Home FAQ

What is the difference between CR, V, LX, and EX?

In short: CR and V are not separate trim levels. The CR-V is Honda’s model name, while LX and EX are trims that indicate different equipment levels. LX is typically the base or mid-level trim, and EX adds more convenience, tech, and safety features. Exact contents can vary by model year and region.

To expand on that, the CR-V lineup is normally offered in several trims beyond LX and EX, such as EX-L and Touring, with higher trims adding premium features. The specific features for each year and market can shift, so it’s best to consult the official spec sheet for your exact model year when comparing trims.

CR-V naming and what the letters mean

There is no separate “CR” or “V” trim designation you would select at a dealership. The model name is CR-V, and your choice of trim determines the equipment list. In practice, buyers typically choose between LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring, with LX serving as the entry or mid-level option and EX offering more amenities.

Below are common differences you’ll typically see between LX and EX on CR-Vs (and similar Honda models).

Infotainment and display: LX usually has a smaller screen and fewer tech features; EX adds a larger touchscreen and smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto).

Comfort and convenience: EX commonly includes a sunroof (one-touch power moonroof) and sometimes additional convenience features like enhanced entry options or smarter climate controls; LX offers fewer of these extras.

Safety and driver assistance: EX typically includes more standard or available safety features than LX, depending on the year and trim package.

Wheels and exterior styling: EX often comes with larger wheels and styling cues that differentiate it from LX.

Seating and materials: EX may use upgraded materials or cloth, while higher trims such as EX-L introduce leather seating; LX generally has standard fabric upholstery.

The exact feature set can vary by generation and market, so always check the spec sheet for your specific model year.

How to verify your trim today

Use these methods to confirm which trim your CR-V has, especially when you’re shopping used cars or reviewing a dealer’s listing.

Window sticker (Monroney label): Look for the trim designation and standard/options list on the sticker.

VIN-based build sheet or dealer records: A dealer can pull the exact trim and installed options from the vehicle’s VIN.

Interior features and equipment: Compare features like the touchscreen size, sunroof, leather seating, or advanced safety tech to typical LX/EX distinctions.

Official sources: Check Honda’s website or trusted automotive data resources (e.g., dealer portals, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book) using the VIN for precise trim details.

Note that terminology and feature names can differ by year and region, so cross-checking multiple sources is a good practice.

Beyond LX and EX: where EX-L and Touring fit

When you move up from EX, other common trims include EX-L and Touring, which add more premium features. While LX focuses on essentials and EX adds convenience and tech, EX-L typically includes leather seating and additional cabin upgrades, and Touring tends to offer the most comprehensive equipment package, including advanced navigation, top-tier audio, and premium exterior bits. This pattern—LX < EX < EX-L < Touring—occurs with many Honda trims, though exact contents vary by model year.

In other brands, you may see similar letters (like LX, EX, or similar designations) used for different feature mixings, but the exact equipment can differ. Always confirm the specifics for the exact model year you’re considering.

Summary

The core idea is straightforward: CR-V’s CR and V form the model name, not stand-alone trim levels. LX and EX denote two common trim levels, with LX usually representing the base/mid level and EX adding more tech, convenience, and safety features. For higher trims, EX-L and Touring bring premium upgrades. Always verify the exact features for your year and market using the vehicle’s window sticker, VIN build sheet, or official Honda specifications.

Bottom line: if you’re comparing, focus on the feature list tied to LX versus EX for your specific year, and consult official sources to confirm any year-to-year changes.

What is the difference between ex and 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

Is the Honda EX better than the LX?

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.

What is the difference between the CRV EX and LX?

The Honda CR-V EX adds more features and comfort than the base LX trim, with key upgrades including a power moonroof, heated front seats, a power driver's seat, and the Blind Spot Information System. Both trims offer the same turbocharged 1.5L engine, but the LX has smaller wheels (17-inch), while the EX has larger alloy wheels (18-inch).
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the exterior and features of the CR-V LX and EX: 53sCrazy Honda ChrisYouTube · Jul 3, 2025

Feature	LX	EX
Wheels	17-inch steel wheels with covers	18-inch alloy wheels
Comfort	Standard cloth seats, dual-zone automatic climate control	Heated front seats, 12-way power adjustable driver's seat
Exterior	Body-colored power side mirrors, standard LED headlights and taillights	Heated power side mirrors, power moonroof, fog lights
Safety	Standard Honda Sensing® suite	Adds Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross-Traffic Monitor
Technology	9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, push-button start	Adds dual-zone automatic climate control, Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock
Audio	6 speakers	6 speakers
Connectivity	Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility	Includes HondaLink and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio

Which CRV to stay away from?

You should be wary of the Honda CR-V models from 2007–2009 and 2017–2019, as these years are frequently cited for significant issues like HVAC failures, engine problems, and electrical glitches. Other models to approach with caution include 2011 (excessive oil consumption) and 2014-2015 (engine vibrations).

Years with more reported issues

2007–2009: This generation experienced issues with HVAC systems, paint, and airbag malfunctions.
2011: Known for excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
2014–2015: Prone to engine vibrations, especially at idle. The 2015 model also had issues with the new CVT transmission.
2017–2019: The first years of the fifth generation had a significant problem with gasoline diluting the engine oil, which can lead to serious engine damage. Some models also reported electrical problems.

Important considerations

Engine oil dilution: This was a major issue for the 2017 and 2018 models with the 1.5L turbo engine, as gas could mix with the oil, reducing its lubricating properties.
HVAC failures: Common in the 2007 model, with early and expensive AC compressor failures being frequently reported.
Vibrations: Specifically, the 2014 and 2015 models had noticeable engine vibrations, particularly at low speeds or idle.
Excessive oil consumption: The 2011 model is notorious for this, which can cause major engine problems if ignored.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.