Cars

The Top Cartoon Vehicles We All Wish Were Real

February 22, 2012 By Guest Author Leave a Comment

This is a guest post by Ryan Jones. Ryan works with car leasing and contract hire company Nationwide Vehicle Contracts and wishes that certain aspects of some cartoons could become a reality!

If I am the only person in the world to have dreamed of driving the Phooeymobile or sending Optimus Prime out to fight my battles for me then I will admit to being the sad loser that people often call me. The fact is, I am not the only one wishing that cartoons could be real and with that in mind, here is my selection of the top cartoon vehicles we all wish were real.

Optimus Prime

Although you could have picked pretty much any Transformer from the classic cartoon series, the reason to choose Prime can be laid out in three reasons. The first reason is that you can trust the guy (unlike Megatron or any of the Decepticons) and believe me; it is always good to have a giant robot around that you can trust.

The second reason is the fact that not only do you have the leader of the Autobots on your friends list but you also get to drive a kick-ass semi-trailer truck. If you are feeling really lazy then why not just shout out a destination of your choice and get Prime to drive there?

The final reason to have Prime is simply because he would be able to find a way to bring all of the other Autobots into the real world (don’t ask me how) and this can surely be a good thing? As long as you don’t start getting a movie tie-in with rubbish model actors and Shia LaBeouf then all will be well!

Thundertank

Fans of the classic 80s show ThunderCats will recognise the Thundertank as the vehicle that was put together by Panthro in the second episode of the original series. Sure the design might look a little old and the paint job isn’t particularly appetising but the tank does have some pretty awesome hidden features. The attachments that come as standard include a drill, claws, crushing mouth and in-built defence system, surely you wouldn’t say no to that?

The more you get to become familiar with the tank the more adjustments you can make, the first thing I would add is air-conditioning system along with a coffee maker and mini doughnut dispenser.

Phooeymobile

If you haven’t heard of Hong Kong Phooey then shame on you, he was voiced by the legend that was Scatman Crothers! That aside, Phooey had a great car at his disposal, the Phooeymobile, which not only got him from A to B but could also transform into pretty much anything including a boat, plane, telephone booth… you get the picture. Having a car that is able to turn into anything at all certainly wouldn’t be a bad idea!

Mean Machine 00

The fact is, if it wasn’t for Dick Dastardly and Muttley always stopping to try and make other racers in Wacky Races crash they would have won every single race that they participated in! This is thanks to the Mean Machine 00 being the fastest car in the cartoon. It comes equipped with a number of gadgets that are in place to stop other cars but in reality you just wouldn’t need to use them.

Who wouldn’t want a car capable of beating pretty much anything else in a race?

The Ones We Don’t Want

Of course, there are also vehicles from throughout cartoon history that we would rather not have in reality. The Mystery Machine from Scooby Doo would simply get stared at and everyone would assume that he owners were hippies and Mr Magoo’s car would simply not be road worthy in the 21^st century!

There are many more vehicles that could have been included in this list such as the bikes from the Biker Mice From Mars, The T.M.N.T van and a number of the other cars from Wacky Races, what’s your favourite cartoon vehicle? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

Filed Under: Fun, Uncategorizable Tagged With: Cars, Cartoons, Fun, Vehicles

British Beauties … Cars that is

January 19, 2012 By Guest Author

This is a guest post by Dilpreet Bhagrath on behalf of Fulton Leasing – a professional car leasing and contract hire company with the best leasing deals on all manufacturers and models, including Audi, BMW and Land Rover leasing.

There are many impressive British cars that do our country proud. Not only do these cars look effortlessly stylish and sleek, but they are also high-performing vehicles guaranteed to put the fun back into driving.

Land Rover is an iconic British brand as it not only represents power and style, but also has a strong presence on and off-road. It is a brand with such a unique build and design, and inevitably turns heads. Land Rover leasing is a popular option as it allows drivers to get behind the wheel of this innovative vehicle, without having to worry about depreciation of its value as you would with buying. Leasers can also work their way through the Land Rover family, as they can change their car every time their contract finishes. Range Rover leasing and Range Rover Sport lease deals are also a hit as these trendy cars exude a strong feeling of luxury.

