Whats the difference between ex and LX on a Honda CR-V?
The EX trim sits above the LX in the Honda CR-V lineup, delivering more features and technology. In recent generations, the two trims share the same basic engine and drivetrain, so the upgrade is mainly about equipment and convenience rather than power.
Model-year variations exist, and Honda occasionally updates standard equipment across trims. This article outlines typical differences you’ll see in current and recent CR-Vs and notes where year-to-year changes may apply.
What EX adds over LX
Overview of the main categories of upgrades: comfort, convenience, technology, and safety.
Comfort and convenience features
The EX generally adds interior comforts that the LX lacks, enhancing daily driving experience.
- Sunroof or panoramic sunroof for a more open cabin feel.
- Heated front seats on most EX configurations.
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat with more adjustment options.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control for individualized comfort.
- Remote start to pre-condition the cabin before you enter.
- Upgraded alloy wheels (commonly 18 inches) versus smaller wheels on LX.
- Fog lights for improved visibility in inclement weather.
In short, EX adds several comfort and convenience upgrades that lift the feel of daily driving compared with LX.
Technology and safety
The EX typically expands connectivity and safety features beyond the LX, with variations by year:
- Infotainment with a larger touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility; some years offer wireless CarPlay on EX.
- Standard Honda Sensing driver-assist suite (includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation).
- Potential upgrades to display interfaces and additional USB ports or charging options in some years.
When it comes to tech and safety, EX commonly offers more robust options than LX, but the exact package can shift by model year and market.
Powertrain, drivetrain, and other specs that are shared
For modern CR-Vs, LX and EX generally share the same core mechanicals, with no increase in horsepower or different drivetrain arising from trim level alone.
- Engine: turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) powering both trims.
- Drivetrain: front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available as an option on both LX and EX (availability can vary by year and package).
- Efficiency: fuel economy and driving characteristics are similar between LX and EX when equipped with the same drivetrain.
- Pricing and option packages: EX commands a higher starting price due to the added equipment; exact options can vary by year.
In short, the under-the-hood mechanics of LX and EX align closely in the current generation; buyers choose EX for more features rather than more power or different performance.
Summary
The EX trim is the mid-level upgrade over LX for the Honda CR-V, delivering more comfort, connectivity, and safety features while sharing the same turbocharged 1.5-liter engine and CVT in the current generation. Always verify the exact equipment for the model year you’re considering, as features can shift with redesigns or regional packages.
