Honda CR-Z Type R In The Works?

Honda just introduced the CR-Z at this year's North American International Auto Show. Needless to say, many were disappointed.

Instead of a successor to the much-loved CR-X like it name implies, the CR-Z is more of a successor to the Insight. Could help be on the way in the form of a Type-R model?

The main issue with the CR-Z (for enthusiasts anyway) lies in its specifications list. The CR-Z is a hybrid, with a 102 horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, along with an electric motor that provides an additional 20 hp. That adds up to only 122 hp.

AutoExpress reports that those figures are about to change for the better. The new CR-Z Type-R would use a version of the 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the Civic Type-R, good for 150 horsepower in the CR-Z's application.

Given that the CR-Z was designed as a hybrid from the outset, it will continue to use an electric motor - but one with increased power - over double, to 50 horsepower.

Using an electric motor isn't a bad thing given that they provide for nearly-instantaneous torque. In a past article about a performance CR-Z, tuner Mugen was reportedly excited about the performance possibilities of such a setup. The 200 hp of the Type-R would boost 0-60 times to near 6 seconds.

As expected, the package will include the requisite suspension modifications , upgraded brakes, a body kit and other Type-R visual changes like the black and white paint scheme.

The Type-R will also add a new driving mode, Sport Plus, to the existing three. Sport Plus will change settings for throttle response, steering, timing of start-stop system and provide maximum performance from the electric motor.

We're liking the sounds of this! The report says the car is being worked on for a launch at next year's Tokyo Motor Show for on an sale date in Japan in late 2011. Check out Auto Express for some renderings of what the Type R could look like.