Another car manufacturer which is engrained in the British automotive industry is the opposite of the large, domineering Land Rover – the humble Mini Cooper. Made by the British Motor Corporation, the Mini is a front-wheel drive with great road handling. Initially, it was put into production due to a fuel shortage which deterred people away from bigger cars. However, its popularity and success has grown immensely since then. The Mini Sports models have also experienced great success in rallying.

When discussing iconic and memorable British cars, there is one car manufacturer which cannot go unmentioned. This car has appeared in one of the most famous action movies in the world. I’m talking about Aston Martin, of course. Aston Martin’s collection of supercars have appeared in mega-hit movie James Bond. It is therefore instantly recognisable and associated with power and luxury. The Aston Martin DB9 is a particularly desirable supercar due to the exceptional adrenaline-satisfying drive it provides. Unfortunately, the hefty price tag which it comes with means the closest many of us will get to this British beauty is in the next James Bond flick.

Although many believe that other countries are further ahead in the automotive industry, it is important not to write-off our country too hastily as we have many British beauties that everyone would love to get their hands on.

What cars do you think do Britain proud? Jaguar? McLaren? The classic Mini? Let us know your favourite in the comments section.

Filed Under: Art and Design Tagged With: Art and Design, Beauty, British, Cars, Engineering

Honda and MUGEN Euro team up to produce CR-Z iCF

November 29, 2011 By Chris

Honda and MUGEN Euro team up to produce the CR-Z iCF Back in May, I wrote about the Honda CR-Z MUGEN prototype. I had already been quite taken with the CR-Z, but the MUGENed version was even more impressive. I said at the time that it was a bit of a shame the CR-Z MUGEN was going to be a one-off, but that maybe if there was enough interest we would see a production version too.

Well, here we are at the fat end of the year, and Honda have announced that they will indeed be teaming up with MUGEN to produce a 130+ mph version of the CR-Z, with Civic Type-R levels of performance. It won’t have exactly the same spec as the prototype (that was “a concept car produced in one-off halo form and designed to demonstrate the potential and versatility of the Honda IMA system”) but the CR-Z iCF, as it will be called, is still a huge step up from the standard CR-Z.

According to Honda’s press release, “MUGEN Euro engineers ‘breathed over’ the 1.5-litre power unit, retaining the 3-button IMA modes, adding a centrifugal forced air induction system, charge-air cooler and induction system and importantly, a MUGEN Euro-mapped ECU. The result is outstanding power to weight, and increased torque helping to deliver 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds – over 3 seconds quicker than the standard car.”

Martin Moll, Head of Honda (UK) marketing said, “MUGEN Euro magic has created a super responsive yet eco-conscious model building on our sporting credentials and giving us the ability to compete in the “hot hatch” marketplace as we move into 2012.”

I remember being so impressed with the CR-Z’s economy, but also how it retained the potential to be a sporty and fun car at the push of a button. The CR-Z iCF promises the same but, well, more power.

Production development continues at MUGEN Euro, with cars available for test drive through the eight Honda UK MUGEN dealers in spring 2012. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but are expected to be approximately £24,000.

Filed Under: Tech Tagged With: Cars, CR-Z, Honda, Hybrid, MUGEN

Celebrity Cars: What do the rich and famous drive?

October 26, 2011 By Guest Author

This is a guest post by Dilpreet Bhagrath on behalf of Fulton Leasing – a professional car leasing and contract hire company with competitive leasing deals on all car manufacturers and models, including Ford, Mercedes and Audi leasing.

Have you ever wondered which cars celebrities drive when they give their chauffeurs a day off? Unlike most of us who have a budget, celebs live in a world where they can choose from almost any car in the world, without hesitation. For these stars, a car isn’t just a vehicle for practicality to get you to and from work or to your local Tesco, but a symbol of status and wealth.

Corden’s Corker

A League of Their Own presenter James Corden decided to treat himself to a new car after he announced his girlfriend was pregnant with their first child. You would expect a father-to-be to opt for a sensible and family-friendly motor that you can rely on once the baby arrives, but the comedian had other ideas.

Corden bought himself the high-performing 285bhp Jaguar Convertible XKR. Reaching 60mph in just 4.6 seconds, the luxurious vehicle ticked all the adrenaline-seeking boxes. However, the one thing this sports car is missing is the space for a baby seat. Good luck explaining that to the missus.

