Likes
- Being a small hybrid drivers car makes it very unique.
- Offers excellent value for money on the used market.
- Honda build quality and reputation for reliability.
- Superb drivers car with minimal running costs, that’s a great recipe.
Used Honda CR-Z review
2011 - 2013
Dislikes
- No rocket ship in a straight-line..
- Parts availability is becoming interesting and often expensive.
- Back seats are a joke.
- Tech is really feeling its age.
Stuff you should know
- The Honda CR-Z, introduced to the Australian market in 2011, is a unique 2-door hybrid sports car.
- It features a 1.5-litre engine paired with a hybrid system, and buyers had the option of a manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While hybrid powertrains are now more common, this combination was relatively groundbreaking at the time of its release.
- However, it’s important to keep in mind that hybrid technology in 2011 was not as advanced as it is today. As a result, the CR-Z’s performance figures were modest, especially when it came to acceleration.
- The car was not known for thrilling speed, even after a 2013 update, which saw the switch from nickel-metal hydride batteries to more efficient lithium-ion ones. Despite the bump in power, the CR-Z remained a vehicle more focused on efficiency and style than outright performance.
- Honda did respond to calls for more power by introducing a supercharged version through their Mugen division, which featured various accessories and performance upgrades. This version, though limited, showcased the CR-Z’s potential.
- In the U.S. market, Honda offered a similar solution by releasing a Honda Performance Development (HPD) supercharger kit for 2013 and 2014 manual models. This significantly improved acceleration times and left enthusiasts wondering whether fitting an HPD kit to existing CR-Z models today could unlock even more potential.
- Despite being ahead of its time, the CR-Z struggled to find a strong foothold in the market. Its unconventional hybrid powertrain and modest performance failed to attract widespread buyer interest, leading to lower-than-expected sales. As a result, the CR-Z has experienced significant depreciation in the used car market, making it a relatively affordable option today.
- In Australia, three different trim levels were available, and due to the CR-Z’s lack of raw straight-line performance, many examples have escaped the hands of overly aggressive drivers and have avoided heavy modifications.
- This means that many CR-Zs available on the used market remain in relatively good condition compared to other sporty models from the same era.
- However, the hybrid powertrain is quite complex, and with affordable prices on the second-hand market, buyers should approach with caution. Maintenance costs and potential repairs may outweigh the low purchase price, so it’s important to be aware of any potential issues before making a decision. If you’re considering a used CR-Z, continue reading to learn more about what to watch out for.
What goes wrong
Exterior Issues:
- One of the most common issues CR-Z owners have encountered relates to the door handles, which can fail or even break off. This problem is particularly prevalent in hot climates, especially with early production models. Over time, the plastic handles become harder to operate and may eventually stop functioning altogether. Fortunately, this is a relatively inexpensive fix for those who enjoy DIY projects. Owner groups often provide useful tutorials and advice on how to repair the handles yourself.
- Another occasional problem is with the door lock actuators and tailgate lock malfunctioning. Although not widespread, some owners have reported issues in these areas. Fortunately, fixing these problems is typically simple and affordable.
- In terms of paint, like many Hondas from the 2000s, the CR-Z’s paint is known to be on the thin side. This can lead to fading, especially on the roof and bonnet, if the car is kept outdoors and not properly cared for. It’s also worth checking the rear hatch area, as the paint and clear coat in this section are notoriously thin.
- Rust is not a common concern in Australia, but in colder climates where roads are salted, a few owners have started to report rust around the rear wheel arches. However, this issue is rare in Australia.
- A minor but notable issue involves the shark fin antenna, which can become loose or even fall off. If left unattended, water can leak into the cabin through the mounting point. Thankfully, tightening the single nut holding it in place is easy by simply dropping the headliner.
