What is the difference between Honda CRV LX and EX?

The Honda CR-V is a popular compact SUV that comes in various trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities. Two of the most common trims are the LX and EX. While they share the same core platform, there are several key differences between the Honda CR-V LX and EX that buyers should consider when making their purchase decision.

Engine and Performance

The Honda CR-V LX is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 184 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and comes standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option.

The Honda CR-V EX, on the other hand, also features the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but with a slight power increase to 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Like the LX, the EX comes standard with front-wheel drive and has all-wheel drive as an available option.

Interior and Technology Features

The Honda CR-V LX comes with a basic set of interior and technology features, including a 5-inch infotainment display, a four-speaker audio system, and manual climate control.

The Honda CR-V EX, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive set of features, including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power driver's seat. The EX also includes additional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Exterior Styling and Wheels

The Honda CR-V LX features 17-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, while the EX upgrades to 17-inch alloy wheels. The EX also includes additional exterior styling cues, such as a power moonroof and LED daytime running lights.

Pricing and Value

The Honda CR-V LX is the base model and typically has a lower starting price than the EX. However, the EX offers a more comprehensive set of features and technology, which may justify the higher price tag for some buyers.

In summary, the key differences between the Honda CR-V LX and EX are the engine power, interior and technology features, exterior styling, and pricing. Buyers should carefully consider their needs and budget to determine which trim level best suits their requirements.

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. 

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's the difference between a LX and an EX?

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

What is the difference between Honda CR-V LX and EX?

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