Honda Civic EX vs. LX: Which Trim Is Better?

For most buyers, the Honda Civic EX is the better pick thanks to its stronger engine, slightly better fuel economy in many recent model years, and a meaningful bump in comfort and safety tech; the LX is the better choice if you want the lowest price and a simpler feature set. The right answer depends on your priorities, budget, and which model year/body style you’re considering.

Contents

What the Question Really Asks
Key Differences at a Glance
Performance and Efficiency
Features and Technology
Safety and Driver Assistance
Pricing and Value
Model-Year and Body-Style Nuances
Who Should Choose Which?
Bottom Line
Summary

What the Question Really Asks

“EX or LX” boils down to value versus price. On modern Civics (especially 2016–2024 sedans), the EX usually upgrades you from the base LX with a more powerful engine, additional driver-assistance features, and comfort/convenience items that improve daily use and resale value. However, the LX keeps costs (and often insurance) lower while preserving the Civic’s core strengths: reliability, efficiency, and safety.

Key Differences at a Glance

The points below summarize how the trims typically compare on recent Civics, with notes about model-year exceptions you should check at your local dealer.

Powertrain: On many 2016–2024 Civic sedans, LX uses a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine (~158 hp), while EX steps up to a 1.5L turbo (~180 hp). Earlier generations may differ, and hatchback trims are labeled differently (e.g., EX-L).

Fuel economy: Counterintuitively, the EX’s turbo often equals or slightly beats the LX on highway and combined MPG (typically by about 1–2 mpg, depending on year).

Features: EX commonly adds a moonroof, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, larger wheels, upgraded infotainment/audio, blind-spot information with rear cross-traffic alert, and additional convenience features.

Price: The EX usually costs about $2,000–$3,000 more than the LX when new; used-market gaps vary with mileage and condition.

Safety: Honda Sensing driver-assist tech is standard on both in recent years; EX may add more sensors and features, depending on model year.

Ownership costs: Both run on regular unleaded and share similar maintenance needs; insurance can be slightly higher for EX due to added equipment value.

In practical terms, the EX is the “sweet spot” for buyers who want more performance and amenities without jumping to the top trim, while the LX maximizes affordability.

Performance and Efficiency

In the 11th-generation Civic sedan (2022–2024), the EX’s 1.5L turbo not only accelerates more confidently but also tends to edge the LX in fuel economy. Earlier generations show similar patterns, though specifics vary. If you commute or drive in hilly areas, the EX’s extra torque is noticeable; if you mostly do city errands and prize simplicity, the LX’s 2.0L is perfectly adequate.

Features and Technology

Beyond the engine, the EX trim is where many buyers feel their money in daily use. While exact content varies by year, EX typically brings comfort upgrades (heated seats, dual-zone climate), convenience (remote start, additional USB ports), and safety/visibility enhancements (blind-spot monitoring in later years). The LX keeps the cabin straightforward with the essentials and Honda Sensing as standard in recent models.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Both trims rate well for safety, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking widely standard in late-model Civics. The EX may add blind-spot information and rear cross-traffic alert, which can be valuable in dense traffic and parking scenarios. Check the specific year’s equipment list, as availability can shift.

Pricing and Value

New, the EX’s price premium typically lands in the low-thousands over the LX. Many shoppers find the added features, stronger engine, and slightly better MPG justify that step. On the used market, depreciation often narrows the gap, making an EX an even more compelling value if priced close to an LX.

Model-Year and Body-Style Nuances

Trims and powertrains can change with product updates. For 2025, Honda is emphasizing hybrid trims (Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid) on the Civic; availability of LX and EX can vary by region and body style. Hatchbacks follow a different naming scheme (e.g., EX-L), which may bundle leather and other features distinct from the sedan’s EX content. Always verify the exact equipment on the specific car you’re considering.

Who Should Choose Which?

Use these quick profiles to match your priorities with the right trim.

Choose EX if you want stronger acceleration, often slightly better highway MPG, and comfort/safety features like a moonroof, heated seats, and blind-spot monitoring.

Choose LX if lowest purchase price, lower potential insurance, and a simple, reliable setup matter more than added amenities and power.

Consider higher or hybrid trims if you want the most tech, premium audio, or the new hybrid’s added power and efficiency (especially on 2025 models).

Framed this way, most shoppers leaning toward long-term ownership, highway travel, or higher resale value prefer the EX, while budget-first buyers are well served by the LX.

Notable Exceptions to Watch

Because Honda occasionally shuffles features by year, check for the following when shopping:

Headlight type and safety ratings tied to specific trims/years.

Infotainment screen size, smartphone integration, and audio upgrades moving between trims over time.

Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert availability, which expanded in later years.

A quick review of the window sticker or build sheet will confirm these details for the specific VIN.

Bottom Line

If you can afford it, the Civic EX is generally the better all-around choice thanks to its stronger engine and richer feature set, which improve daily livability and can bolster resale value. If you’re focused on minimizing upfront cost and still want a safe, efficient, and reliable Civic, the LX remains a smart buy.

