Rounding the corner leading to Honda's booth at the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, I was a bit taken aback as I suddenly found myself confronted with the largest gathering of modified CR-Zs I'd ever seen, 12 in total. Heck, considering that the CR-Z has only been available for a handful of months, this was the largest gathering of any CR-Zs I'd ever seen. Most of these examples were built by third parties, but at the center of Honda's presentation was a trio of special compact hybrids built by Honda itself: a 2011 CR-Z equipped with Mugen accessories, the ultrahot CR-Z Hybrid R Concept, and the race-ready HPD CR-Z Racer.
The Mugen CR-Z features parts from Honda's Mugen performance division and will be limited to 300 examples. Upgrades include a serial number plaque (from 1-300), a full Mugen body kit, front grille, 17-inch XJ wheels, a black aluminum shift knob, and, most obviously, a huge wing spoiler. The Mugen CR-Z will be available in the same colors as the the standard CR-Z. Honda is still working out the pricing.
Moving on to the big show, the CR-Z Hybrid R Concept and the CR-Z Racer feature increased power over the showroom CR-Z, thanks to a turbocharger for the 1.5-liter gasoline engine and boosted output from the IMA hybrid system. The upshot is a pair of sport hybrids that output 200 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain gains an upgraded clutch to deal with the additional power flowing through the six-speed transmission, a limited slip differential for better grip, and upgraded brakes. The Hybrid R features a full interior, upgraded suspension, and alloy wheels, while the CR-Z Racer is gutted and caged with more race-appropriate rolling stock. Neither of these concept cars is intended for sale.
For a better look at the CR-Z customs and concepts from Honda's SEMA presentation, be sure to check out our gallery.