Beckham’s Beauty

David Beckham is often seen behind the wheel of his Black Cadillac Escalade ESV. The sleek car boasts 26” TIS Drop Star rims, leather interior, a Bose speaker system and an abundance of space, seating up to eight people comfortably.
This sleek car is perfect for the global style icon and his ever-growing brood. With power to face the worst weather conditions, the Beckham family can always rely on their Escalade. We wonder if Victoria Beckham has ever tried (and failed) to take this beauty for a spin in her 6-inch Louboutins.

Carr’s Car

Funny man Alan Carr drives around in a British classic – the Mini Cooper. With its sensibly fast speed and great road handling, it’s perfect for the cheeky comedian. The small size means that Carr can park easily without getting into a huff and look trendy while he cruises around.
Alan Carr (no relation to Jimmy Carr) recently realised how popular his Mini is when a thief broke into his home, took the keys to his beloved motor and drove off. His replacement was another British classic – the push bike. He reveals: ‘I’ve been driving around on my push bike – and I fell off’. Poor Alan.

Simon’s Stunner

When talking about celebrity cars, there’s one celeb that cannot go unmentioned. The ultimate car collector has got to be Simon Cowell. Simon’s garage is overflowing with some of the best supercars in the world. The most breathtaking machine is undoubtedly the Bugatti Veyron.
The Bugatti Veyron is not only the most expensive car in the world, but also the fastest (well, legally that is). With an impressive top speed of 253mph, Simon can definitely let off some steam in this stunner.

It’ll come as a big relief to car lovers that this car won’t just sit in his garage or not utilised to its full capacity as Simon Cowell knows how to handle a car the way it should be. The X Factor judge proved his driving ability on Top Gear during the ‘Star in a Reasonably Priced Car’ segment when he impressed Jeremy Clarkson and co to become the third fastest non-professional driver to complete the challenge on Series 8.

Celebrities are lucky enough to have a different motor every day of the week if they please – and many of them do. It’s a great way to spend their money on something fun and impress everyone around them. If money was no object, what would be your dream car? What do you think about the above mentioned cars? Please post your comments below to share your thoughts.

Image post used under Creative Commons License – originally by Sudhanwa..

Filed Under: Tech Tagged With: Cars, Celebrity

New Honda Civic – first pictures released

September 14, 2011 By Chris

Honda Civic gets a redesign I really didn’t intend to post twice about the same company this week, but sometimes news arrives and switches things around a little. The original intention was to publish a guest post today, but keep an eye on your feed reader on Monday for that instead.

Rather, we’re talking about Honda again today. When they released the new version of the Civic a few years back it was, quite simply, stunning. The angular looks, the glass-encased badge, and the general feel of the car gave something of an impression of a rocket ship that appealed on many levels. Now Honda have released the first images of their latest Civic.

The new Civic has lost that rocket ship look but, from certain angles, bears a striking resemblance to the Insight or CR-Z. I’ll admit that from the teaser pictures I had seen I thought the Civic was going to be incredibly ugly, but I’m pleasantly surprised. The only thing I’m not sure about would be that this Civic has one of those split rear windows I seem to have so much trouble with.

Anyway, have a browse through the image gallery and see what you think. Why not tell us your thoughts in the comments? Do you like the new design? I’d love to know your opinion.

Filed Under: Tech Tagged With: Cars, Honda

Honda Jazz Hybrid [Road Test]

September 12, 2011 By Chris

There are more and more hybrid vehicles coming onto the market as manufacturers either produce their first hybrid or extend their range. One of the existing manufacturers who have added another hybrid to their lineup is Honda, with the hybrid version of their popular Jazz.

The Jazz Hybrid (a petrol-only version is also available) features a 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine with a CVT gearbox and, of course, an electric motor. Just like the Honda Insight, the Jazz Hybrid is capable of running solely on the electric motor under certain low-speed conditions. In fact, the Jazz Hybrid and the Insight share the same powertrain, so the drive features are pretty much identical.

The result is a highly efficient car with a stated combined fuel consumption figure of 62.8 mpg. In actual fact, I got 51 mpg around town and a rather nice 62 mpg while driving along country roads. The country road figure actually surprised me, but it was great to see efficiency like that and certainly makes the Jazz Hybrid an economical (and ecological) option.

