Did the CRX have VTEC?
Yes, but only in limited markets and trims. Japanese-market CR-X SiR variants used a VTEC-equipped engine, while U.S.-spec CR-X models did not offer VTEC. Here is how that played out across generations and regions.
To understand the question in full, it helps to place the CR-X in Honda’s broader VTEC history and note which markets received VTEC-equipped versions of the CR-X. The following sections outline the key details and distinctions.
What VTEC is and why it matters for the CR-X
VTEC, Honda’s variable valve timing and lift electronic control system, allows engines to switch between different cam profiles for improved high-rpm performance and stronger low-end torque. The technology first appeared on Honda’s high-performance engines in the late 1980s and spread to various models throughout the 1990s. Whether a CR-X used VTEC determined its power characteristics and how it was perceived by enthusiasts.
CR-X generations and engine options
The Honda CR-X evolved over two broad generations. Early CR-X models (1983–1987) used smaller, non-VTEC engines, while the later second generation (1987–1991/1994 in the U.S.) introduced higher-performance variants in some regions. Across these generations, VTEC was not universally offered on the CR-X; it appeared only on select Japanese-market variants and on related platforms in some markets.
Markets and trims that offered VTEC on the CR-X
The following list highlights where a VTEC-equipped CR-X existed and where it did not exist.
- Japanese-market CR-X SiR (1992–1995): featured a 1.6L DOHC VTEC engine (B16A).
- US-market CR-X variants (including common trims in the 1980s–early 1990s): did not offer VTEC on the CR-X itself; non‑VTEC engines were used in these models.
In summary, the CR-X’s VTEC presence was limited to Japan in the SiR variants, and it did not apply to the U.S.-spec CR-X lineup. The broader VTEC story connected to the CR-X through related models like the Del Sol, which did offer VTEC in various markets.
Relation to the Del Sol and broader Honda VTEC era
As the CR-X era waned, Honda’s VTEC-equipped lineup expanded with the Del Sol and other models. The Del Sol—seen by many as the successor to the CR-X in certain markets—did offer VTEC in several trims and markets, including the U.S. This context helps explain why VTEC is sometimes associated with the CR-X in enthusiasts’ discussions, even though the CR-X itself did not universally wear a VTEC badge.
Summary
The CR-X did have VTEC, but only in limited markets and trims—most notably the Japanese-market CR-X SiR with a B16A VTEC engine. The U.S.-spec CR-X did not offer VTEC, so its performance characteristics varied by region. For enthusiasts, the CR-X VTEC distinction mostly rests on Japan-only variants and the related Del Sol’s broader adoption of VTEC in the same era. This nuance is important when identifying authentic period-correct specifications.
Which Hondas had VTEC?
Many modern and classic Honda vehicles feature VTEC technology, including models like the Civic, Accord, CR-V, HR-V, and Integra. VTEC is available across a wide range of trims, from performance-oriented models like the Civic Type R to more practical SUVs like the CR-V and base trims on some models in different markets.
Common models with VTEC
- Civic: Found in various trims, including performance models like the Si and Type R, as well as standard and hybrid versions.
- Accord: Available in a variety of sedan models.
- CR-V: Found in the versatile SUV, boosting fuel efficiency and practicality.
- HR-V: The compact SUV includes VTEC in its engine options.
- Integra: A classic performance model that was among the first to feature VTEC.
- S2000: The two-seater sports car is a high-performance model that utilizes VTEC.
Types of VTEC
- i-VTEC: A more advanced system found in many modern Honda vehicles that improves performance and fuel economy.
- VTEC Turbo: A combination of VTEC and turbocharging used in models like the Civic Type R and some versions of the Accord and CR-V to provide significant power.
What engine does the CRX have?
The Honda CRX engine type varies by model year, with common options including a 1.5L inline-4 in earlier models and a 1.6L inline-4 in later Si and VTi models. High-performance Si models often featured a 1.6L DOHC engine, while the highest-performance Japanese market SiR models used the more advanced 1.6L DOHC VTEC engine.
Engine variations by model year and trim
- Early models (Gen 1): Featured a 1.5L SOHC engine, with some markets offering a 1.3L in the earliest years.
- 1.5L models (US DX): Equipped with a 1.5L 16-valve D15B2 engine.
- 1.5L HF models (US): Used a 1.5L 8-valve D15B6 engine for high fuel efficiency.
- Si models (US): Featured a 1.6L 16-valve D16A6 engine, a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) unit.
- VTi models (Japan): Equipped with a 1.6L DOHC VTEC engine.
- SiR models (Japan): Featured the most powerful B16A DOHC VTEC engine.
- del Sol models: Continued this trend, with options including a 1.5L SOHC VTEC or a more powerful 1.6L DOHC VTEC.
Does CRX have VTEC?
The CR-X was the second car to receive a DOHC VTEC engine, shortly after the Honda Integra XSi.
Did the 1993 Del Sol have VTEC?
However, to keep Japanese-market performance enthusiasts happy, Honda is offering a zoomy 1.6-liter four with twin cams, sixteen valves, and VTEC (Honda's variable-valve-timing and lift system), good for 168 horsepower in the top-of-the-line CRX del Sol SiR.
