“Would love arm rests in this car. Would also love for the passenger seat to fold down/forward for more space when loading stuffing the hatch. My PT Cruiser had it and it was an awesome feature. I love everything about it except it is red. I wanted it in blue but couldn't wait 2-3 months for the color to come in.”
Honda CR-Z: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Honda CR-Z is a small two-seat hybrid coupe known for combining fuel efficiency with sporty styling and a more engaging driving feel than most hybrids of its era. Its compact size, hatchback-style cargo area, and available manual transmission give it an unusual mix of thrift and personality.
Sold in the U.S. from 2011 through 2016, the CR-Z consistently put driver involvement ahead of maximum passenger space. Its gasoline-electric system delivered quick response at lower speeds, while selectable driving modes let it lean toward efficiency or a sportier feel. Updates in 2013 brought more power, and the final 2016 refresh sharpened the styling and added useful technology.
Strengths
- It makes hybrid driving more engaging, especially with the unusual six-speed manual transmission.
- Its compact size makes it well suited to commuting and crowded streets.
- The cargo area behind the seats is useful for a car built strictly for two people.
- Selectable Sport, Normal, and ECON modes let the driver change how responsive or efficiency-focused the car feels.
- The 2013 update increased output to 130 horsepower and added a short boost function for quicker response.
Who it's for
The CR-Z suits a solo driver or couple who wants a small, efficient commuter with more personality than a typical hybrid. It makes the most sense when two seats are enough and cargo flexibility matters more than carrying rear passengers. Manual-transmission models especially appeal to drivers who enjoy being involved in the drive.
Honda CR-Z lineup
The entry model, called the base trim in earlier years and LX for 2016, keeps the CR-Z's core hybrid performance and driving character without the extra amenities. Step up to the EX for more comfort and convenience while retaining the same basic powertrain. Navigation-equipped EX versions suit shoppers who want built-in directions. The leather-lined EX-L sits at the top, but it was added only for the final 2016 model year.
Honda CR-Z generations
From 2011 to 2016, the CR-Z spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2011.
1st Generation (2011–2016)
The CR-Z is a two-seat hybrid hatchback coupe built around a 1.5-liter gasoline-electric powertrain and a more driver-focused feel than a typical hybrid. A major 2013 update brought more power and a lithium-ion battery, while a final 2016 refresh revised the styling, chassis, brakes, and cabin technology.
4 In Stock
2016Mid-cycle update
Final U.S. model year. Revised styling, a wider rear track, larger brakes, and a 7-inch touchscreen led a broad refresh; the leather-lined EX-L Navi trim also joined the lineup.
2015
Carryover year with the same two trims, 130-hp hybrid system, and manual or automatic transmission.
2014
Carried over the 2013 updates with no significant U.S.-market changes.
2013Mid-cycle update
A major refresh added a lithium-ion battery, raised output to 130 horsepower, and brought a short power-boost function, revised styling, a rearview camera, and broader Bluetooth features.
2012
Essentially unchanged from the 2011 debut, with the same two trims and 122-hp hybrid system.
2011New generation
The all-new CR-Z debuted in the U.S. as a two-seat hybrid coupe with base and EX trims.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Honda CR-Z.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Honda CR-Z a hybrid?
Yes. Every Honda CR-Z pairs a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with electric assistance. The hybrid system is standard across the entire lineup rather than limited to one trim.
Is the Honda CR-Z a coupe or a hatchback?
It is a small two-door coupe with a rear hatch. Honda emphasized sporty styling, while the hatch opens to a useful cargo area behind the two seats.
How many people does the Honda CR-Z seat?
The Honda CR-Z seats two people. There is cargo space behind the front seats, but no rear passenger seat, so it is not a practical choice for carrying more than one passenger.
What is the Honda CR-Z known for?
The CR-Z is known for combining hybrid efficiency with sporty styling and more driver involvement than most hybrids of its era. Its compact size, quick low-speed response, and manual transmission option help define it.
Does the Honda CR-Z have useful cargo space?
Yes. The rear hatch and cargo area behind the seats make the CR-Z more useful than its two-seat layout suggests. The 2016 model has 25.1 cubic feet of cargo room.
Who is the Honda CR-Z a good fit for?
It fits a solo commuter or couple who wants a compact hybrid with sporty looks and useful hatchback cargo room. Its two-seat cabin makes it less suitable for families or anyone who regularly carries several passengers.
Does the Honda CR-Z have a manual transmission?
Yes. The CR-Z was unusual among hybrids because it was sold with a six-speed manual transmission. A continuously variable automatic transmission was also offered, so used examples may have either one.
How many generations of the Honda CR-Z were made?
There was one U.S. generation, covering the 2011 through 2016 model years. It received a major update for 2013 and a lighter final-year refresh, but it was never fully redesigned here.
Honda CR-Z Reviews
What owners are saying about the Honda CR-Z.
4.3
Honda CR-Z
(165 reviews)
“If you want a fun two-seater that is sporty and affordable that offers good gas mileage and good for the environment, and like to get back to shifting gears, going into sports mode then go for the CRZ!”
“Love my car - CRZ - the closest newer vehicle to the CRX that I was looking for.”
“It's not a hybrid, and not a sports car, but it does both and neither at the same time, which is precisely why it's so magical.”
“Lots of fun to drive. Has 3 driving styles: economy, normal and sport. Is a hybrid. Good gas mileage, but not as good as a Prius. Hatchback allows for carrying larger items.”
“CrZ handles like a dream, tight corners, smooth transitions, and powerful acceleration. The CrZ is the whole package, a sleek car with fuel efficiency and power to leave everyone in the dust.”
Sources
- automobiles.honda.com — 2016 / Cr Z / 2016 Cr Z Brochure
- automobiles.honda.com — 2016 / Cr Z / 2016 Cr Z Specifications
- automobiles.honda.com — 2015 / Cr Z / 2015 Cr Z Brochure
- automobiles.honda.com — 2017 / Full Line Brochure
- automobiles.honda.com — 2014 / Cr Z / 2014 Cr Z Factsheet
- automobiles.honda.com — 2014 / Cr Z / 2014 Cr Z Brochure
- automobiles.honda.com — 2013 / Cr Z / 2013 Cr Z Factsheet
- automobiles.honda.com — 2011 / Cr Z / 2011 Cr Z Brochure
- global.honda — Worldnews / 2010 / 4100111CR Z