- Some CR-Z models have developed condensation in the rear lights, though this isn’t a widespread problem. Headlight yellowing, a common issue in cars from this era, may also occur. However, a larger issue with exterior parts is their availability. With the CR-Z being a low-volume seller, spare parts are becoming rare and expensive. Honda Australia charges a premium for replacement parts, and some owners have reported waiting weeks, or even months, for parts to arrive. A workaround is to source parts directly from Honda in Japan or the U.S., which many owners have found to be both faster and more affordable.
Interior Issues:
- Inside the CR-Z, complaints are relatively few and far between.
- Some owners have reported that dash buttons can yellow or fade over time, while the silvery trim on the center console and door handles is prone to scratching.
- The glovebox may occasionally refuse to open, and some of the interior plastics can become brittle over time. Unfortunately, replacement plastic components can be quite costly for what they are.
- As expected with a
Exterior Issues:
- One of the most common issues CR-Z owners have encountered relates to the door handles, which can fail or even break off. This problem is particularly prevalent in hot climates, especially with early production models. Over time, the plastic handles become harder to operate and may eventually stop functioning altogether. Fortunately, this is a relatively inexpensive fix for those who enjoy DIY projects. Owner groups often provide useful tutorials and advice on how to repair the handles yourself.
- Another occasional problem is with the door lock actuators and tailgate lock malfunctioning. Although not widespread, some owners have reported issues in these areas. Fortunately, fixing these problems is typically simple and affordable.
- In terms of paint, like many Hondas from the 2000s, the CR-Z’s paint is known to be on the thin side. This can lead to fading, especially on the roof and bonnet, if the car is kept outdoors and not properly cared for. It’s also worth checking the rear hatch area, as the paint and clear coat in this section are notoriously thin.
- Rust is not a common concern in Australia, but in colder climates where roads are salted, a few owners have started to report rust around the rear wheel arches. However, this issue is rare in Australia.
- A minor but notable issue involves the shark fin antenna, which can become loose or even fall off. If left unattended, water can leak into the cabin through the mounting point. Thankfully, tightening the single nut holding it in place is easy by simply dropping the headliner.
- Some CR-Z models have developed condensation in the rear lights, though this isn’t a widespread problem. Headlight yellowing, a common issue in cars from this era, may also occur. However, a larger issue with exterior parts is their availability. With the CR-Z being a low-volume seller, spare parts are becoming rare and expensive. Honda Australia charges a premium for replacement parts, and some owners have reported waiting weeks, or even months, for parts to arrive. A workaround is to source parts directly from Honda in Japan or the U.S., which many owners have found to be both faster and more affordable.
Interior Issues:
- Inside the CR-Z, complaints are relatively few and far between.
- Some owners have reported that dash buttons can yellow or fade over time, while the silvery trim on the center console and door handles is prone to scratching.
- The glovebox may occasionally refuse to open, and some of the interior plastics can become brittle over time. Unfortunately, replacement plastic components can be quite costly for what they are.
- As expected with a vehicle of this age, many owners have commented that the factory infotainment system feels outdated compared to modern units. However, upgrading to an aftermarket system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth is a straightforward process, and significantly improves the overall driving experience.
Mechanical Issues:
- Mechanically, the CR-Z has a solid reputation for reliability, especially when a full service history is available. However, a few areas require attention.
- Some owners have reported Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve issues, which may need cleaning or, in some cases, replacement.
- Oil dilution can also be a concern, particularly in colder climates, making regular servicing critical to avoid this issue.
- Ground points for the engine and ECU can cause problems, while 12-volt battery issues are another common occurrence. These stem from the car prioritising efficiency, which can lead to undercharging the battery.
- The hybrid system has seen significant improvement over the years. Early models with Nickel-metal hydride batteries were prone to problems with longevity, durability, and self-discharge. The post-2013 models, which switched to Lithium-Ion batteries, represent a substantial improvement in both performance and reliability.
- One of the main components of the hybrid system, the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), can generate fault codes for a wide range of issues. These faults may be triggered by everything from the clutch position switch to the 12-volt battery or the hybrid battery cooling fan.