So far we’ve looked at data, but I always think the most important aspect of a car is how it feels to drive, and how it makes you feel when you’re in it.

The Jazz Hybrid fares really well here. The drive is smooth and, since it’s a Continuously Variable Transmission gearbox, there’s no transition between “gears”. I’ve commented in several other hybrid reviews that there’s a common problem when you put your foot down: the engine revs very highly and sounds as if you are slipping the clutch. While that does still happen in the Jazz Hybrid, the soundproofing is so good it’s really not noticeable unless you are specifically listening for it. It was annoying in the original Insight, but now it’s just a minor part of the background noise.

Another common annoyance with hybrids is the tendency to go for split rear windows which, for me at least, puts a support beam right in the way for seeing what’s behind. In the Jazz Hybrid, we’re back to a good old-fashioned single pane of glass, which eliminates that rather large blind spot. I wondered whether this would have any effect on the aerodynamics of the car but, if it does, it certainly hasn’t had much of an effect on the fuel efficiency.

The interior is surprisingly spacious and the rear seats easily accommodate two child seats. The boot isn’t overly large but, again, will easily take a pushchair. It would be something of a struggle to fit everyone’s luggage in for a family holiday, though. Still, as an everyday family car there is plenty of room for everyone.

The dashboard, by the way features the same colour-changing tehnology as Honda’s other hybrids to tell you when you are driving efficiently and when you aren’t. What started out as a novelty for me has now, again, become part of the background so that I don’t consciously pay attention to the colour of the speedometer. I do notice, however, that I seem to be doing it unconsciously, which is probably the point, and driving more efficiently as a result.

I’m sitting here as I type this trying to think of anything bad about the Jazz Hybrid and, honestly, I’m struggling. It is a well-rounded car and there’s really nothing to dislike. It’s not stunning, it’s not got some miraculous new technology that puts it miles ahead of the rest of the hybrid pack, but it is genuinely nice to drive and be driven in.

If you are looking for a small family or town car I highly recommend that you take a test drive in a Jazz Hybrid. You might just find what you are after.

The Jazz Hybrid is available from £15,995 on the road, and further information can be found on Honda UK’s website.

Filed Under: Tech Tagged With: Cars, Environment, Honda, Hybrid, Jazz

Some thoughts on Green Motoring

July 6, 2011 By Chris

Car companies are increasingly shouting about their green credentials – doubtless in part because of increased legislation from governments around the world that require them to show they are doing something to reduce their environmental impact. I was sent this video recently that talks about some of the benefits modern cars bring in terms of environmental impact. Have a look, and join me again afterwards.

OK, now this is clearly an advert for Ford’s C-Max, but it makes some interesting points. I was particularly interested by the claim that it would take two hundred modern cars to produce the same pollution as the 1976 Ford Fiesta. The introduction of unleaded fuel and catalytic convertors seem very old hat nowadays, but they have gone a long way to cleaning up cars’ act.

It’s also nice to see attention being brought to technologies like low resistance tyres and stop-start engines. Why? Well, because the media in general goes on about hybrids and electric vehicles so much it’s sometimes forgotten that even conventional cars can go green. Volkswagen, for instance, have a range of BlueMotion technologies designed to make their cars more energy efficient.

And there’s the key – energy efficiency. It’s at the heart of environmentalism, as less energy used is less pollution generated. But for most consumers, the average Joe, it seems the concern is less about saving the planet as saving our wallets. In the press information for the Honda Insight, for instance, there is a section on costs which says this:

Our research and that of other manufacturers has also shown that while many people have good intentions to be greener, when it comes to buying cars, it’s cost rather than climate that’s influencing purchase decisions.

I sympathise with that. Better insulation on my house might mean less gas burned to heat it, but I’m thinking more about the gas bill than how much CO2 I’m releasing into the atmosphere. With the price of petrol ever increasing, it’s much the same with cars – make them more efficient and, yes, there will be less harm to the environment, but I will also get more milage out of a tank… and that tank is getting pretty expensive.

Of course I’m concerned about the planet, but I, and I would be willing to bet many others, need some measurable incentive to reduce our energy use rather than a nebulous threat of impending doom. Reducing costs is, I believe, just the measurable incentive that’s required.

