Honda CR-X Review (1984 to 1997)

Quick Summary

Real drivers wanting affordable motoring from a great-looking reliable little coupe will find it here.

Overall:

Models Covered:1984–1992 1.6i & 1.6i V-Tec Civic CRX and CRXi1992–1997 1.6i & 1.6i VTi CRX convertible

BARGAIN BLAST

Want a small second-hand sportscar that's fast, characterful, reliable and practical? Look no further than Honda's CRX: it's affordable, fun and great to drive.
Used Honda CR-X for sale

History of the CR-X

The CRX was originally nothing more than a coupe derivative of the little Civic 3-door supermini, albeit with a slightly more warmer 1.6-litre engine. A cult following was established after the launch in 1984 and when the Civic range was facelifted a few years later, the CRX became more of a model in its own right. A sportier V-Tec version was added to the line-up soon after with a 1.6-litre variable valve timing engine that developed prodigious power and made a glorious noise.In 1992, Honda decided to further separate the CRX from the Civic range by giving the car its own two-door targa bodystyle. Underneath however, the mechanicals were much the same, buyers choosing from the fuel injected ESi or the faster variable valve timing VTi.A fascinating option was the clever electric roof initially optional on the VTi only; stilts rise automatically out of the boot, swallow the top then retract again. It became standard on the ESi from January 1995. CRX production finally ended in 1997.
Used Honda CR-X for sale

Honda CR-X Road Test

All the engines are willing but, as suggested earlier, try and buy yourself into a VTEC version. At around 5,000 revs, the engine lets out a glorious wail under heavy acceleration which is addictive. This is particularly prevalent on the old-shape models. The newer coupe had more refined but less characterful powerplants.It isn't only about the engine either. The gearbox is a delight, sweet and slick, far better than most modern-day transmissions. The steering too is sharp and precise, complementing handling that enables you to place the car exactly where you want it.
Used Honda CR-X for sale

Buying a Honda CR-X

Not much goes wrong unless previous owners were over-enthusiastic (and many will have been). Look for signs of heavy front tyre wear, possible accident damage and any kind of abuse from rallying or racing. A service history is vital.
Used Honda CR-X for sale

Honda CR-X Typical Pricing

Eighties Civic CRX's will be rather tatty now – though would make a great first car for a young driver. Better, however, to try for a early Nineties facelifted example or pay up to around £800 for the glorious (and surprisingly rapid) VTEC model.If you want a new shape convertible CRX, prices start at £1,500 for an Esi on a 1994 L plate. You'll need to stump up another £100 for an automatic. The models with the electric roof are well worth seeking out and these start at £2,300 for a 1995M example; the final cars had standard air conditioning, too.
Used Honda CR-X for sale

Honda CR-X Parts

(ex Vat – based on a 1996 1.6i Convertible - approx) A clutch assembly is around £120. Front brakepads are around £45 with rear brake shoes at £40, a full exhaust about £380, a radiator about £140 and an alternator around £265. A headlamp lens is about £155.
Used Honda CR-X for sale