- The Intelligent Power Unit (IPU), which houses the hybrid battery, inverters, and air conditioning drivers, can also suffer from heat-related problems, with the battery cooling fan being a common point of failure.
- Extreme hot or cold climates can accelerate battery degradation, so these conditions are particularly hard on the CR-Z’s hybrid system.
Transmission Issues:
- The CR-Z’s CVT transmission is generally reliable but requires meticulous servicing. Using the correct specification of oil is essential, as the wrong oil can lead to premature failure. Regular CVT servicing is critical to maintaining longevity.
- For the manual transmission, fewer issues have been reported, although some examples that have been driven aggressively may develop synchro problems. This is less common, but potential buyers of manual CR-Zs should inspect the transmission’s health, especially in vehicles that may have been pushed hard.
Exterior Issues:
- One of the most common issues CR-Z owners have encountered relates to the door handles, which can fail or even break off. This problem is particularly prevalent in hot climates, especially with early production models. Over time, the plastic handles become harder to operate and may eventually stop functioning altogether. Fortunately, this is a relatively inexpensive fix for those who enjoy DIY projects. Owner groups often provide useful tutorials and advice on how to repair the handles yourself.
- Another occasional problem is with the door lock actuators and tailgate lock malfunctioning. Although not widespread, some owners have reported issues in these areas. Fortunately, fixing these problems is typically simple and affordable.
- In terms of paint, like many Hondas from the 2000s, the CR-Z’s paint is known to be on the thin side. This can lead to fading, especially on the roof and bonnet, if the car is kept outdoors and not properly cared for. It’s also worth checking the rear hatch area, as the paint and clear coat in this section are notoriously thin.
- Rust is not a common concern in Australia, but in colder climates where roads are salted, a few owners have started to report rust around the rear wheel arches. However, this issue is rare in Australia.
- A minor but notable issue involves the shark fin antenna, which can become loose or even fall off. If left unattended, water can leak into the cabin through the mounting point. Thankfully, tightening the single nut holding it in place is easy by simply dropping the headliner.
- Some CR-Z models have developed condensation in the rear lights, though this isn’t a widespread problem. Headlight yellowing, a common issue in cars from this era, may also occur. However, a larger issue with exterior parts is their availability. With the CR-Z being a low-volume seller, spare parts are becoming rare and expensive. Honda Australia charges a premium for replacement parts, and some owners have reported waiting weeks, or even months, for parts to arrive. A workaround is to source parts directly from Honda in Japan or the U.S., which many owners have found to be both faster and more affordable.
Interior Issues:
- Inside the CR-Z, complaints are relatively few and far between.
- Some owners have reported that dash buttons can yellow or fade over time, while the silvery trim on the center console and door handles is prone to scratching.
- The glovebox may occasionally refuse to open, and some of the interior plastics can become brittle over time. Unfortunately, replacement plastic components can be quite costly for what they are.
- As expected with a vehicle of this age, many owners have commented that the factory infotainment system feels outdated compared to modern units. However, upgrading to an aftermarket system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth is a straightforward process, and significantly improves the overall driving experience.
Mechanical Issues:
- Mechanically, the CR-Z has a solid reputation for reliability, especially when a full service history is available. However, a few areas require attention.
- Some owners have reported Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve issues, which may need cleaning or, in some cases, replacement.
- Oil dilution can also be a concern, particularly in colder climates, making regular servicing critical to avoid this issue.
- Ground points for the engine and ECU can cause problems, while 12-volt battery issues are another common occurrence. These stem from the car prioritising efficiency, which can lead to undercharging the battery.
- The hybrid system has seen significant improvement over the years. Early models with Nickel-metal hydride batteries were prone to problems with longevity, durability, and self-discharge. The post-2013 models, which switched to Lithium-Ion batteries, represent a substantial improvement in both performance and reliability.
