Is Honda Preparing to Bring Back the Civic-Based CRX?

The new sedan and coupe models are slightly longer and wider than any previous Civic. (Photo: Alexandra Straub,Canadian Auto Press)

While new model will do much to restore the shine, Honda hasn't given any clues as to a return to an entry-level hatchback. While there are at least rumblings about the upcoming CRX, a model made popular in its day for the same reasons as its hatchback sibling, it still remains to be seen if Honda brings the classic name back as a top-of-the-range model in the Civic lineup or as an inexpensive two-seat sports car, with a full range of engine choices similar to the old version. The new base sedan would be a good framework for a budget CRX, and the new lineup of engines would make even the least powerful much more engaging than the previous generation CRX Si.

Like the new lineup of Civic sedans and coupes, base CRX models could feature 15-inch wheels standard, with 16s on a mid-grade model, possibly an EX, and 17s on the top-line Si.

The new sedan and coupe models are slightly longer and wider than any previous Civic, so therefore a new CRX would probably grow in length and width as well. The new car would also be heavier thanks to more safety related gear, but this and its increased size probably wouldn't hamper performance much, however, due to the aforementioned power upgrades. A future CRX would probably make use of the unique two-tiered Civic dash too, which includes a sporty instrument binnacle that juts out from behind the performance-oriented steering wheel.

Lastly, there would be no reason to resurrect the CRX nameplate without making it a two-seat hatchback, and currently the only two-seat Honda coupe is the oddly styled Citroen-esque Insight hybrid model. But hold on, could the return to a CRX also include a hybrid drivetrain, and with that, the end of the line for the slow-selling Insight? This is, of course, is pure speculation, as there will be a strong contingent among Honda's board of directors lobbying for an end to the Insight and possibly all non-roadster

If a CRX is in the cards, then don't expect it for another two years. (Photo: Honda Canada)

two-seaters. The argument is that these are impractical cars to begin with, the reason many will say that the Insight hasn't sold very well. While this is no doubt partially true, the Insight's slow sales might have more to do with its unorthodox styling than any lack of storage space or people-hauling capacity. A better looking two-seater would no doubt fair much better, hybrid or not.

If a CRX is in the cards, then don't expect it for another two years. The return to its sporting roots would be a good thing for Honda, and my guess is that if Japan's number three automaker brings it to market cheap enough for upstart tuners, which means offering it in a stripped-down entry-level format, it will be a big success and go far to enhance the Civic lineup's image.