Honda Accord LX-P vs. LX: What’s the Difference?
The LX-P is the “LX Premium” trim that was offered on certain eighth‑generation Honda Accord sedans (primarily U.S. market, 2008–2012). It builds on the base LX with a few comfort and appearance upgrades—most notably an 8‑way power driver’s seat and alloy wheels—while keeping the same engine, transmission options, and safety hardware. In later model years, Honda supplemented or replaced the LX‑P with the SE (Special Edition) in some markets.
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What the LX and LX-P names mean
Honda uses “LX” to denote the entry trim on many models. During the 2008–2012 Accord sedan run, “LX-P” stood for “LX Premium,” a step above the base LX aimed at buyers who wanted a little more comfort and a more upscale look without moving up to the EX, which adds a moonroof, upgraded audio, and other features.
Core differences at a glance
Below is a practical breakdown of what the LX-P typically adds over the LX on 2008–2012 Accord sedans. Exact content can vary by model year and region, but these are the hallmark changes most shoppers will notice.
- 8-way power driver’s seat (LX is manual-adjustable)
- 16-inch alloy wheels (LX usually has 16-inch steel wheels with covers)
- Minor convenience/appearance upgrades depending on year (for example, small interior trim touches)
Outside of these additions, LX and LX-P share the same core hardware and cabin layout. If you prefer power seating and alloys, the LX-P is the value sweet spot; otherwise, the LX delivers the essentials with lower cost and potentially lower replacement-wheel/tire costs.
What doesn’t change between LX and LX-P
Because LX-P is a content package rather than a mechanical upgrade, the following items are effectively the same between the two trims.
- Engine and transmission: the same 2.4L 4-cylinder and 5-speed manual/automatic offerings (model-year dependent)
- Chassis and dimensions: identical platform, suspension layout, and interior space
- Safety equipment: the same airbag count, stability control (where equipped), ABS, and crash structure
- Fuel economy and maintenance: no meaningful difference in EPA ratings or service intervals
In practice, owning an LX vs. an LX-P costs about the same to fuel and maintain; the LX-P’s alloy wheels may change tire/wheel replacement costs slightly compared with steel wheels.
Model years and availability
The LX-P badge is specific to a narrow window in the Accord’s timeline. Here’s how it fit into the lineup across those years.
- 2008–2010 (U.S. sedan): LX-P sits between LX and EX, adding power driver’s seat and alloys
- 2011–2012 (U.S. sedan): SE (Special Edition) arrives; in many configurations it builds on LX-P content by adding leather and heated front seats. Depending on inventory and region, LX-P and SE were both sold.
- 2013 and newer: Honda dropped the LX-P name as the Accord was redesigned; trims shifted to LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, etc.
- Coupes of the same era typically used “LX-S” rather than LX-P.
If you’re shopping used, verify the window sticker or a VIN-based build sheet for the exact equipment, since features can vary slightly by model year and market.
Choosing between LX and LX-P
For budget-focused buyers, the LX delivers the core Accord experience. If you value a power driver’s seat for comfort and appreciate the look and potential resale appeal of factory alloy wheels, the LX-P is often worth the small price premium on the used market. Both trims share the Accord’s reputation for reliability, practicality, and strong safety performance.
Summary
The Honda Accord LX-P is essentially an LX with “premium” conveniences—chiefly an 8‑way power driver’s seat and alloy wheels—sold mainly on 2008–2012 sedans in the U.S. It doesn’t change the powertrain, safety, or overall dynamics. Think of it as a comfort-and-appearance upgrade over the base LX; later, the SE trim appeared with similar content plus leather, depending on the year and market.
What engine is in the 2008 Honda Accord LX-P?
Engine
| Base engine size | 2.4 L |
|---|---|
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
What is the Honda LX-P trim?
In Honda trim levels, LX stands for a base model, offering essential features, while LX-P signifies a “Premium” or enhanced version of the LX trim that adds more convenience features like a remote engine start, a power moonroof, and a smart keyless entry system, but is generally not as luxurious as higher trims like the EX or Touring. The “-P” was a specific designation used on certain models, such as the Honda Civic Coupe, to denote this higher level of standard equipment within the LX category.
Understanding Honda Trim Levels
- LX: . Opens in new tabThis is typically Honda’s entry-level, or base, trim. It comes with fundamental features and is a more affordable option.
- LX-P: . Opens in new tabThe “-P” stands for “Premium”. It indicates an upgraded version of the LX, offering additional standard features.
- Higher Trims (e.g., EX, EX-L): . Opens in new tabThese trims build upon the LX and LX-P, adding more advanced technology, enhanced comfort, and sometimes better performance.
Features Added in LX-P
The specific features of the LX-P can vary slightly by model year and car type, but commonly include: remote engine start, smart entry and push-button start, and one-touch power moonroof.
In Summary
If you see an “LX-P” Honda, you can expect a vehicle that is more equipped than a standard LX but still a practical and economical choice.
What is the difference between LX and LX-P?
LX-P includes all features available on LX, plus the following: Remote Engine Start. Smart Entry. Push Button Start.
What are the differences between Honda Accord models?
The LX is the base trim on the 2025 Honda Accord, while the SE trim is one level up, offering additional upgrades such as heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power moonroof, an 8-speaker audio system, and 60/40 split fold-down rear seats.