- One of the main components of the hybrid system, the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), can generate fault codes for a wide range of issues. These faults may be triggered by everything from the clutch position switch to the 12-volt battery or the hybrid battery cooling fan.
- The Intelligent Power Unit (IPU), which houses the hybrid battery, inverters, and air conditioning drivers, can also suffer from heat-related problems, with the battery cooling fan being a common point of failure.
- Extreme hot or cold climates can accelerate battery degradation, so these conditions are particularly hard on the CR-Z’s hybrid system.
Transmission Issues:
- The CR-Z’s CVT transmission is generally reliable but requires meticulous servicing. Using the correct specification of oil is essential, as the wrong oil can lead to premature failure. Regular CVT servicing is critical to maintaining longevity.
- For the manual transmission, fewer issues have been reported, although some examples that have been driven aggressively may develop synchro problems. This is less common, but potential buyers of manual CR-Zs should inspect the transmission’s health, especially in vehicles that may have been pushed hard.
Should you buy it?
One hesitation you might have about purchasing a used Honda CR-Z is the array of alternative options in the same price range. At current asking prices, there are several more celebrated and higher-performance vehicles to consider. These include the Ford Fiesta ST, Volkswagen Scirocco, Abarth 595, and Hyundai Veloster. The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are also strong contenders, along with the BMW 1 Series, Audi TT, Renault Clio Sport, and Peugeot 208 GTi.
However, while these competitors may be tempting, none offer the same level of uniqueness that the CR-Z does. The CR-Z stands apart from the crowd with its hybrid powertrain, sporty design, and a balance of efficiency and fun that few rivals can match.
In the right hands, the CR-Z is just as entertaining to drive as many of its competitors, while potentially costing you less in fuel and running expenses. Despite its compact size, it’s practical for what it is, and its rarity on the roads makes it feel more exclusive. Being a Honda, the build quality and reliability are typically excellent, offering peace of mind in ownership. Additionally, its distinctive design ensures that the CR-Z has a visual appeal unlike anything else on the market, even years after its release.
So, should you buy one? Absolutely, as long as it passes a thorough pre-purchase inspection. It’s a reliable, fun-to-drive hybrid with character, practicality, and exclusivity that’s hard to find elsewhere.
In fact, given how ahead of its time the CR-Z
One hesitation you might have about purchasing a used Honda CR-Z is the array of alternative options in the same price range. At current asking prices, there are several more celebrated and higher-performance vehicles to consider. These include the Ford Fiesta ST, Volkswagen Scirocco, Abarth 595, and Hyundai Veloster. The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are also strong contenders, along with the BMW 1 Series, Audi TT, Renault Clio Sport, and Peugeot 208 GTi.
However, while these competitors may be tempting, none offer the same level of uniqueness that the CR-Z does. The CR-Z stands apart from the crowd with its hybrid powertrain, sporty design, and a balance of efficiency and fun that few rivals can match.
In the right hands, the CR-Z is just as entertaining to drive as many of its competitors, while potentially costing you less in fuel and running expenses. Despite its compact size, it’s practical for what it is, and its rarity on the roads makes it feel more exclusive. Being a Honda, the build quality and reliability are typically excellent, offering peace of mind in ownership. Additionally, its distinctive design ensures that the CR-Z has a visual appeal unlike anything else on the market, even years after its release.
So, should you buy one? Absolutely, as long as it passes a thorough pre-purchase inspection. It’s a reliable, fun-to-drive hybrid with character, practicality, and exclusivity that’s hard to find elsewhere.
In fact, given how ahead of its time the CR-Z was with its hybrid powertrain and sporty design, there’s a strong case to be made that the right CR-Z could become a future classic.
Should you buy it?
One hesitation you might have about purchasing a used Honda CR-Z is the array of alternative options in the same price range. At current asking prices, there are several more celebrated and higher-performance vehicles to consider. These include the Ford Fiesta ST, Volkswagen Scirocco, Abarth 595, and Hyundai Veloster. The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are also strong contenders, along with the BMW 1 Series, Audi TT, Renault Clio Sport, and Peugeot 208 GTi.
