Honda-Mugen CR-Z RR Concept Is a No Go

We've thought all along that what the Honda CR-Z needs is an injection of excitement. The aftermarket, like usual, is happy to oblige. Mugen is a Honda tuner that has close official ties with the manufacturer though. From the very beginning it seemed intent on offering a solution for enthusiasts that turned the car into an exciting drive.

Very soon after the CR-Z production debut there was word of a sportier Mugen-tuned model coming. That effort came to fruition at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. There was two models, in fact - a Mugen CR-Z Concept and a CR-Z RR. The RR is racing-focused and more extreme than the aforementioned Mugen CR-Z Concept. There wasn't any word about production of either model when the two were shown off in July.

Today, Top Gear reports that the RR won't see the light of day. The RR really upped the ante with bespoke performance parts that included a carbon fiber front hood, doors and tailgate, along with a full length carbon fiber underbody. There's more though: 4-piston brake calipers, "race-tuned" suspension, vented front numbers, central-exit rear exhaust and forged 18-inch alloys. Basically is it a thorough reworking, and far cooler than the standard CR-Z.

The RR certainly looked the part inside and out - we bet all those upgrades would have cost a pretty penny if it ever did see the light of day though. That could have a big part of the decision not to produce it. What isn't clear is if the more sedate Honda Mugen CR-Z Concept will be produced. That car offers performance similar to the Civic Type R, thanks to a supercharged 1.5-liter cylinder working in concert with the electric Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system to provide 191 horsepower and 191 pound feet of torque.