How do I know if my CR-V is an ex or LX?
The quickest way to tell is by checking the badges and the features: EX trims typically have an EX badge and added equipment like a sunroof, upgraded infotainment, and Honda Sensing, while LX is the base with fewer options.
Beyond the badge, the CR-V's equipment can vary by model year and market. This guide walks you through reliable visual cues, how to verify with official documents, and what to check if you’re shopping used.
At a glance: signs your CR-V is LX or EX
Use these observable cues as a quick guide. Keep in mind that features can vary by year and region, so the window sticker or VIN remains the definitive source.
EX trims generally include a one-touch power sunroof or moonroof; LX often lacks this feature. Honda Sensing (adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation) is commonly standard on EX and higher; LX may have it as an option on older years or may lack it entirely depending on generation. EX frequently includes a power-adjustable driver's seat; LX commonly has manual seating adjustments and fewer premium interior features. EX is typically equipped with more premium alloy wheels and styling cues; LX wheels are often simpler in design.
If you see most of the LX indicators and none of the EX upgrades, your CR-V is likely LX. If you observe sunroof, Sensing features, larger touchscreen, or power seats, you’re likely looking at EX or higher.
Verify with the VIN or window sticker
When badges and hardware aren’t conclusive, use official documentation to confirm the trim.
- Locate the vehicle identification number (VIN). It’s usually stamped on the lower left of the dashboard (visible through the windshield) and on the driver’s door jamb.
- Check the window sticker (Monroney label) or the owner’s manual. The sticker lists the trim (LX, EX, EX-L, Touring) and all standard and optional equipment for that exact vehicle.
- Use the VIN to decode the build and trim. Honda’s official resources or reputable third‑party VIN decoders can translate the code into the trim level and factory options.
- Cross‑check the listed features (sunroof, Sensing, display size, power seats, etc.) with what you see on the car. If the sticker and features align with EX, it’s EX; if they align with LX, it’s LX.
- If you’re unsure, contact a Honda dealer with the VIN for a definitive confirmation.
Using the VIN and window sticker is the most reliable way to confirm whether a CR-V is LX or EX, especially for used vehicles where cosmetic cues may have been altered or updated with aftermarket parts.
Year-by-year context (quick note)
Trim names and feature packages can shift across generations. In most recent years, EX sits above LX and adds items such as a sunroof and enhanced safety/infotainment options, with EX-L and Touring trims offering additional upgrades. Because features can change between model years and markets, always verify with the window sticker or VIN decode for the exact vehicle you’re examining.
- Generation overlap: LX vs EX distinctions are most relevant when comparing trims within the same generation. Across generations, the same names may carry different feature sets.
- Optional packages: Some years offered packages that could blur the line between LX and EX (for example, dealer‑installed options or mid‑year refreshes).
If you’re shopping used, treat the VIN/window sticker as your primary source of truth, and use the observable cues as a quick cross‑check.
What to do if your CR-V has no clear badge or sticker
When badges and paperwork aren’t helping, use a practical checklist to infer the trim and plan accordingly.
- Inspect the interior for a sunroof, power driver's seat, and a larger touchscreen with CarPlay/Android Auto—these are strong EX indicators.
- Test safety features if available—Honda Sensing functions like lane-keeping assist or adaptive cruise control point toward EX or higher.
- Ask the seller for the original window sticker or a build sheet. If they’re unavailable, request the VIN for a formal confirmation.
- Compare the vehicle’s features against official brochures for your model year to gauge what should be included on LX vs EX.
Although visual cues help, final confirmation should come from official documentation tied to the exact vehicle you’re evaluating.
Summary
In most recent Honda CR-V generations, LX is the base trim and EX is the step up with extra features such as a sunroof, larger infotainment and safety tech. The quickest way to know for sure is to check the window sticker or use the VIN to decode the trim. Look for an EX badge, sunroof, Honda Sensing, a bigger touchscreen, and power seating as practical indicators of EX. When in doubt, confirm with a Honda dealer using the VIN. This approach ensures you accurately identify whether your CR-V is LX or EX, no matter the year or market.
How do I know what model Honda CRV I have?
You can identify your CR-V's model by checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is visible on the dashboard near the windshield or on a sticker in the driver's side doorjamb. You can decode the VIN online or check the owner's manual or the original window sticker for the specific model and trim level. Alternatively, some models have exterior or interior features that can help distinguish the trim.
Method 1: Use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
This video shows how to find the VIN on a Honda CR-V: 58sVirar AutomotiveYouTube · Sep 27, 2023
- Locate the VIN: The VIN is a 17-character code.
- Look through the lower-right corner of the windshield from the outside.
- Open the driver's side door and check the sticker on the doorjamb.
- Check the firewall under the hood, where the VIN may be stamped on a metal plate.
- Look in the trunk or liftgate jamb on a sticker.
- Decode the VIN:
- Use the VIN on the dashboard or doorjamb to look up your car's details on a free VIN decoder website.
- The VIN can provide information about the model year, trim level, and other options.
- Alternatively, check your owner's manual, as it should have a spot to write the VIN.
Method 2: Check the original window sticker or owner's manual
- If you have it, the original window sticker will have all the details of the specific car, including the trim level.
- The owner's manual will also list the vehicle's make, model, and trim information.
Method 3: Compare features with model specifications
- Check for a sunroof: Many higher trims have a sunroof, while base models do not.
- Look at the wheels: Some models have alloy wheels, while lower trims may have steel wheels with covers.
- Inspect interior features: Differences can include manual vs. power windows and locks, or a more upgraded stereo system.
- Examine exterior details: Trim differences can be seen in things like fog lights, heated mirrors, or the design of the grille.
How do I know if my Honda CRV is an EX or LX?
LX, no armrests, no ABS, no alloys, black mirrors and door handles. EX driver's side armrest, ABS, alloys, color matched mirrors and door handles SE, Leather, armrests for both front passengers, ABS, alloys, color matched bumpers and color matched hard spare tire cover.
What is the difference between a Honda CRV EX and an EX L?
The main differences between the Honda CR-V EX and EX-L are that the EX-L adds luxury and convenience features not found in the EX, including leather-trimmed seats, a larger 9-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a power tailgate, and a wireless charging pad. The EX-L also includes enhanced driver and passenger comfort with features like memory seat settings and a power-adjustable front passenger seat.
You can watch this video for a visual comparison of the Honda CR-V EX and EX-L, highlighting their key differences: 58sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Sep 21, 2024
Honda CR-V EX vs. EX-L
| Feature | EX | EX-L |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Cloth-trimmed seats | Leather-trimmed seats |
| Driver's Seat | Manual adjustments | 8-way power-adjustable with memory settings |
| Passenger Seat | Manual adjustments | 4-way power-adjustable |
| Infotainment Screen | 7-inch touchscreen (wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) | 9-inch touchscreen (wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) |
| Audio System | 6-speaker audio system | 8-speaker audio system |
| Wireless Features | Wireless charging is not available | Wireless phone charging pad |
| Tailgate | Manual tailgate | Power tailgate |
| Interior Trim | Matte black plastic accents | Piano black trim accents |
| Rearview Mirror | Standard rearview mirror | Auto-dimming rearview mirror |
| Safety Technology | Standard Honda Sensing suite | Includes front and rear parking sensors, and low-speed braking control |
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How do I know if I have an ex or lx Honda?
The Honda EX and LX models have key differences in features, not just price. For example, the Civic LX has a 2.0L engine while the Accord EX has a 1.5L engine. Similarly, the Honda Accord EX has heated seats, a moonroof feature, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system, unlike the Honda Accord LX.
