The 1988 Honda CRX offered two main engine choices in the U.S. market: a 1.5-liter inline-four for base trims and a 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve engine for the sportier Si; there was also a smaller 1.3-liter engine in the HF economy model.
Engine options by trim
Here's a quick rundown of the engines available in the 1988 CRX, organized by trim to show how performance and efficiency varied across the line.
- CRX DX/GL (base and mid-range trims): 1.5-liter inline-four, SOHC, typically around 92–95 horsepower.
- CRX Si (sport model): 1.6-liter inline-four, DOHC with 16 valves, about 108 horsepower.
- CRX HF (high fuel efficiency): 1.3-liter inline-four, CVCC, roughly 60–70 horsepower.
In practice, the exact power figures could vary by market and emissions equipment, but these were the standard configurations offered for the 1988 CRX lineup.
Engine specifications and performance
The performance figures below reflect typical ranges for U.S.-spec 1988 CRX engines, noting that real-world numbers can vary with condition, tuning, and drivetrain wear.
- 1.5L inline-four (DX/GL): roughly 92–95 hp with torque in the neighborhood of 95–100 lb-ft.
- 1.6L DOHC 16-valve (Si): roughly 108 hp and about 100 lb-ft of torque.
- 1.3L inline-four (HF): around 60–70 hp with lower torque, emphasizing efficiency over outright speed.
These figures illustrate how the 1988 CRX balanced economy and sportiness within a small, lightweight package. Restorers and owners should verify engine type by checking the engine code on the valve cover and matching it to the trim.
Notes on market variations and verification tips
Engine availability and specifications can vary by market and model year, even within the same generation. If you’re restoring an example or buying a used CRX, it helps to:
- Check the vehicle’s VIN and engine code to confirm the exact powerplant.
- Inspect the intake, exhaust, and emission systems, as some markets used different configurations for compliance.
- Refer to the service manual for your specific trim/year to confirm original horsepower and torque figures.
For most 1988 CRX buyers and owners, the choice boiled down to a fuel-efficient 1.3L or 1.5L engine, or the livelier 1.6L Si powerplant for those seeking sportier performance.
Summary
The 1988 Honda CRX offered three engine configurations in most markets: a 1.5-liter SOHC for DX/GL trims, a 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve for the Si, and a 1.3-liter CVCC for the HF efficiency model. The Si provided the strongest performance of the lineup, while the HF prioritized fuel economy. Always confirm the exact engine by checking the engine code and matching it to the specific trim and year.