However, the biggest news is under the bonnet, where the 1.5-litre petrol engine has been joined by a supercharger to offer around 200hp. Honda has confirmed that early tests with the Mugen CR-Z have shown it has performance similar to a Civic Type-R's, so 0-100km/h happens in around 6.6 seconds. No top speed figure has been mentioned by Honda or Mugen.
Mugen says it has increased power by a further 15 per cent and reduced overall weight by 50kg. This means the car is on target to meet the tuning company's original performance and economy targets.
The Mugen CR-Z retains the hybrid battery pack of the standard car. Colin Whittamore of Mugen Euro said: "Early fuel consumption tests have been encouraging. We've retained the three driving modes from the standard car and economy ranges from 50mpg or more in 'eco' mode to mid-30s consumption when tapping into the supercharged power in a special 'MUGEN' mode."
The release of these official images has further fuelled rumours that Honda is planning a limited run of Mugen CR-Zs rather than the one-off claimed at the moment. Expect to see the finished Honda Mugen CR-Z at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July.
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