2013 Honda CR-Z: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2013 Honda CR-Z

The 2013 Honda CR-Z gets a major mid-cycle update led by a stronger lithium-ion hybrid system with 130 horsepower and an S+ boost function. It also gains refreshed styling and more standard cabin technology.

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About the 2013 Honda CR-Z

First generation CR-Z (2011-2016), major refresh year.

Honda sells the CR-Z as an unusual mix of sporty coupe attitude and hybrid efficiency. Its core appeal is simple: quick steering, compact size, hatchback usefulness, and hybrid fuel economy in a two-seat package that still feels playful around town. The big differentiator versus other hybrids of the time is that the CR-Z offered a 6-speed manual, giving shoppers a more involved driving experience than a typical economy-focused hybrid.

Honda positioned the 2013 CR-Z as a compact, sporty hybrid hatchback, with the base trim covering everyday essentials and the EX adding more upscale equipment. Both trims have the 130-horsepower hybrid system and S+ boost, while the EX adds HID headlights, fog lights, a stronger seven-speaker audio system, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

What changed, by category

Powertrain
A lithium-ion battery replaces the previous battery technology, and total output rises to 130 horsepower. Torque is 140 lb-ft with the manual transmission and 127 lb-ft with the automatic transmission. Every trim also gains the S+ boost function, and hybrid city fuel economy rises from 35 to 36 mpg.
Styling
Honda revises the front end, rear lower trim, wheel finish, and interior trim. The EX also gains LED daytime running lights.
Safety
A rearview camera with guidelines becomes standard across the lineup.
Tech
Bluetooth hands-free calling becomes standard across the lineup. Navigation changes from standard to optional on the EX.

2013 Honda CR-Z specs and features by trim

2013 Honda CR-ZEX0 in stock
2013 Honda CR-ZBase0 in stock
Engine4-Cyl, Hybrid i-VTEC 1.5L4-Cyl, Hybrid i-VTEC 1.5L
TransmissionAutomatic, CVTAutomatic, CVT
DrivetrainFWDFWD
Fuel TypeHybridHybrid
MPG City36 mpg36 mpg
MPG Highway39 mpg39 mpg
Torque127 lb-ft127 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo25.1 cu-ft25.1 cu-ft
Seats22
Doors22
Alarm System
Automatic Headlights
Rear View Camera
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
Heated Mirrors
LED Daytime Running Lights
Rear Spoiler
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Smartphone Interface
Subwoofer
USB Ports
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel

How the 2014 Honda CR-Z compares

The 2014 Honda CR-Z is a carryover with no major changes. Its hybrid powertrain, two-trim lineup, styling, safety equipment, and technology all return from 2013.

See the full 2014 changes

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2013 Honda CR-Z?

The biggest change is the upgraded hybrid system. It uses a lithium-ion battery, produces 130 horsepower, and adds an S+ button that provides a brief boost in response.

Is the 2013 Honda CR-Z more powerful than the 2012 model?

Yes. The 2013 Honda CR-Z produces 130 horsepower and uses a new lithium-ion battery as part of its updated hybrid system. It also adds the S+ boost function.

What became standard on every 2013 Honda CR-Z?

Every 2013 Honda CR-Z has the S+ boost function, Bluetooth hands-free calling, and a rearview camera. These upgrades apply to both the base and EX trims.

What is the difference between the 2013 CR-Z base and EX trims?

The EX adds HID headlights, LED daytime running lights, fog lights, a seven-speaker premium audio system with a subwoofer, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Both trims use the same 130-horsepower hybrid system and have the S+ boost function.

Is the 2013 Honda CR-Z a meaningful upgrade over the 2012 model?

Yes, especially if stronger performance and newer standard equipment matter to you. The 2013 model adds a lithium-ion battery, more power, S+ boost, a standard rearview camera, standard Bluetooth calling, and refreshed exterior and interior details.

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