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Just the Facts:
The details continue to trickle out of Honda (U.K.) about its most recent collaboration with Mugen Euro — a 198-horsepower supercharged edition of the CR-Z hybrid.

Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system has morphed into Mugen's Integrated Centrifugal Forced-induction, or iCF, system.

An upgraded powertrain, aero body kit, uprated chassis components and extensive use of lightweight materials have transformed the standard CR-Z into a sport compact with performance specs similar to those of the Mugen-tuned Civic Type R.

LONDON — Honda (U.K.) and tuning partner Mugen Euro have issued a full complement of photos — and a few more details — ahead of next month's official unveiling of the one-off CR-Z Mugen at the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The photo blast follows last week's release of the first video footage of the car, which was created "to prove hybrid cars can be exciting to drive," according to Honda.

This hybrid appears to have the goods. Starting with Honda's 1.5-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine and IMA electric motor, Mugen has bolted on a supercharger, upgraded the electronics, replaced a number of the engine's internal components and added a sport exhaust, resulting in a serious boost in output and torque, to 198 horsepower and 181 pound-feet, respectively. Mugen has dubbed its revamped powertrain iCF, for Integrated Centrifugal Forced-induction.

To take advantage of all that additional power and torque, Mugen has fitted the chassis with such improvements as five-step adjustable shocks, stiffer springs, larger brake discs and four-pot monobloc calipers, 17-inch Mugen GP forged-alloy rims and a limited-slip differential.

The cockpit sports lightweight Recaro sport buckets and Mugen accessories, including temp and pressure gauges, a weighted gear knob and carbon rearview mirror cover.

Naturally, the exterior has been dressed up with a Mugen body kit, which packages front and rear under-spoilers, side skirts and a rear wing. The body has been painted Brilliant Orange Metallic, with carbon-fiber doors and hood contributing to the weight-reduction regimen.

Inside Line says: Although Honda and Mugen say they have no immediate plans to build even a limited edition of the CR-Z Mugen, customers in the U.K. can order a number of the components through authorized dealers.

http://www.insideline.com/honda/cr-z...r-z-mugen.html