For enthusiasts of the 2016 Honda CR-Z, the final model year of this unique hybrid coupe, there are delightful surprises beyond the official specifications. Stepping up from the 2011 model, the 2016 Honda CR-Z incorporates several subtle yet significant enhancements that often go unnoticed. As a dedicated owner and automotive expert, I’ve explored these under-the-radar features to offer a comprehensive look at what makes the 2016 Honda CR-Z a truly refined driving experience.
Smarter Auto Headlights: Enhanced Convenience and Control
In earlier models, the automatic headlight function was rather rudimentary. While my 2011 CR-Z had a sensitivity setting, it operated in a binary fashion – headlights on and interior lights dimmed, regardless of whether it was truly necessary during daylight hours, such as in overcast conditions or when required by specific state laws. This one-size-fits-all approach often led to the inconvenience of a dimmed interior even when daytime running lights would suffice.
The 2016 Honda CR-Z introduces a more intelligent auto headlight system. Now, when you manually switch your headlights to the ‘ON’ position during the day, the auto functionality intelligently retains control over dimming the interior lights based on your set sensitivity. This means you can have your headlights illuminated for increased visibility in various daytime conditions without sacrificing the brightness of your interior gauges and displays. This thoughtful refinement in the 2016 Honda CR-Z enhances both safety and driver comfort.
Hatchback Lock Button: Seamless Security at Your Fingertips
Imagine returning to your 2016 Honda CR-Z with your hands full. You need to access the hatch, but then want to quickly secure your vehicle without fumbling for your key fob. Honda engineers have anticipated this everyday scenario. The 2016 Honda CR-Z (EX and above trims) discreetly integrates a lock button right next to the hatch release button. A simple press of this button, and the entire car is securely locked. This seemingly small addition adds a significant layer of convenience to the daily usability of the 2016 Honda CR-Z.
The Enduring CD Player: A Nod to Physical Media
In an era dominated by digital streaming and music libraries, the inclusion of a CD player in the 2016 Honda CR-Z might seem anachronistic to some. However, for many, the tactile experience of owning physical media and enjoying CD-quality audio remains a cherished aspect of in-car entertainment. The 2016 Honda CR-Z acknowledges this preference by retaining a CD player across all models, a feature surprisingly absent from online specifications and often overlooked in modern car discussions.
Similar to previous navigation-equipped models, accessing the CD slot involves a simple press of the eject button, which elegantly slides the infotainment screen forward to reveal the disc slot. Furthermore, this system still supports media files on discs, offering versatility beyond standard audio CDs. While the 3.5mm AUX jack has been removed, the 2016 Honda CR-Z compensates by providing an additional USB port, reflecting a balanced approach to both legacy and contemporary media formats.
Enhanced Bluetooth: Seamless Connectivity and Clarity
Early iterations of Bluetooth connectivity in vehicles, including the 2011 CR-Z, often suffered from inconsistent performance and subpar audio quality. Many users experienced dropped connections and difficulties with voice clarity during calls. However, the 2016 Honda CR-Z showcases a marked improvement in Bluetooth technology.
Whether through software optimizations, hardware upgrades, or a combination of both, Bluetooth in the 2016 Honda CR-Z now operates with remarkable stability and enhanced audio fidelity. Hands-free calls are clearer, and features like Siri activation operate seamlessly without needing to directly interact with your phone. This improved Bluetooth integration in the 2016 Honda CR-Z significantly enhances the overall user experience, making it a genuinely useful feature for daily driving and connectivity.
Sport Mode and Active Sound Control: An Auditory Performance Boost
Perhaps one of the most intriguing and undocumented features of the 2016 Honda CR-Z is its Active Sound Control (ASC) system, particularly when engaged in Sport mode. While not explicitly advertised in English-language marketing materials, evidence from Japanese market information and US parts listings confirms its presence.
The Active Sound Control system utilizes microphones, a signal processor, and the car’s audio speakers to subtly manipulate the engine noise within the cabin. In the 2016 Honda CR-Z, this system is designed to enhance the driving experience by adjusting the engine note based on the selected drive mode.
As illustrated in Japanese marketing materials, Active Sound Control in the 2016 Honda CR-Z works across different drive modes. In ECON or NORMAL modes, it provides a refined and linear engine sound, responding smoothly to accelerator input. However, when SPORT mode is activated, the system amplifies the engine note, creating a more pronounced and exhilarating auditory experience that complements the sportier driving dynamics.
The US parts catalog further corroborates this with a listing for an “ACTIVE NOISE CONTROL UNIT,” part number 39200-SZT-A01, specifically for the 2016 Honda CR-Z. This component, priced at $245.28, strongly suggests the inclusion of Active Sound Control as a factory feature.
For drivers of the 2016 Honda CR-Z, engaging Sport mode not only sharpens throttle response and steering feel but also adds an extra layer of driving excitement through the subtly enhanced engine sound. While it might be an artificially augmented sound, it undeniably contributes to a more engaging and enjoyable driving experience, putting a smile on the face of any 2016 Honda CR-Z enthusiast.
Conclusion: Appreciating the Nuances of the 2016 Honda CR-Z
The 2016 Honda CR-Z, while marking the end of its production run, is far from a mere carryover model. It incorporates a series of thoughtful, albeit often undocumented, improvements that elevate the overall ownership experience. From smarter headlights and a convenient hatch lock to enhanced Bluetooth and the surprising Active Sound Control, the 2016 Honda CR-Z offers a level of refinement and subtle sophistication that rewards those who delve deeper than the surface specifications. These hidden gems truly solidify the 2016 Honda CR-Z as a distinctive and cherished vehicle for those in the know. Have you discovered any other surprising features in your 2016 Honda CR-Z?
Related Discussion: http://www.crzforum.com/forum/general-discussion/8557-favorite-surprising-cr-z-feature.html