What do you think? When you look at energy efficiency, is it the environment or your pocket that first comes to mind? Is reducing energy bills the “carrot” to the threat of global warming’s “stick” when it comes to efficiency? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Filed Under: Tech Tagged With: C-Max, Cars, Efficiency, Energy, Environment, Ford

After The Wrap: What happened to the iconic cars from classic movies?

June 22, 2011 By Guest Author

This is a guest post by Lee Pickering on behalf of Netcars – the online motoring search engine for popular brands, such as used Mini, Ford, Renault, BMW and Hyundai.

Once you leave the theatre after a movie, you think that everything just goes back to normal, don’t you? Well, for certain aspects of the film you’ve just watched, it does; the actors receive a big cheque, the film sells millions of tickets and you are relieved of £8.00. But what happens to the iconic cars after production? Where do they go? What do they do? Here’s a look at the fates that beheld the most memorable.

Back to the Future: DeLorean DMC-12

When Marty McFly first saw the DeLorean DMC-12 in the 1985 film, Back to the Future, it paved the way for a DeLorean takeover. Everyone who watched the film instantly fell in love with the iconic gull-winged sports car from Ireland, but rather unfortunately, in reality, the DeLorean was one of the biggest flops in the motoring industry.

Produced for just two years between 1981 and 1982, the 2 door sports car looked great but performed about as well as an English athlete in the Winter Olympics. Couple that with the company’s CEO being involved in some cocaine legality problems, it meant the DeLorean, as brand, was destroyed forever. Thankfully, the DMC-12, the company’s only export, is only remembered for its starring role in Back to the Future – which is probably a bit of a relief for the Irish motor industry.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Photo Credit: Daves Portfolio

One of the worst names in motoring history, over 40-years old and about as modern as a Van Gough painting, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang isn’t exactly the most modern or attractive of cars ever seen in cinema. But what it lacked in visual looks, it more than made up for in charisma, and that’s exactly what made the film goers of 1968 fall in love with it.

After the musical film finished, however, Chitty spent a life travelling from motor show to auto show, from owner to owner, until it finally sold last month for a mind boggling £500,000. The value, despite being as ridiculous as Chitty itself, was far lower than the original $1m expected from the sale. Chitty was designed by Ford’s racing team in 1969 and featured a 3.0-litre V6 engine which is, presumably, by now about as powerful as two harnessed sloths.

The Pussy Wagon from Kill Bill

Pussy Wagon Photo Credit: OpenKiko

With a name as descriptive as the Pussy Wagon, you’d imagine the driver would have to be quite egotistical and cocksure, but when Uma Thurman drove it in Kill Bill Vol 1 it showed that women who kick ass can be just as arrogant and confident as any male killer. After fans fell in love with Quentin Tarantino’s iconic film, the Pussy Wagon managed to continue its career in Lady Gaga’s hugely successful mini-film and music video, Telephone. According to reports, the Chevrolet Silverado SS is now owned by Mr. Tarantino himself. Perhaps he sees himself as a bit of a, ahem, magnet.

The General Lee from The Dukes of Hazzard

A modified Dodge Charger; a crazy and vibrant paint job, a confederate flag on the roof and what do you get? One of the most iconic cars from any motoring based film. The General Lee gained cult status thanks to it being involved in hundreds of chases and stunts involving those hillbilly kids. The Lee managed to stay relatively famous after the film ended thanks to a starring role in Jessica Simpson’s very seductive music video; These Boots are made for Walkin’. Simpson was also involved in the film for the modern re-make of The Dukes of Hazzard which managed to help boost the General Lee’s profile to a younger audience.

Mini Cooper S from The Italian Job

Mini Cooper Photo Credit: Shaun Tarlton

With the voice of Michael Caine, you could sell pretty much any film, but when you’ve got Caine’s voice and one of the most iconic British cars ever made in the Mini Cooper S, it’s pretty much a recipe for success. Without the Italian Job, it’s debatable whether the Mini would have sold like it did; sure, it was a great car but having worldwide coverage in such a popular film meant everyone wanted a piece of the Italian Job lifestyle.

After the film, though, the Cooper S struggled. Sure, sales were great, but when it was time to make a 21st century version of the Italian Job, the director decided to use BMW’s brand new MINI – which was about as MINI as the Big Show from WWE. So, the original was snubbed, but in a way, we don’t mind, because it meant the original kept its ‘60’s appeal and iconic status.

