With its historical association to the CR-X, Honda's CR-Z elicited much enthusiasm from the tuner crowd, a group that doesn't generally favor hybrids. But the CR-Z is far from a typical hybrid, most of which are suburban commute cars with no attempt at sport looks or handling. But it also shows little advantage from its hybrid engine, never a strong point from Honda.

Ultimately, the CR-Z is a mixed bag. It handles very well, but the engine generates little power, and it takes a while to hit 60 mph. It employs a hybrid system and can turn off the engine at stop lights, but the power train runs rough. The instrument cluster has an excellent futuristic look, but the navigation system is circa 2005.

Check out our 2011 Honda CR-Z review.