The basic concept of the CR-Z is to create a fun-to-drive sports car with driving characteristics of a Honda.
The CR-Z is powered by a 1.5 L (92 cu in) i-VTEC SOHC inline-4 engine, designated as LEA, with Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid-electric system. A six-speed manual transmission is standard equipment and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is available. The system delivers a combined peak output of 122 bhp (91 kW; 124 PS) at 6000 rpm and 128 lb·ft (174 N·m) at 1000 to 1500 rpm (123 lb·ft (167 N·m) on CVT-equipped models).
The gasoline engine contributes 111 bhp (83 kW; 113 PS) at 6000 rpm and 106 lb·ft (144 N·m) at 4800 rpm.