See, it’s not just actors that move on in their careers after the filming finishes. Do you know of any other iconic motors that went on to pastures new once their film role was over? Or do you want to comment on any of the examples I’ve given here? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

Filed Under: Art and Design, Media Tagged With: Cars, icons, Movies

Honda Insight [2011] Review

May 30, 2011 By Chris

Way back in 2009 we took a look at Honda’s Insight, which brought Honda into the mainstream hybrid market and promised to make hybrid motoring more affordable. Have a read of that review to get the details, but in short the Insight was a capable car and well worth a look if you’re in the market for a hybrid vehicle.

There were, however, a few niggles. The engine noise was a little distracting, with my wife declaring it was enough to put her off considering an Insight. The bodywork felt a little flimsy, despite everything being well built and solid on the inside. The support beam which splits the boot panel in two also seemed to sit exactly where I wanted to look to see any cars coming up behind me. If I were writing the Insight’s report card I’d probably put “very well done, but room for improvement” in the comments.

Well there’s a new version of the Insight out, which has apparently taken into account feedback from customers and reviewers. Changes to the suspension, soundproofing, and generally improved specifications have all been brought to the table. But have they made a difference? Let me say just now that this is not going to be a full-on review of the Insight, since the new version is essentially the same as the previously reviewed model with some upgrades. Instead, I’ll focus on how these upgrades have altered an already good car.

First up, suspension. This has been altered to improve the ride comfort and reduce NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) levels. If I’m honest, I didn’t think the ride was bad in the previous Insight. Certainly not bad enough for me to be wishing for adjusted suspension settings. So, as with the previous version, I found the latest incarnation of the Insight to be a smooth and comfortable ride – good for motorway, town, and country driving with no discomfort.

Soundproofing next. Since soundproofing isn’t a visible thing it’s easy to overlook, but as I mentioned the previous Insight had an “interesting” engine note that totally put my wife off the car. If you’re listening for it, you’ll still hear the engine revving up in the new Insight, and it still sounds and feels a little like you’re slipping the clutch, but it’s nowhere near as noticeable as it used to be. I think the key factor is that the engine is a little quieter, so while the Insight has the same characteristic as many CVT-style cars, it’s just less noticeable. The litmus test? That’s got to be my wife again who when I asked her told me she didn’t mind the sound of the engine at all now. “So, would you buy one now?” I asked… “Yes”.

Finally, there’s the uprated specification. I tested the top-of-the-line Insight EX, which comes with leather upholstery, heated front seats, built-in satellite navigation (with voice control) and bluetooth hands-free. Given that I tested the top-of-the-line car last time too, it was interesting to see these additions and how much more luxurious they made the interior feel. It still feels very high-tech too, and well put together, but is now just a nicer place to be.

So, all in all, Honda have taken a car that was already good and made it better. That support beam on the rear window is still right in my field of view, but I guess you can’t have everything. This Insight’s performance is almost identical to that of the car I tested in 2009 but it’s just, well, nicer in the several areas I’ve mentioned above.

The basic Insight is available from £16,995 OTR, and the EX starts at £20,995. Check out Honda’s website for more information, and to find your local dealer.

Filed Under: Tech Tagged With: Cars, Honda, Hybrid, Insight

Honda CR-Z MUGEN prototype showing promise

May 23, 2011 By Chris

Last month I wrote about Honda’s plans to give their CR-Z sporty hybrid the MUGEN treatment. Now Honda UK and MUGEN Euro have released the first photos of the CR-Z MUGEN and some development updates.

Apparently development is on track and the statistics are looking promising. Early tests with a standard CR-Z and a tuned engine have yielded a 0-60 time similar to that of a Honda Civic CR-Z (6.6 seconds). A further 15% power increase over this “stage 1″ engine, combined with reducing chassis weight by 50kg will bring the CR-Z MUGEN up to MUGEN Euro’s original 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.”

I still think it’s a shame that the CR-Z MUGEN is a one-off prototype rather than a full production car, but who knows? Perhaps if there’s enough interest in the prototype we’ll see them added to the line-up. If you are going to the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July you can see it in action, along with an exhibition of several Honda racing vehicles and special guests.

Tickets for the Festival can be bought from the Goodwood website.

Filed Under: Tech Tagged With: Cars, CR-Z, Honda, MUGEN