The S+ button activates Honda’s Sport Plus drive mode in the CR-Z, delivering a more responsive throttle and a sportier driving character. It is designed for drivers seeking quicker acceleration and a more engaging feel from the hybrid system.
In practice, the S+ option sits within the CR-Z’s range of drive modes. The exact behavior can vary depending on model year, transmission (manual or CVT), and the market where the car was sold. Some versions of the CR-Z offered S+ as part of an upgraded or regional feature set, while others relied on basic Sport or Eco modes.
How the S+ mode works
The following highlights describe how S+ generally affects the CR-Z’s performance characteristics.
- Throttle response is sharpened, giving quicker, more immediate power delivery when you press the accelerator.
- The hybrid powertrain (gasoline engine and electric motor) coordinates more aggressively to maximize available power during acceleration.
- Regenerative braking and hybrid energy management may be adjusted to favor performance over maximum fuel economy.
- Transmission behavior varies by drivetrain: in a manual-equipped car, S+ mainly changes engine timing and throttle mapping; in CVT-equipped models, the CVT control strategy is tuned to hold higher engine speed for quicker response.
In short, Sport Plus is intended to provide a more dynamic, responsive driving experience, with the trade-off of reduced efficiency and potentially more engine noise during spirited driving.
Availability and how to use it
Not every CR-Z built includes an S+ button. Availability depends on the model year, trim level, and the market. When present, the button is typically located on the center console near the gear selector and is activated by pressing it while in a Sport or Normal driving setting. If your vehicle lacks an S+ control, you may find other sport-oriented modes such as a plain Sport or similar feature instead.
- Availability varies by year and trim: some CR-Zs offered S+ only in certain regions or update packages.
- button location and labeling: S+ is usually a distinct switch on the center console; consult your owner’s manual for the exact placement in your car.
- Fuel economy and feel: engaging S+ typically reduces economy and increases throttle response and engine feel during acceleration.
- Behavior with the hybrid system: the S+ mode can alter how the electric motor and gasoline engine cooperate, with performance emphasis rather than maximum efficiency.
For owners, the bottom line is to check the vehicle’s documentation or consult a Honda dealer if you’re unsure whether your CR-Z supports S+ or how it behaves in your specific model year.
Summary
The S+ button on the Honda CR-Z activates a Sport Plus drive mode that sharpens throttle response and prioritizes performance from the hybrid powertrain. Availability is model-year and market dependent, and its use generally comes with reduced fuel economy compared with Eco or standard modes. If you own a CR-Z and want to use S+, verify its presence and operation in your vehicle’s manual or with a dealer.