One of the CR-Z's more unique features is its 3-mode drive system. This allows the driver to tailor the driving experience to actual conditions or personal preference. Some drivers may prefer to conserve fuel at all times. Some drivers may prefer to have all of the CR-Z's power on tap at all times, while other drivers may prefer to have a combination of the two but with the option to pick either, depending on the situation.

If you're stuck in traffic on the freeway, for example, you could push the ECON™ button. During Econ mode, the engine's responsiveness is tuned for optimal economy, while the air-conditioning system and electric motor assist give priority to fuel efficiency, reducing the overall load on the engine. When you're stuck in traffic, there's really no need for extra power, so Econ mode is perfect. Obviously, Econ mode can be used in other situations, like driving around town or cruising on the freeway, but the beauty is that you have the option—you're not locked into anything. When you need a little extra "oomph," you need only to push a button.

Which brings us to Sport mode. This mode allows the driver to enjoy the performance side of the CR-Z to its fullest. The Sport mode enhances multiple vehicle systems for performance, including the engine throttle responsiveness, Electric Power Steering effort and the electric motor power assist. You're going to be running less efficiently in Sport mode but, again, it's YOUR choice. Sport mode is the ideal choice for situations like driving down a nice, curvy stretch of open road

The default position is Normal. So whenever you get in the car and turn the key, it will always start in Normal mode, which provides standard settings for steering, engine response, motor assist and air conditioning. Similar to Econ mode, the tachometer ring transitions between blue and green when the vehicle is in Normal mode, with the green representing more ecological driving. Like the Honda Insight, the CR-Z offers an Eco Assist and Eco Score feature to help drivers track progress of efficient driving styles.

Incidentally, the EPA will test the CR-Z in Normal mode to determine the mileage. But as you can see, your mileage will vary depending on how you drive—or what mode you like to drive in.

The 3-mode drive system makes the CR-Z a versatile machine. Giving the driver the choice is rare in the automotive world and something the CR-Z design team worked very hard to provide. Simply put, the end result is driver satisfaction.

— Adrienne