However, while these competitors may be tempting, none offer the same level of uniqueness that the CR-Z does. The CR-Z stands apart from the crowd with its hybrid powertrain, sporty design, and a balance of efficiency and fun that few rivals can match.
In the right hands, the CR-Z is just as entertaining to drive as many of its competitors, while potentially costing you less in fuel and running expenses. Despite its compact size, it’s practical for what it is, and its rarity on the roads makes it feel more exclusive. Being a Honda, the build quality and reliability are typically excellent, offering peace of mind in ownership. Additionally, its distinctive design ensures that the CR-Z has a visual appeal unlike anything else on the market, even years after its release.
So, should you buy one? Absolutely, as long as it passes a thorough pre-purchase inspection. It’s a reliable, fun-to-drive hybrid with character, practicality, and exclusivity that’s hard to find elsewhere.
In fact, given how ahead of its time the CR-Z was with its hybrid powertrain and sporty design, there’s a strong case to be made that the right CR-Z could become a future classic.
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Models, pricing & features
Tech specs
Body Styles
- 3 door Coupe
Engine Specs
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 84kW / 174Nm (Sport 2011 – 2013)
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 84kW / 167Nm (Sport 2011 – 2013, Luxury 2011 – 2013)
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 100kW / 190Nm (CR-Z 2013)
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 99kW / 172Nm (CR-Z 2013)
Transmission
- 6-speed Manual (Sport, CR-Z)
- 7-speed Constantly Variable Transmission (Sport, Luxury, CR-Z)
Fuel Consumption
- 4.3 – 5.2 / 100km (Sport, Luxury)
- 4.7 – 5.6 / 100km (CR-Z)
Length
- 4075mm – 4080mm (All Models)
Width
- 1740mm (All Models)
Height
- 1395mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2435mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1155kg – 1199kg (All Models)
Towing
- Not listed (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars (All Models)
Body Styles
- 3 door Coupe
Engine Specs
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 84kW / 174Nm (Sport 2011 – 2013)
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 84kW / 167Nm (Sport 2011 – 2013, Luxury 2011 – 2013)
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 100kW / 190Nm (CR-Z 2013)
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 99kW / 172Nm (CR-Z 2013)
Transmission
- 6-speed Manual (Sport, CR-Z)
- 7-speed Constantly Variable Transmission (Sport, Luxury, CR-Z)
Fuel Consumption
- 4.3 – 5.2 / 100km (Sport, Luxury)
- 4.7 – 5.6 / 100km (CR-Z)
Length
- 4075mm – 4080mm (All Models)
Width
- 1740mm (All Models)
Height
- 1395mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2435mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1155kg – 1199kg (All Models)
Towing
- Not listed (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars (All Models)
Body Styles
- 3 door Coupe
Engine Specs
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 84kW / 174Nm (Sport 2011 – 2013)
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 84kW / 167Nm (Sport 2011 – 2013, Luxury 2011 – 2013)
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 100kW / 190Nm (CR-Z 2013)
- 1.5i/10kW Hybrid 4-cylinder petrol, 99kW / 172Nm (CR-Z 2013)
Transmission
- 6-speed Manual (Sport, CR-Z)
- 7-speed Constantly Variable Transmission (Sport, Luxury, CR-Z)
Fuel Consumption
- 4.3 – 5.2 / 100km (Sport, Luxury)
- 4.7 – 5.6 / 100km (CR-Z)
Length
- 4075mm – 4080mm (All Models)
Width
- 1740mm (All Models)
Height
- 1395mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2435mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1155kg – 1199kg (All Models)
Towing
- Not listed (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars (All Models)
Warranty & servicing
Warranty
- 3 years / 100,000 km (All Models)
Servicing
- 10,000 km / 6 months (All Models)
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Aug 20, 2024.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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