In recent years the manual transmission has become increasingly more popular.  A couple benefits include a lower cost vehicle, simplicity and fuel efficiency.  We at Red River Honda are not sure exactly why this trend is happing but we do know that Honda will offer a manual drive variant of its 2012 CR-Z.

For those of you who are not familiar with the CR-Z.  Its hybrid powertrain connects a 1.5 liter 16-valve iVTEC engine with a 10kW electric motor, which makes use of Honda's state-of-the-art IMA technology.

Inside, low resting seats and a high arching rear give optimal cargo space (not to mention, leg room) in this smaller ride. Catering towards tech savvy riders who still want a manual for any of the reasons mentioned above, CR-Z comes fully ready to support MP3 and USB (with six-speaker audio system), Bluetooth phone connectivity, as well as rain-sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Two modes of driving (Econ and Sport) let those behind the wheel choose if they want to sip gas or blast down the road.

But don't take it from us, hear what The Motor Report has to say: "The manual, at $34,990 - a full $6000 less than the Luxury CVT model - is exceptional value; that's why we awarded it an additional half-star."¹

Source: ¹http://www.themotorreport.com.au/52950/honda-cr-z-sport-manual-review