Does the beloved Honda CR-X have a replacement?
Honda's CEO Takeo was quoted on a Motor Trend interview , "We will launch a new range of hybrids in 2009 that are more efficient and cheaper than existing models. We believe hybrid technology is most appropriate for smaller vehicles where the efficiency gains are the greatest." Does that include the recently unveiled CR-Z? We hope so! The predecessor, the Honda CR-X, was an instant hit. Among gas sippers, weekend caynon carvers (who learned quickly that a b16a would fit quite happily under the bonet), and others saw the potential for a future classic. Recently, I've seen a 1989 CRX Si fetch $8,000 on ebay. (Close to what they cost when new!)
Eventually, the US received the Honda Fit. While a neat hatchback, it will never fill the void that the CR-X left us. Alas, once the pictures surfaced from the 2007 Toyko Auto Show, Honda lovers had a huge grin on their faces - a new CR-Z - but why not CRY? Automotive.com also suggests the CR-Z will be produced - but how will it fit into the current Honda lineup? Will the MRSP be lower than the base Fit? Or about the same? I'm hoping for 3 models*, a affordable base, hybrid, and an Si. Once Honda's lineup is beefed up, it can then compete with Toyota once again. *And possibly a tiny rear seat for a future ASIMO?