Honda unveiled a new S2000 CR prototype at the
New York Auto Show last week. The nomenclature denotes extensive revisions to the high-revving roadster, made to appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy spending their weekends on the track. The race-inspired version will likely be the last revision of the venerable roadster before the automaker reveals a replacement for the nearly decade old car.
The S2000 CR is essentially a stripped-down version of the roadster. Wearing an aggressive body kit with a front spoiler lip and a huge rear wing, the S2000 CR uses aerodynamics more than the standard version, benefiting from reduced lift at speed. A double-bubble tonneau cover and new wheels complete the visual transformation.
Instead of a conventional soft-top found on the
standard roadster, Honda has fitted an aluminium hardtop as standard equipment on the S2000 CR, shedding 41kg of ballast through the deletion of the soft-top mechanism and enabling structural bracing to be added behind the seats. Along with extensive chassis revisions, these structural enhancements contribute to increased body rigidity. The suspension settings have also been factory-tuned and optimised for improved handling, complemented by the car's perfect 50/50 weight distribution.
The prototype retains the 2.2-litre four-cylinder mechanicals (of the latest US version), a six-speed manual transmission, front and rear double wishbone suspension and torque sensing limited-slip differential of the standard car, but is fitted with unique interior trim consisting of yellow stitching for the cloth seats, a spherical aluminium gear knob and carbon look trim panels.
Buyers who want creature comforts like air conditioning and a CD audio system will need to check those items off of the options list when the S2000 CR trim level goes on sale in the US market in the fall of this year. We don't believe the CR will make it to Europe.
Eric Gallina - 10 Apr 2007