What Honda CRV models have leather seats?
Leather seats are available on the EX-L and Touring trims of the Honda CR-V, while base LX and mid-level EX typically come with cloth upholstery. Some years or packages may offer leatherette or partial leather options.
This article explains which trims in the current Honda CR-V lineup typically include leather seating, and notes year-to-year variations you should verify with the dealer or the official Honda brochure for the exact model year.
Leather seating by trim
The following overview reflects the most common configuration for recent CR-V model years. Materials can vary by year and region, so always confirm for the specific car you’re considering.
Trims and leather availability in the current lineup:
- LX — Cloth seats; leather not standard. Some markets or packages may offer leatherette alternatives, but genuine leather is not typical on this trim.
- EX — Cloth seats (no leather as standard); leatherette or partial-leather options may appear in certain packages depending on year/market.
- EX-L — Leather-trim seats (standard); this trim commonly includes heated front seats and other comfort features.
- Touring — Leather-trim seats (standard); typically the most feature-rich interior with premium materials.
Conclusion for the list: If you want genuine leather seating, target the EX-L or Touring trims; LX and EX generally rely on cloth (with possible leatherette options in some years). Always check the exact model year’s configuration to confirm.
Considerations when choosing leather
Leather seats can improve cabin feel and resale value but may require more maintenance. Leatherette is easier to clean and can be a practical alternative if you prefer a similar look without the upkeep. In CR-V trims that offer leather, heated front seats are commonly paired with the leather interior, and some models may include ventilation in higher-end versions.
Summary
In the current Honda CR-V lineup, leather seating is standard on the EX-L and Touring trims, while LX and EX are typically cloth-equipped (with leatherette options in some years). Always verify the specific model year and package contents with a dealer or the official Honda specifications to ensure you have the interior you want.
Which Honda model has leather seats?
Several Honda models have leather seats, including the Accord EX-L Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid; the CR-V EX-L and Sport Touring Hybrid; the Civic Sport Touring Hybrid (sedan and hatchback); and the Ridgeline on certain trims. The availability of leather seats typically depends on the specific trim level of the vehicle.
- Honda Accord: The 2025 EX-L Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid trims come with leather-trimmed seats.
- Honda CR-V: The CR-V EX-L and Sport Touring Hybrid are equipped with leather-trimmed seats.
- Honda Civic: The Sport Touring Hybrid trim, available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, comes with leather-trimmed seats.
- Honda Ridgeline: The RTL trim and higher have leather-trimmed seating available.
Which Honda CR-V models have leather seats?
CR-V EX-L: Designed To Turn Heads
The front seats are also trimmed in leather to delight the eye at every turn. In addition to looking great, the 2021 Honda CR-V EX-L is comfortable, thanks to a front passenger's seat with 4-way power adjustment.
What's the difference between ex and lx on a Honda CR-V?
The main differences between the Honda CR-V LX and EX trims are the EX's added premium and convenience features, such as a one-touch power moonroof, heated front seats, a Blind Spot Information System, and 18-inch alloy wheels. While the LX is a value-focused trim with standard features like a 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration and Honda Sensing, the EX builds on this by offering more comfort and safety upgrades.
You can watch this video to see a side-by-side comparison of the 2024 Honda CR-V LX and EX models: 59sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Jan 19, 2024
Honda CR-V LX
- Key Features: 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control, cloth seats, and Honda Sensing suite.
- Wheels: 17-inch wheels with covers.
- Exterior: Standard LED headlights and taillights.
- Interior: Lacks some of the comfort and convenience features of the EX.
Honda CR-V EX
- Key Features: Includes all LX features plus:
- One-touch power moonroof.
- Heated front seats.
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI).
- Remote engine start.
- Dual rear USB ports.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control (some sources list this as an upgrade).
- Wheels: Upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels.
- Exterior: Heated power side mirrors.
- Interior: Adds more premium and convenient upgrades.
This video demonstrates the features of the 2026 Honda CR-V LX trim: 59sWalser HondaYouTube · Sep 5, 2025
What are the weaknesses of the Honda CR-V?
Key drawbacks of the Honda CR-V include its high purchase price compared to rivals, a less spacious rear seat and cargo area than some competitors, and a lack of a seven-seat option. Other disadvantages mentioned are increased road noise, a basic cabin in lower trims, and potentially underpowered performance for the non-hybrid engine. Older model years have specific issues, such as engine, transmission, and airbag problems.
Cost and value
- High price: The CR-V can be expensive, especially when compared to some competitors in the segment.
- Limited value in lower trims: The base trim level may lack some key safety features or have a more basic interior compared to higher trims or some rivals.
This video discusses the pricing and value of the Honda CR-V, including its features compared to competitors: 58sMotorNationYouTube · Apr 16, 2025
Space and utility
- Limited rear and cargo space: It is not as roomy in the back seat or the cargo area as some rivals.
- No seven-seat option: The CR-V is only available as a five-seater, which may be a dealbreaker for some families.
- No spare tire: The modern CR-V often lacks a spare tire and the necessary storage space under the floor for one.
Performance and driving experience
- Underpowered engine: Some reviewers find the non-hybrid engine to be underpowered, particularly for highway driving and when the vehicle is fully loaded.
- Increased road noise: The CR-V can have higher levels of road noise compared to some rivals.
This video reviews the performance and driving experience of the Honda CR-V, including engine power and handling: 54sDownshiftYouTube · Feb 8, 2024
Technology and comfort
- Dated infotainment: The user interface can look a bit dated compared to competitors.
- Lack of features: Some trims lack certain features, such as a visible engine temperature gauge or ambient interior lighting.
Reliability concerns (especially for older models)
- Older model years: Certain older CR-V models (like 1997–1999, 2002–2003, 2007–2009, and 2017–2019) are more frequently cited for problems like engine failures, transmission issues, and airbag malfunctions.
- Recent models: Some recent models (2018-2022) have faced lawsuits regarding potential engine defects.
