Built on their global small car platform, the 2015 Honda CR-Z is a front-wheel drive, fuel-efficient Hybrid hatchback born to help you get around. The sporty hybrid comes standard with a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 130 hp at high revs and 140 lb-ft of torque, with your choice of 6-speed manual transmission or a smooth-operating Continuously Variable Transmission, though some feel the CVT compromises acceleration a bit too much. Even so, both will have you rolling along at highway speeds in about 9 seconds. “Green” gear-slingers will also be happy to know that the CR-Z is the only Hybrid to offer a standard transmission. With its aerodynamic profile and prolific design, the 3-door CR-Z is no typical hybrid, withdrawing from the boxy, lumbering look typical of hybrid cars. Unfortunately, fuel economy is also not typical of a hybrid. Despite the assistance of an electric motor, you can only expect about 36 mp city/39 highway when equipped with the CVT, and the manual transmission gets even less. So although the CR-Z is considered “green,” it is most definitely not up to fuel standards of other cars in its class. Instead, it's built to leverage its electric components for a performance edge. This is a theme throughout the entire car. The CR-Z’s 2-seat cabin is chock-full of futuristic displays and illumination. The gauges are all well within view, and the materials used are of good quality. Innovative storage compartments are located behind the seats, giving you a maximum cargo capacity of about 25 cubic feet, without feeling cramped up in the front. There’s still a generous 42.7 inches of legroom for both occupants, and the low-positioned seats — which give you the impression of driving a go-cart — will leave you ample headroom as well. CR-Zs come in two different trims. The Base model is loaded with a plethora of features such as automatic climate control, rear-view camera, Bluetooth infotainment access, and cruise control. The upgraded EX trim comes with all of the amenities of the Base but adds brighter xenon headlights, upgraded audio, and a handy touchscreen navigation system. Both trims have the same suspension setup, which makes it a joy to throw into the corners, but ride quality quickly diminishes on rough surfaces and rear visibility is notably poor. Built to replace the Honda CR-X from a past generation, the CR-Z surely delivers the sport and practicality of its predecessor, while also following the growing trend of planet-friendliness. Although it may not be as efficient as other small hybrids, it makes up for it in eccentricity. The cutting-edge instrument panel dazzles just as well as the thrill of the drive. Easily navigating busy city thoroughfares, the CR-Z is a hybrid in a class of its own.