Honda may call its 2011 CR-Z a “sport hybrid,” but ever since our first time behind the wheel, we’ve felt more than a little disappointed. It’s an enjoyable enough steer, but remains in dire need of some more oomph, and even with the automaker’s Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system on board, the resulting fuel economy isn’t as great as one might expect for a car of its size and utility.

@funkmasterflex

Honda tuning house Mugen Euro is set to rectify the need for a CR-Z with more spice – in concept form, anyway – with a hotted-up hatch that will debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. Mugen will offer enhancements for the CR-Z’s 1.5-liter engine and IMA system to boost both horsepower and torque – creating “Type R-like performance” – while new brakes and suspension geometry will better communicate the added power to the driver. Mugen even says that these changes could result in improved fuel economy, though no official statistics have been divulged as of this writing.
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