2011 Honda CR-Z EX Top Speed: What You Need to Know

The 2011 Honda CR-Z EX is typically limited to about 124 mph (200 km/h) with the 6-speed manual transmission, while versions equipped with the CVT top out closer to 112 mph (180 km/h). Those figures reflect manufacturer constraints and independent testing, and they vary slightly based on transmission and conditions.

Contents

Why the Number Varies
What Can Influence the Result
Performance Context and Safety
Summary

Why the Number Varies

Although the EX is a higher trim with additional features, its drivetrain is essentially the same as other CR-Z models. That means top speed depends less on trim and more on the transmission and electronic speed limiter settings. In independent road tests from the model’s launch year, manual cars regularly reached the low‑120s mph, while CVT models were capped lower due to gearing and limiter calibration.

Manual (6-speed) Models

Manual-transmission 2011 CR-Z EX models typically achieve an electronically limited top speed around 124 mph (200 km/h). This aligns with period instrumented tests by U.S. publications that recorded top speeds in the low‑120s.

CVT (Paddle-Shift) Models

CVT-equipped CR-Z EX models are generally limited to roughly 112 mph (180 km/h). The lower ceiling reflects transmission strategy and factory limiter settings designed to protect the powertrain and stay within tire speed ratings.

What Can Influence the Result

Real-world top speed is affected by more than just the car’s rating. The following factors can raise or lower the achievable figure in practice.

Transmission and limiter: Manual cars allow higher sustained speeds before hitting the electronic limiter; CVTs are capped earlier.

Tires and wheels: Speed ratings, rolling resistance, and tire condition can constrain or slightly alter top speed.

Aerodynamics and load: Roof racks, open windows, passengers, and cargo increase drag and weight, trimming peak speed.

Altitude and temperature: Thinner air at elevation reduces power; extreme heat can also sap performance.

Road grade and surface: Even slight inclines or rough surfaces can reduce the achievable maximum.

Mechanical condition: Engine, hybrid battery health, and maintenance status influence output and limiter behavior.

Taken together, these variables explain why two otherwise identical CR-Z EX models might show slightly different maximums on the same stretch of road.

Performance Context and Safety

With a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine paired to Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system, the 2011 CR-Z EX produces around 122 hp (manual) and delivers modest straight-line pace. It was engineered for efficiency and handling balance rather than outright speed. Any top-speed testing should be left to closed-course environments, with proper tires and safety precautions, and in adherence to local laws.

Summary

The 2011 Honda CR-Z EX reaches about 124 mph (200 km/h) with the 6-speed manual and about 112 mph (180 km/h) with the CVT, constrained largely by electronic limiters and transmission setup. Real-world results can vary, but those figures reflect the commonly reported and tested range for this model year and trim.

Is a 2011 Honda CR-Z a good car?

Edmunds says. Hard-core enthusiasts will likely be disappointed, but somebody just looking for a sporty two-door with good fuel economy will likely be pleased with the 2011 Honda CR-Z.

How much horsepower does a 2011 Honda CR-Z EX have?

122 @ 6000 RPM

How fast does a Honda CR-Z go?

This enables the car to accelerate from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 6.1 seconds before hitting a top speed in excess of 130 mph (209 km/h).

What is the top speed of a 2011 Honda CR-Z?

As expected, our CVT test car’s skidpad (0.86 g), top-speed (121 mph), and 70-to-0-mph braking (180 ft) numbers are all within spitting distance of the manual car’s.