What is the difference between Honda Element EX and LX?
The EX trim generally adds more equipment and conveniences over the LX, while the LX remains the baseline model. Exact features vary by year and market, so you should check the specific window sticker for the model you’re considering. The Honda Element was produced from 2003 to 2011, so differences refer to those model years.
When comparing a Honda Element, you’ll typically see EX offering upgrades such as enhanced exterior styling, more interior comfort features, and added convenience technologies; however, the availability of features depends on the model year and region, so verify the exact equipment list for the specific vehicle you’re considering.
Exterior features
Exterior styling and wheel options are among the most visible differences between LX and EX. The two trims can differ in wheel design, lighting, and roof accessories depending on year.
- Wheels and tires: EX commonly features 16-inch alloy wheels, while LX often uses 15-inch wheels or steel wheels depending on the year.
- Lighting: EX frequently includes fog lights that are not standard on LX in many years.
- Sunroof: EX often includes a sunroof, whereas LX rarely had one in many model years.
- Roof accessories: EX more commonly offers roof rails or related gear-carrying options; LX may have fewer add-ons depending on year.
In practice, EX tends to have a more premium exterior package with styling and accessory options that are less common on LX, though exact content varies by year.
Interior features
Interior differences focus on comfort, convenience, and perceived refinement. The EX usually offers more convenience-oriented touches inside the cabin.
- Power accessories: EX typically includes power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors; LX often relies on manual controls in earlier years.
- Cruise control: EX commonly comes with cruise control, while LX may lack it or offer it as an optional feature on some years.
- Seating and materials: EX generally uses upgraded materials or cloth options and may have more comfortable seating configurations.
- Audio/controls: EX often houses an upgraded audio system or steering-wheel-mounted controls when available; LX has the baseline setup.
Overall, the EX interior emphasizes added convenience and comfort, while the LX keeps costs down with simpler appointments.
Technology and convenience
Technology and convenience features vary by year, but EX usually adds more gear than LX in this area.
- Remote entry: EX typically includes remote keyless entry; LX may offer it as an option or omit it in earlier years.
- Climate control: EX often features automatic climate control; LX tends to have manual controls in several years.
- Audio/navigation tech: EX is more likely to have a higher-grade stereo and additional inputs; GPS navigation was offered in some EX packages in later years, while LX had the base radio.
- Other conveniences: EX may include additional niceties (such as a sunroof or upgraded center stack) that were not standard on LX.
In short, EX focuses on easier daily use and a higher level of comfort and tech, while LX emphasizes affordability with more basic features.
Performance and drivetrain options
Performance differences between LX and EX are generally less pronounced than feature differences, as the core engine and drivetrain options followed year-by-year packaging rather than trim alone.
- Engine: The Element used the same family of 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines across LX and EX in most years, with horsepower and torque figures close to each other depending on year and tuning.
- Transmission: Both trims offered similar transmissions (manual and automatic) depending on the year; availability varied by year and market.
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD) was available on several model years as an option; EX more commonly appears with AWD in some packages, but availability depended on year.
Overall, the mechanical differences between LX and EX are minor relative to the feature differences, and AWD/engine choices hinge on the model year and chosen package rather than strictly the trim name.
Safety and reliability considerations
Safety features and reliability generally align across LX and EX, with year-specific updates influencing what’s available rather than one trim being inherently safer.
- Baseline safety: Both trims offered essential protections such as airbags and ABS; later years added or expanded features like side-curtain airbags and stability enhancements.
- Advanced safety: Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and related stability features appeared in later model years, sometimes bundled with higher trims or specific packages rather than being exclusive to EX.
- Reliability notes: The Element is known for a versatile interior and solid reliability for its class; maintenance costs depend more on the individual vehicle’s condition and service history than strictly on LX vs EX.
In general, safety and reliability improvements over the years apply to both trims; always review the exact equipment list and service history for a given vehicle.
Summary
The Honda Element EX typically offers more equipment and conveniences than the LX, with enhancements in exterior styling, interior comfort, and technology. The LX serves as the more affordable baseline. Because features change by year and market, verify the exact specifications on the specific car you’re considering by checking the window sticker or VIN-based build sheet.
