Introduced in 1984, the Honda Civic CRX quickly established itself as a lightweight, fun-to-drive 2-seat coupe. Available in three colors: Greek White, Victoria Red and Baltic Blue, the CRX and the CRX 1.5 looked like nothing else on the road. The combination of its high build quality and excellent driving dynamics led Motor Trend to name the 1984 CRX its Import Car of the Year. In 1985 the CRX added other models including the highly efficient, 58-hp HF model and the fuel-injected Si model, which brought more horsepower than the standard CRX (91-hp vs. 76-hp) and more aggressive styling including 14-inch alloy wheels. In 1985 Car and Driver added the CRX to its 10Best list.

The 1988 model year brought an all-new CRX. The styling changes were evolutionary, yet the new smoothed-out lines felt significantly more upscale and the split rear window became one of its trademark features. Every engine was now fuel-injected and every model featured the legendary 4-wheel double wishbone suspension. With its longer wheelbase and wider track, the CRX handled better than ever and was snatched up by driving enthusiasts, some of whom added their own personal touches making the CRX one of the original cars responsible for the import aftermarket scene. The press was also smitten and Car and Driver again named the 1988 CRX to its 10Best list.

Alas, all good things must come to an end, and in 1991 the CRX bid farewell, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. And while the production ended, the aftermarket performance modifications had only just begun. Even today, 20 years later, CRXs grace the covers of enthusiast magazines. Owners have gone to extremes in modifying their vehicles including engine swaps, suspension upgrades and some have even created dragsters for off-street use.

There will never be another car like the CRX but the philosophy of a fun, lightweight, two-seat coupe continues with the CR-Z. While there were three versions of the CRX, in essence, you get three versions in one with the CR-Z. Those who want efficiency can push the ECON button, those who want more thrill can push the SPORT button and those who want a combination of the two can push the NORMAL button. Incidentally, the CR-Z's fuel economy will be tested using the NORMAL setting.

With an almost identical power-to-weight ratio* as the 1987 CRX Si but with a better fuel economy rating** thanks to the latest generation of IMA technology, the 2012 CR-Z should set the standard for sporty small cars of the modern era, just like the CRX did back in its day. We eagerly await your driving impressions—particularly those of CRX enthusiasts—once the car is available.

All CRX mileage figures (city/hwy/combined) are adjusted figures using the fueleconomy.gov Web site which estimates how the vehicle would rate using the current EPA standards established in 2008. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage may vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle. California Air Resources Board (CARB) required a California-only CRX HF to meet emissions standards.

All CRX mileage figures (city/hwy/combined) are adjusted figures using the fueleconomy.gov Web site which estimates how the vehicle would rate using the current EPA standards established in 2008. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage may vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle. California Air Resources Board (CARB) required a California-only CRX HF to meet emissions standards.