Honda CR-X: The Popular Sports Hatchback

Honda launched its first Honda CR-X in 1984 and called it the Honda Balade Sports CR-X. Outside of Japan, this 1st generation CR-X was called the Honda Civic CR-X and was generally considered to be an upgraded sporty version of the ever-popular Honda Civic.

To the US market, the CR-X was described as an economical sports hatch, seating two people. The Europeans were marketed a powerful engine and additional seats in the car, providing a 2+2 arrangement. In 1987, the CR-X was redesigned and stayed in production until the early 1990s.

Younger drivers in all markets were delighted with the Honda CR-X, drawn to its economy, handling and performance, not to mention its great street appeal. One company in the States converted the CR-X to a targa topped convertible in the years 1984 to 1987. America also had the 1. 5 L, HF model (or high fuel economy); this CR-X managed even better economy than before, without any increase in same purchase price.

The second generation of the Honda CR-X commenced production in 1987, when the chassis was changed to independent wishbones both front and rear. It was available in both a 1495 cc sohc and an updated 1590 cc DOHC engine, mostly with fuel injection fitted as standard. From 1989 the CR-X was fitted with the same 1595 cc VTEC engine as the Integra, and continued to show good fuel economy despite the new engine. These models that were equipped with the VTEC engine also enjoyed an exterior makeover of lights, bumpers, dash and bonnet.

There were 3 different second generation models and engine types available in the United States. There was a basic model with a 1495 cc engine; the mid range model was fitted with an 8 valve, 1495 cc engine; and the Si (sports injection) sports model came with a 16 valve, 1590 cc engine. This Si model also sported a sliding moon roof that was power operated.

The Japanese CR-X had an optional glass roof: a single pane of glass that went from the hatch to the windscreen. These were very popular, and although they were not available in other countries at the time, they have become a highly prized model by enthusiasts around the world.

In 1992, the Honda CR-X was replaced with the new Civic, the Honda Civic del Sol, which was generally accepted by motoring enthusiasts as the 3rd generation CR-X. Much talk and many rumors have promised a return of the Honda CR-X, and finally it does appear as though it may be one of the Honda hybrid series in the near future.