Third Place: 2012 Honda CR-Z
Price: $20,485
EPA Fuel Economy: 31/37 mpg (manual); 35/39 mpg (CVT)
The name and design hearken back to the old Honda CRX hatchback, but today’s CR-Z is a thoroughly modern hybrid car. Like the CRX from which it draws much inspiration, the Honda CR-Z is a small two-door with a stubby rear and sporting pretenses. It’s the only hybrid car on sale today offered with a six-speed manual, although models with the continuously variable transmission are a bit more fuel-efficient.
Even though efficiency is the name of the game, the CR-Z still tries to administer a dose of fun to the driver thanks to a taut suspension, 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, racy body parts like a rear spoiler, and a Sport mode that tightens the steering and throttle responses. Under the hood is a 1.5-liter inline-four engine that produces 122 or 128 hp depending on transmission, supplemented by a 13-hp electric motor. The Honda CR-Z offers neither outstanding driving nor superlative fuel economy, but it is a decent compromise for buyers who want a thrifty hybrid without completely sacrificing driving enjoyment.
