What is faster Honda Civic LX or EX?
Across Honda’s current Civic lineup, the EX is generally faster than the LX thanks to a turbocharged engine and higher horsepower. Exact times vary by model year and transmission, but the EX typically accelerates more quickly.
This article compares the LX and EX in key areas: engine choice, horsepower and torque, acceleration figures, and real-world performance across recent generations, with notes on year-to-year differences.
Engine and Powertrains
Overview of the engines powering the LX and EX in the latest generation and how those differences translate to speed.
Current-generation engines
- Honda Civic LX: 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 engine, about 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque.
- Honda Civic EX: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, about 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: Most LX and EX trims use a CVT; manual is not offered on most LX/EX configurations, though there are exceptions in some markets/years.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive on both trims; the power advantage of the EX translates to faster acceleration rather than higher top speed due to electronic tuning.
Both trims share the same overall chassis and most safety and efficiency features, but the turbocharged engine and higher torque of the EX typically yield quicker off-the-line acceleration and better mid-range punch.
Performance figures
Here are typical published figures and commonly observed ranges for acceleration and top speed across recent Civics.
0-60 mph and top speed benchmarks
- 0-60 mph: LX generally around 8.0–9.0 seconds, depending on year and measurement method; EX generally around 7.0–7.6 seconds in similar testing.
- Top speed: Most trims are electronically limited around 130–140 mph, with EX and LX typically within a similar range; the real-world difference is usually modest beyond highway speeds.
- Real-world perception: The turbocharged EX tends to feel quicker in everyday driving, especially during mid-range overtakes and highway merges.
Note that these times vary by model year, transmission tuning, tires, and driving conditions. Confirming numbers for a specific year is best done with manufacturer data or independent tests.
Model-year snapshots
Looking at recent generations helps illustrate how the LX and EX compare in practice.
Recent generations (10th and 11th)
- 10th generation (2016–2021): LX with 2.0L engine at about 158 hp; EX with 1.5L turbo at about 174–180 hp and 162 lb-ft torque; both commonly CVT.
- 11th generation (2022–present): LX continues with 2.0L at about 158 hp; EX uses 1.5L turbo at about 180 hp and 177 lb-ft torque; EX remains faster in acceleration tests.
Conclusion: In the most recent Civics, the EX is the faster choice due to the turbo engine, with performance gaps narrowing at highway speeds where both trims perform similarly.
Bottom line
For most buyers focusing on speed, the Honda Civic EX is the faster option compared with the LX in today's lineup. If maximum performance is the goal, there are even quicker options in the form of the Civic Si or Type R, which sit above both LX and EX.
Summary
The EX is typically faster than the LX across modern Honda Civics due to its turbocharged 1.5-liter engine and higher horsepower/torque. Exact 0-60 times and top speeds vary by year, transmission tuning, tires, and overall vehicle condition. The LX remains a solid, efficient choice with a simpler engine, while the EX offers stronger performance without sacrificing everyday practicality.
Which Honda Civic is better, EX or LX?
The main differences between the Honda Civic LX and EX are the EX's enhanced comfort and convenience features, such as a one-touch power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats. The EX also comes with a more powerful turbocharged engine and upgraded wheels (17-inch alloy vs. 16-inch steel covers on the LX).
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the 2020 Honda Civic LX and EX models: 1mCoach ChadYouTube · Mar 30, 2016
| Feature | Honda Civic LX | Honda Civic EX |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cylinder (158 hp) | 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (180 hp) |
| Wheels | 16-inch steel with full covers | 17-inch gloss black alloy |
| Moonroof | No | Yes, one-touch power moonroof |
| Climate Control | Standard | Yes, dual-zone automatic climate control |
| Heated Front Seats | No (as of 2024 model) | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | No | Yes, the Honda LaneWatch™ system |
| Steering Wheel | Standard | Yes, leather-wrapped |
| Audio System | Standard | Yes, 8-speaker audio system |
| Remote Start | No | Yes |
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How fast does a Honda Civic LX go?
The top speed for a Honda Civic LX is typically around 137 mph, though this can vary by model year and specific configuration. For example, the 2021 model is listed with a 137 mph top speed, while some sources suggest a 125 mph top speed for an older 2015 LX model, which was limited electronically.
You can watch this video to see a POV test drive of a 2015 Honda Civic LX: 1mDM Car ReviewsYouTube · Nov 22, 2024
- 2021 Honda Civic LX: Top speed of 137 mph, with a 2.0L engine and a 0-60 mph time of about 8.0 seconds.
- 2015 Honda Civic LX: Top speed was around 125 mph.
- Older models: Some older models were electronically limited to around 120-125 mph, according to Reddit users.
- Modern models: Newer models like the 2025 LX have a 2.0L engine and an approximate 124 mph top speed, which is lower than older models.
This video shows a POV test drive of a 2001 Honda Civic LX: 1mDM Car ReviewsYouTube · Nov 28, 2023
Which Civic trim is the fastest?
The fastest Honda Civic trim is the Type R, which features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 315 horsepower. It achieves 0-60 mph in around 4.9-5.0 seconds and is exclusively available with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Type R is a track-focused performance model with numerous upgrades, including a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and aerodynamic enhancements.
This video compares the performance of the Honda Civic Type R and the Civic Si: 58sBros FOURR SpeedYouTube · Jan 1, 2025
Key performance highlights of the Type R
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 315 hp
- Torque: 310 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- 0-60 mph: ~4.9-5.0 seconds
- Top Speed: 169 mph
- Features: Track-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, adaptive exhaust, and summer performance tires
Which one is better, ex or lx?
Neither "lx" nor "ex" is inherently better, as it depends on your priorities. The LX is the better choice if you prioritize a lower starting price and a more budget-friendly option, as it includes essential features like Honda Sensing and standard safety technology. The EX is better if you are willing to pay more for enhanced comfort, technology, and convenience features such as a moonroof, heated seats, larger touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a more premium sound system.
Choose LX if:
- Budget is the main concern: The LX has a lower starting price than the EX.
- Basic features are sufficient: You still get essential features like a rearview camera and standard safety technology.
Choose EX if:
- Comfort is a priority: The EX includes premium features like heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power moonroof.
- Technology and connectivity are important: You get a larger touchscreen with smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Convenience matters: Features like a blind spot information system, heated side mirrors, and a smart entry system are included in the EX trim.
- A more premium feel is desired: The EX adds details like alloy wheels, a better audio system, and a more powerful engine in some models, making it a more comfortable and feature-rich option.
