As previewed by the Japanese version earlier this year, the 2016 CR-Z receives a revised face with a reshaped grille. The front diffuser now slashes through the lower air dam to create triangular niches for the foglights. At the back, a redesigned bumper further echoes the nose's styling. Honda's designers also tweak the interior by switching to an electric parking brake. This might seem minor, but because there's no longer a lever, a center console with an armrest can take up the open space. In addition, drivers can enjoy better infotainment from a standard, seven-inch Display Audio system. For the EX trim and above, the screen is used for the company's LaneWatch tech, too. Moving up to the top-spec EX-L adds navigation and heated leather seats. Even with the powertrain the same, the 2016 CR-Z might drive a little better. Honda's engineers thicken the front stabilizer bar a hair and widen the rear track by 0.4 inches. The brake discs are also now 11.1 inches at the both ends, versus 10.3-inches at the front and 10.2 inches at the back previously. For 2016, Honda revises the trims to LX, EX, and EX-L, but prices jump slightly. A base model now starts at $21,130 (with the $835 destination charge) versus $20,965 last year (with $820 destination). Perhaps these upgrades are enough to goose CR-Z sales because through September the model is down 25.1 percent with a volume of just 2,205 units. Related Video: Design Updates, Enhanced Tech and New Higher-Level Trim Make the Fun and Efficient 2016 CR-Z Hybrid Sport Coupe More Stylish and Feature Rich • New styling, inside and out, and new line-topping EX-L with standard navigation • New available features include 7-inch Display Audio, Smart Entry and Push Button Start/Stop, Electric Parking Brake and Honda LaneWatch™ • New Honda accessories options TORRANCE, Calif., Nov.

Honda customizing Vezel to headline Tokyo Auto Salon lineup

With the Tokyo Motor Show now behind it, the Japanese automotive industry is gearing up for the next big event. That'd be the Tokyo Auto Salon, Japan's equivalent to SEMA or Essen, set to take place at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba. Subaru has already announced what it has in store for the tuner expo, and now Honda has followed suit.
Most interesting of all the tuner concepts Honda has lined up are a pair of modified Vezel crossovers. The one pictured above is kitted out with parts from the Modulo catalog, while a second one is being prepared by Mugen (similar to the one recently leaked). Both look pretty sharp and hint at the possibilities in store for the Fit-based crossover that'll come to these shores with turbo power.
Honda is also displaying Modulo and Mugen versions of a number of other vehicles, including its N family of Kei cars, the new JDM Odyssey and the Fit. There's an N-WGN kitted out like a cookie delivery truck, an N-Box+ modified to look like an Element, a series of Ninja Turtles-inspired Grom motorbikes and an array of racing machinery. Check 'em all out in the gallery above and the press release below.

Check out these cool displays from Honda's new Ohio museum

Honda undoubtedly has its roots in Japan, but when it comes to its US operations, the automaker holds some very deep ties to the Buckeye State too. The company has been building cars at its Marysville, OH, campus since 1982 and over 10 million Accords have left there since then. The latest addition there is something that might actually bring brand fans to the site, though. The newly opened Honda Heritage Center museum is part of the recently constructed 160,000-square-foot Technical Development Center. The place offers a chance to take a tour of the company's history. While it's not the lavish, multi-story affair from Japan, the site still shows off some quite cool vintage products. The exhibits include an area dedicated to Honda's racing efforts, examples of its many motorcycles and several of its early models, including a '70s Civic. A HondaJet and displays of some of the company's engines are there, as well. The Heritage Center will open to the public in January, and other portions of the Technical Development Center will be responsible for training Honda employees. The Marysville campus will keep growing in the near future too with production of the upcoming Acura NSX taking place at a new facility nearby there. Check out the gallery for a glimpse of just some of what Honda has on display at its new museum. Honda Heritage Center: A tribute to the past, a focus on the future New Museum in Ohio Showcases Honda History in North America Dec 18, 2014 - MARYSVILLE, Ohio The Honda Heritage Center in Marysville officially opened its doors today, offering the world a glimpse of the innovative history and growth the company has achieved in Ohio and North America during the past 55 years. "The new Honda Heritage Center is a collection of Honda dreams in the form of products that are responsible for millions of customer relationships," said Takuji Yamada, chief operating officer of Honda's North American regional operations. "The great variety of products on display – including powersports, power equipment and automobiles, as well as aviation and robotics – together with the major milestones highlighted, tell the stories of Honda associates in Ohio and from throughout North America." Ohio Gov. John Kasich joined Honda officials and state and local community leaders to celebrate the opening of the new $35 million, 160,000-square-foot facility, which includes a museum, Technical Development Center and office space for Honda North America.