Facelifted Honda CR-Z Images Leak

2017 Honda CR-Z (Credit: Car News China)

In its short lifespan, the Honda CR-Z has taken quite a beating. Not only has it never sold very well, but it also received less-than-stellar reviews because it hasn’t been a great sport compact or hybrid. To help set the model straight, Honda is set to reveal a completely redesigned CR-Z in 2018, but until then, a significant facelift will have to do.

Thanks to the folks over at CarNewsChina.com, we now have our first look at the updated CR-Z.

2017 Honda CR-Z (Credit: Car News China)

On the outside, the changes are dramatic for a refresh. The front end features new headlights that are wider, a shapelier chin, and enlarged air inlets. Down the sides, you’ll notice more pronounced ground effects, while the rear end has revamped bumper that adds a little sportiness.

The interior of the CR-Z will also undergo some changes, but they are less significant than those on the outside. These changes include a new gearshift knob on the manual gearbox, a new center armrest, hew chrome handles, an electric parking brake, and a larger infotainment screen.

2017 Honda CR-Z (Credit: Car News China)

Unfortunately, the under-hood changes will have to wait until the new-generation model rolls out in 2018. Most reports indicate that this facelifted model will arrive with the same powertrain as the 2015 model, which is a 1.5-liter gasoline-fueled engine and an electric motor that team up to produce 130 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque.

According to reports, this new look will debut in 2016, which would make it a 2017 model year. Oddly enough, this only leaves two years between this refresh and the complete redesign in 2018.

We’ll bring you more details on the 2017 CR-Z as they become available, so keep it locked here.