What is the most basic Honda CR-V model?

The most basic Honda CR-V model is the CR-V LX. It serves as the entry-level trim in the U.S. lineup, delivering the essential combination of efficiency, safety, and practicality, with higher trims adding more features and luxury. For buyers who want the lowest sticker price while still getting modern safety tech, LX is the benchmark to compare against.

In the current lineup, the CR-V is offered in several trims—LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring (with some markets also featuring TrailSport or special editions). This article explains what the LX includes and how it differs from the pricier trims.

The base trim: CR-V LX

The LX is the starting point for buyers who want the core CR-V experience without extra frills. It typically pairs Honda's efficient powertrain with a practical interior and a baseline set of safety and connectivity features that Honda has been standardizing across models in recent years.

Powertrain and efficiency

Most recent CR-V LX models use a turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission, delivering solid performance for daily driving and competitive fuel economy.

Safety and tech

Across recent years, the LX has included Honda Sensing, the suite of active safety features, along with modern connectivity such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

LX vs higher trims: what changes?

The LX sits below the EX, EX-L, and Touring trims. The higher trims add more comfort, convenience, and technology features, often at a higher price point.

• EX adds more comfort and tech features, including a larger infotainment display and additional convenience items.


• EX-L adds leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for a more premium interior.


• Touring (top trim) adds premium audio, navigation, and extra luxury features; it is typically the best-equipped option.

In short, the LX offers the essentials at the lowest price in the CR-V lineup, while EX, EX-L, and Touring provide progressively more luxury, technology, and comfort for those who want more from their compact SUV.

What to consider when buying

When evaluating a CR-V, consider your budget, desired features, and whether you value technology, interior comfort, or driving convenience. If you want the lowest upfront cost with modern safety tech, the LX is a solid starting point; if you want more features and comfort, upgrading to EX, EX-L, or Touring makes sense.

Summary

The CR-V LX is the most basic model in Honda's CR-V lineup. It delivers the essential powertrain, safety tech, and connectivity, serving as a practical entry point. Upgrading to EX, EX-L, or Touring adds notable improvements in interior quality, tech, and comfort for those who want more from their compact SUV.

Is the ex or lx CR-V better?

Another thing Gardner drivers love about the 2022 Honda CR-V is the generous storage and interior dimensions with up to 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Still, the LX has a bit more cabin room with 105.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, while the CR-V EX has 102.9 cubic feet of passenger room.

What does SE mean on a Honda CR-V?

The 2016 Honda CR-V SE (Special Edition) trim is new for this year, so College Place and Kennewick drivers will have a new option to add to a CR-V lineup that also includes LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring trim levels.

What is the basic Honda CR-V model?

The Honda CR-V base model is the LX trim, which is the most affordable option and includes standard features like a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, a 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Key standard features for the 2026 LX include cloth upholstery, 17-inch steel wheels, a 7-inch driver display, LED headlights and taillights, and a rearview camera.
 
You can watch this video for a detailed review of the 2026 Honda CR-V LX model's exterior and interior features: 1mAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Oct 1, 2025
Standard features of the LX trim
This video provides a detailed look at the engine, performance, and fuel efficiency of the 2025 Honda CR-V LX: 1mHerb Chambers Honda of SeekonkYouTube · Mar 14, 2025

• Engine: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
• Drivetrain: Standard front-wheel drive (all-wheel drive is an available upgrade).
• Wheels: 17-inch steel wheels with covers.
• Interior: Cloth upholstery and manual front seats.
• Infotainment: 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch partially digital driver display, and a four-speaker audio system.
• Technology: Push-button start and remote keyless entry.
• Safety: A standard suite of Honda Sensing safety and driver-assist features, including a collision mitigation braking system, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a rear-seat alert. 

Available upgrades and optional features 

• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): An optional upgrade from the standard front-wheel drive for a higher cost. 
• Wheels: Other wheel designs, such as 18-inch options, can be purchased for an additional price. 
• Other trim levels: For more upscale features like a moonroof, heated seats, and blind spot monitoring, you would need to upgrade to the next trim level, such as the EX, as seen in this AutoNation article. 

You can watch this video to learn about the differences between the 2026 Honda CR-V LX and EX trims: 1mMotormouthYouTube · Aug 18, 2025

Which CR-V 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.