Is the Honda EX better than the LX?

In most Honda lineups, the EX trim is generally better than the LX because it adds features such as enhanced infotainment, a sunroof, and more safety tech. That said, the extra cost and features may not fit every budget or every driver’s needs.

This article explains how EX and LX typically differ across popular Honda models, what those differences mean in daily use, and how to decide whether upgrading is worth the extra investment. Because equipment can vary by model year and trim package, always verify the exact specifications on the window sticker from your dealer.

What EX and LX Usually Include

Here is a broad look at the kinds of features that typically separate EX from LX across Honda models.

• Upgraded powertrain or performance emphasis in many EX trims, including more capable engines or tuned drivetrains compared with LX in several generations.


• Enhanced exterior styling and convenience features, such as alloy wheels and available sunroof or moonroof.


• Improved infotainment and connectivity, often with a larger touchscreen and more advanced smartphone integration.


• Interior comfort upgrades, like a power-adjustable driver's seat and upgraded upholstery in some models and years.


• Additional safety and driver-assistance features that are commonly bundled in EX, compared with LX, though exact contents vary by model/year.

In short, EX generally adds a mix of convenience, technology, and safety features that many buyers find value in. However, the precise equipment and availability depend on the specific model and year you’re considering.

Is the EX Worth the Extra Cost?

To determine whether the upgrade makes sense for you, weigh the practical benefits against the price gap and your long-term plans for the car.

• Pricing difference: EX trims typically cost more than LX; the delta varies by model and year. Consider whether the added features justify the higher price tag for your budget.


• Usage and needs: If you value features like a sunroof, a nicer infotainment system, or additional safety tech, EX is more appealing. If you mostly need common basics, LX may be sufficient.


• Ownership costs: Insurance, maintenance, and potential resale value can shift with added features. Some EX features may raise maintenance or repair costs over time, while others can improve resale value depending on market demand.


• Availability by model/year: Not every feature is present on every EX/LX pairing across all Honda models. Always compare the exact equipment lists for the model and year you’re shopping.

Bottom line: EX tends to be worth it if the extra features align with your priorities and you plan to keep the car for several years; otherwise, LX can be a smart, budget-conscious choice that covers the essentials.

Model-Specific Notes

Differences between LX and EX can vary by model and year. Here are representative examples from popular Honda lineups to illustrate how the upgrade tends to play out.

Civic

In recent Civic generations, the EX typically adds a turbocharged engine variant, a larger display and upgraded infotainment options, and exterior/comfort features such as a sunroof and enhanced safety tech compared with LX. Exact inclusions depend on the model year, so review the current window sticker for precise equipment.

CR-V

For the CR-V, EX generally brings features like a power sunroof, upgraded infotainment, and expanded safety packages over LX. Availability and specifics can shift with each redesign or refresh, so check the latest specs for the year you’re considering.

HR-V

On the HR-V, EX usually includes more comforts and tech than LX, such as a more robust infotainment setup, a sunroof in some years, and additional convenience features. As with other models, verify exact offerings on the trim for your target year.

What to Do Before You Buy

To make sure you’re choosing the right trim, follow these practical steps and comparisons.

1. Review the exact window stickers (MSRP and standard equipment) for LX and EX on the model/year you’re considering.


2. Test-drive both trims to directly evaluate differences in acceleration, ride comfort, and overall feel.


3. Check current incentives, financing options, and any dealer-added packages that could affect total ownership cost.


4. Consider long-term costs and benefits, including maintenance, insurance, and resale value for each trim.

Focusing on the features you actually use will help you decide whether the EX’s extras justify the higher price or if the LX already meets your needs.

Summary

The Honda EX generally offers more features and tech than the LX, including convenience items, upgraded infotainment, and additional safety options. Whether EX is “better” for you depends on your budget, how you plan to use the car, and how important the extra equipment is to you. Always compare the exact trim details for the specific model and year you’re buying, and test-drive both trims to make the most informed choice.

What does the ex mean on a Honda?

On a Honda, "EX" signifies a trim level that offers more features and a higher level of equipment than the base model, such as the LX. This mid-range trim typically adds enhanced comfort and technology, including features like a sunroof, heated seats, alloy wheels, and upgraded safety systems. 
Common EX trim features

• Sunroof: Often included as standard, providing an open-air experience. 
• Heated seats: Heated front seats are a common upgrade in the EX trim. 
• Enhanced technology: This can include a larger touchscreen display, smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and premium audio features. 
• Improved safety: Look for advanced safety systems such as a blind spot information system and cross-traffic alerts. 
• Comfort and convenience: Features like a multi-angle rearview camera, a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system are often part of the EX package. 
• Upgraded wheels: EX models typically come with larger alloy wheels compared to the steel wheels with covers on the base trim. 

How it compares to other trims

• Vs. LX: The LX is the entry-level trim, while the EX is a step up with more features and a higher price. 
• Vs. EX-L: The "L" in EX-L typically indicates luxury, and this trim adds more premium features like leather-trimmed seats, a power passenger seat, and driver's seat memory. 
• Vs. Touring/Elite: These are higher, more feature-rich trims that come with the most advanced technology and premium amenities. 

What is the difference between an ex and an lx?

LX vs. EX is a comparison between trim levels of Honda vehicles, where LX is the base model and EX is a higher trim with more features. The EX typically adds comfort and technology upgrades like a power moonroof, heated seats, blind-spot monitoring, and a larger infotainment screen, while the LX includes standard features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a rearview camera.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the differences between Honda Civic LX and EX trims: 49sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Jan 19, 2024
Key differences

• Price: LX is the more affordable base model, while the EX costs more due to its additional features. 
• Comfort and convenience: The EX usually includes upgrades like heated front seats, a power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver's seat, which are not on the LX. 
• Technology: While both trims share some technology, the EX typically adds more premium features. These can include a larger touchscreen, wireless phone charging, a higher-wattage sound system with more speakers, and HD Radio. 
• Safety: The EX often includes advanced safety features that are not standard on the LX, such as a blind-spot monitoring system and cross-traffic monitor. 
• Wheels: The wheels often differ, with the EX having alloy wheels and the LX having steel wheels with a hubcap. 

This video compares the features of Honda Accord LX and EX trims: 58sCrazy Honda ChrisYouTube · Jul 3, 2023

Does the Honda LX and EX have the same engine?

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Is ex or lx better for Honda?

The "better" trim depends on your priorities: the LX is a more affordable option with essential features, while the EX is better if you want more technology, comfort, and performance upgrades for a higher price. The EX typically adds features like a sunroof, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, larger touchscreen with smartphone integration, and more powerful engines in some models.
 
Choose the LX if:

• Budget is a primary concern: The LX has a lower starting price. 
• You need the basics: It provides essential tech and safety features like Honda Sensing. 
• You prioritize fuel efficiency: It often has similar or slightly better fuel economy than the EX on some models. 

Choose the EX if:

• You want more comfort and convenience: It includes features like heated front seats, a one-touch power moonroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control. 
• You prioritize technology: The EX typically comes with a larger touchscreen and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. 
• You want enhanced performance: In some models, the EX engine offers more horsepower and torque. 
• You want extra safety features: The EX often adds a blind spot information system and cross-traffic alert.