What is the difference between a Honda Fit EX and EX-L?
The EX-L is the upmarket version of the Honda Fit, typically adding leather seating and interior refinements on top of the EX. Both trims share the same engine and most mechanical basics, but the EX-L emphasizes a more premium feel inside, while the EX focuses on value with fewer premium touches. Exact features can vary by model year and market, so always check the window sticker for specifics.
The Honda Fit has been offered in several trims over its US-era life. The EX sits above the base LX and adds more technology and convenience, while the EX-L pushes toward a premium interior. This article outlines the typical differences buyers encounter when comparing EX and EX-L models, and notes where year-to-year variation matters.
Core differences at a glance
Here is a snapshot of the main distinctions you can expect when comparing typical US-spec Honda Fit EX and EX-L models. Keep in mind that exact equipment can vary by year and market.
- Powertrain and performance: Both EX and EX-L generally use the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and CVT, with similar driving dynamics and fuel economy.
- Exterior styling and wheels: The two trims share the same overall body, but wheel designs and finishes can differ by year or market; there is no fundamental difference in size or shape.
- Interior materials and seating: EX-L typically features leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel; EX uses cloth upholstery and a standard steering wheel.
- Comfort and convenience: EX-L may include additional comfort items such as a power-adjustable driver’s seat and, in some years, heated front seats or other premium touches beyond the EX; availability varies by year.
- Infotainment and technology: Both trims offer upgraded infotainment relative to base LX; the presence of features like CarPlay/Android Auto depends on the model year, and EX-L does not universally surpass EX in tech alone—the key difference is interior upgrade.
In short, if you value interior quality and premium touches, EX-L is the stronger pick; if you want a well-equipped, more affordable option, EX provides strong value with most essential comforts.
Interior and Comfort
Seating and materials
Before looking at a list of what's inside, note that the major delta is upholstery and trim level. The EX-L typically replaces cloth seats with leather-trimmed seating and adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, which alters both feel and perceived quality inside the cabin.
- EX: cloth upholstery with a standard steering wheel.
- EX-L: leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are common enhancements.
- Optional or year-specific items: some EX-L configurations may include a power-adjustable driver’s seat or heated front seats depending on the model year.
These interior upgrades contribute to a noticeably more premium feel in EX-L, while EX emphasizes value with its cloth interior and fewer premium touches.
Technology and Safety
Infotainment and driver aids
The tech package varies by year, but the EX-L generally does not rely on more hardware to outpace the EX; rather, it pairs upgraded interior trim with similar or equal infotainment capabilities. Buyers should verify the exact equipment on a given car’s window sticker because availability of features like smartphone integration and safety suites can shift between model years.
- Infotainment: Both trims typically offer a touchscreen interface with smartphone integration; CarPlay/Android Auto availability depends on the year and trim packaging.
- Safety features: Honda Sensing or similar driver-assistance features may be included on EX-L in some years, while others require a higher trim or optional packages; availability is year-dependent.
- Other tech: USB ports, climate control, and audio systems can vary slightly by year, but the core functionality remains comparable.
For tech and safety, the EX and EX-L are often close in capability, with EX-L’s advantage primarily in interior refinement rather than a guaranteed leap in gadgetry. Always confirm the exact features for the model year you’re considering.
Pricing and Value
Price and value considerations are a practical lens for comparing EX and EX-L. The EX-L is typically positioned as the more expensive option due to its premium interior upgrades, while the EX aims to deliver strong features at a lower cost. Year-to-year pricing can swing based on market, options, and whether the car is new or used.
- Price premium: EX-L generally carries a higher price tag than EX because of leather seating and related interior upgrades.
- Resale value: Leather and premium interior features in EX-L can help with resale, depending on demand and condition.
- Buying advice: If you prioritize interior quality and comfort, pay the extra for EX-L; if you are budget-conscious and still want modern features, EX offers solid value with nearly identical core mechanics.
As with any used or new car purchase, compare trims on the specific year you’re interested in, and review the exact contents on the window sticker or build sheet.
Summary
In the Honda Fit lineup, EX-L represents the more premium evolution of EX, centering on leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and related interior refinements, while the EX focuses on value with cloth upholstery and fewer premium touches. Mechanical underpinnings—engine, transmission, and most safety tech—are largely shared, with year-to-year variability in features. For buyers, the choice typically comes down to how much interior luxury matters versus how much they want to save upfront, all while verifying the exact equipment for the model year in question.
