In Japan, the Honda CR-X was originally called the Honda Ballade Sports CR-X when it first launched in 1984. This first generation CR-X was also known as the Honda Civic CR-X outside Japan, and it was considered to be a sports version of the popular 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.
Young drivers were attracted to the economy, handling and performance of the CR-X, with such a sporty design and great street presence. This certainly increased the numbers of younger drivers who bought Hondas. The company of R. Straman in the US carried out convertible conversions from 1984 to 1987 which also proved extremely popular. Also in the States, a 1. 5 L CR-X HF model was produced that had even better fuel economy at no additional purchase price.
1987 saw the production of a 2nd generation of the Honda CR-X with a chassis modification to double independent wishbones. Fuel injection was introduced to the 1495 cc and the updated 1590 cc DOHC engines. From 1989, the CR-X shared the same 1595 cc VTEC engine as the Honda Integra, and these models were treated to some exterior modifications of bumpers, lights and dash, as well.
In the United States there were three CR-X 2nd generation models with three different engines. These included the Si or sports injected that was fitted with a 16 valve 1590cc engine; the Si also had a powered sliding moon roof. The mid range model had an eight valve, 1495cc engine and the base model a 1495cc engine.
For the Japanese market, a glass roof, which was a fixed panel stretching from the windscreen to the hatch, was an optional extra. While it was a common car in Japan, it was not marketed elsewhere and now these models have become keenly sought by enthusiasts in other parts of the world.
The Honda CR-X was replaced in 1992 with the new Honda Civic del Sol. Although called a Civic, enthusiasts considered it the third generation of CR-X. Rumors have been circulating for some years about a return of the Honda CR-X and enthusiasts have been eager to see it arrive. Finally it seems that a new CR-X may become one of Honda’s hybrid cars in the future.
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