Summary

Overall, the Honda Civic EX typically wins on performance, features, and long-term value, while the LX wins on price and simplicity. For most buyers, the EX strikes the best balance; for strict budgets, the LX delivers the Civic fundamentals at a lower cost. Verify features for your target year and body style, especially with 2025’s shift toward hybrid trims.

Is ex or lx more expensive?

2022 Honda CR-V LX vs.
If you’re keeping a close eye on your Fitchburg budget, note that the LX is more affordable, with a starting price of $26,800, while the CR-V EX has a starting price of $29,310*. Both CR-V trims deliver impressive engine performance specs and the ability to upgrade to the available AWD system.

What is better, a Honda LX or EX?

Neither the Honda EX nor LX is inherently “better”; the choice depends on your budget and desired features, as the LX is the more affordable base model offering essential features, while the EX provides a significant upgrade with more technology, comfort, and performance features for added value. The EX typically adds things like enhanced safety, better infotainment, heated seats, and a power moonroof, which are not standard on the LX.
Choose the LX if:

Your budget is a priority .
You want a reliable vehicle with essential features like Honda Sensing, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
You prefer a simpler driving experience and don’t need a long list of premium amenities.

Choose the EX if:

You want more advanced features for comfort and convenience.
You desire additional technology, such as larger touchscreens, wireless charging, and a premium audio system.
You want enhanced performance and fuel economy, as some EX models offer a turbocharged engine with better power.
You want features like heated front seats, a power moonroof, and advanced safety features such as a blind-spot monitor.

What is better, an ex or lx?

The “better” trim level between LX and EX depends on individual needs and preferences. Generally, the EX offers more features and a slightly more premium experience compared to the LX. However, the LX provides a solid foundation with essential features and a lower price point.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Honda LX (Base Model):

Strengths: Focuses on core functionality, reliability, and value.
Features: Typically includes standard safety features, a comfortable ride, and basic infotainment.
Example: In the Honda Accord, the LX offers a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a multi-angle rearview camera, according to a dealership.
Consider if: You prioritize a lower purchase price, don’t need a lot of extra features, and are happy with a more basic experience.

Honda EX:

Strengths: Offers a step up in features, technology, and sometimes performance.
Features: Often includes a larger touchscreen, upgraded audio system, smartphone integration, sunroof, heated seats, and more.
Example: In the Honda Civic, the EX might have a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, says a car dealership. In the Accord, the EX might include a larger touchscreen, wireless charging, and the Honda Sensing safety suite.
Consider if: You want a more comfortable and connected experience, extra features, and are willing to pay a bit more.

Key Differences to Consider:

Technology: EX trims often have larger touchscreens, better audio systems, and smartphone integration (like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto).
Comfort: EX models might have features like heated seats, sunroofs, and dual-zone climate control.
Performance: Some EX models offer upgraded engines or performance features.
Safety: Both LX and EX trims usually have Honda Sensing, but the EX might offer additional safety features like blind spot monitoring.
Wheels: EX trims might have larger alloy wheels compared to the LX’s steel wheels.

In Conclusion:
If you prioritize a lower price and don’t mind fewer features, the LX is a solid choice. If you value extra technology, comfort, and a more premium feel, the EX is likely the better option.

What’s the difference between ex and lx civic?

The main differences between the Honda Civic LX and EX are the LX’s role as a base model with fewer features and a standard engine, versus the EX’s upgrades in performance, luxury, and convenience. The EX typically offers a more powerful turbocharged engine, alloy wheels, a one-touch power moonroof, a better audio system, and luxury features like heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Honda Civic LX Key Features (Base Model)

Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder engine.
Wheels: Steel wheels with covers.
Audio System: 4-speaker sound system.
Display: 5-inch central display.
Comfort: Standard climate control.
Key Start: Features a key start ignition.

Honda Civic EX Key Features (Upgrade from LX)

Engine: More powerful 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
Wheels: 17-inch alloy wheels.
Audio System: 8-speaker audio system.
Display: 7-inch touchscreen.
Convenience:
- One-touch power moonroof.
- Heated front seats.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control.
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI).
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel.
- Push-button start.

Key Differences Summarized

Feature	Honda Civic LX	Honda Civic EX
Engine	2.0L naturally aspirated	1.5L turbocharged
Wheels	Steel with covers	Alloy
Moonroof	No	Yes, one-touch power
Heated Seats	No	Yes
Audio	4-speaker system	8-speaker system
Display	5-inch	7-inch touchscreen
Climate Control	Automatic	Dual-zone automatic
Safety	Honda Sensing suite	Honda Sensing + Blind Spot Information System (BSI)

Choose the LX if: . Opens in new tabYou want a fuel-efficient, reliable base model with essential features at a lower price point.
Choose the EX if: . Opens in new tabYou desire more power, a more luxurious interior with comfort features like heated seats and a moonroof, and modern tech amenities like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a larger touchscreen.