UK-based MUGEN Euro have taken up the challenge to give the Honda CR-Z some extra grunt. The CR-Z MUGEN concept adds a supercharger to the CR-Z hybrid's 1.5-liter gasoline engine and IMA electric motor to increase the vehicle's output from 122 to 198 horsepower and ups the torque from 128 to 181 lb-ft. Honda UK and MUGEN have just released the first official pics of the vehicle ahead of its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed to be held in West Sussex, England, in July.
Honda says early tests of a prototype supercharged CR-Z MUGEN based on a standard CR-Z and a mid-tune engine have produced 0-60 mph acceleration times similar to that of the Civic Type R. After a further 15 percent increase in power over this "stage 1" engine and by shaving 50 kg (110 lb) from the chassis, Honda says the vehicle is on track to meet MUGEN's original overall performance targets.
"Early fuel consumption tests have also been encouraging," says Colin Whittamore from MUGEN Euro. "We've retained the three driving modes from the standard car and economy ranges from 50+mpg in 'eco' mode to mid-30 mpg when tapping into the supercharged power in a special 'MUGEN' mode."
The CR-Z MUGEN concept is still just that - a concept - and there's no indication that it will ever make the transition to showrooms, but it doesn't hurt to dream.
