2001 Honda Accord DX vs. EX: What’s the Difference?

The 2001 Honda Accord DX is the basic, value-focused trim with a 2.3-liter non-VTEC four-cylinder and minimal equipment, while the EX sits at the top with a more powerful VTEC four-cylinder (or optional V6), a moonroof, alloy wheels, upgraded audio, and additional comfort and safety features. Both belong to the same sixth-generation Accord (1998–2002), but they target very different buyers in terms of performance and amenities.

Where the DX and EX Sit in the Lineup

In 2001, Honda slotted the DX as the entry-level Accord, the LX as the mainstream mid-trim, and the EX as the premium offering. That hierarchy dictated not just creature comforts, but also engine tuning and feature availability. The result: the DX emphasized affordability and simplicity; the EX prioritized features and performance without stepping into luxury-badge territory.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the differences are meaningful. Honda reserved its stronger engines and broader transmission choices for the EX, while the DX kept costs down with a simpler setup. The points below outline the key distinctions you’ll typically find between these trims.

• Engines: DX uses a 2.3-liter non-VTEC inline-four rated around 135 hp; EX upgrades to a 2.3-liter VTEC inline-four at about 150 hp. The EX was also available as EX V6 with a 3.0-liter V6 around 200 hp.
• Transmissions: Four-cylinder models offered a 5-speed manual as standard with an optional 4-speed automatic; the V6 was paired with a 4-speed automatic only.
• Wheels and tires: DX typically came with steel wheels and covers; EX models featured larger alloy wheels for improved appearance and handling feel.
• Brakes and hardware: Four-cylinder cars generally used front discs and rear drums; V6 models stepped up to four-wheel discs. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were common on EX V6 and available on many EX four-cylinders, but rare on DX.
• Fuel economy: Real-world mpg for the DX and EX four-cylinders is similar; the V6 trades some efficiency for power.

In practice, the EX four-cylinder delivers a bit more punch and refinement versus the DX, while the EX V6 markedly improves acceleration. Brake hardware and wheel upgrades on the EX also add confidence compared with the entry DX.

Comfort, Convenience, and Exterior Features

The interior and exterior equipment gaps are where most shoppers will notice the biggest differences. The EX bundles features that many consider must-haves today, while the DX keeps basics intact to hit a lower price point.

• DX highlights: manual windows and door locks (in most markets), basic cloth upholstery, AM/FM stereo (often cassette on base units), no moonroof, steel wheels, and air conditioning that may be optional on some vehicles.
• EX highlights: power windows/locks/mirrors, keyless entry, power moonroof, alloy wheels, upgraded audio with CD player and more speakers, body-color exterior trim, and additional interior trim enhancements. Leather upholstery was available on some EX models as an option package.
• Cruise control: typically absent on DX; standard on EX.

For daily use, the EX feels better equipped and more refined, while the DX sticks to essentials and forgoes convenience features to keep costs down.

Safety and Driver Aids

Both trims share the same safety fundamentals of the era, but the EX tends to offer more available protection through options and packages, especially when equipped as a V6.

• Airbags: dual front airbags were standard across the lineup; side-impact airbags were available on EX models in many markets but generally not offered on DX.
• ABS: commonly standard on EX V6 and available on many EX four-cylinder cars; rarely seen on DX.
• Brakes: four-cylinder models typically had rear drum brakes; V6 models upgraded to rear discs, improving stopping performance and fade resistance.
• Stability aids: electronic stability control was not part of this generation; traction control was limited and not widely available.

If advanced safety for the time is a priority, the EX—especially with ABS and side airbags—usually has the edge over the DX.

Pricing and Market Considerations Today

On the used market in 2025, the spread between DX and EX often comes down to condition, mileage, maintenance history, and whether the EX is a four-cylinder or V6. EX models typically command higher prices thanks to equipment and, in V6 form, performance. That said, a well-kept DX can offer lower operating costs and fewer complex features to maintain.

How to Verify a Specific Car

Because equipment could vary by region and original buyer options, it’s wise to confirm what’s on any given car rather than relying on badges alone. Use the checklist below when shopping or comparing.

• Confirm the engine: look for the 2.3L VTEC label (EX) vs non-VTEC (DX), or the 3.0L V6 on EX V6.
• Check features: moonroof, alloy wheels, keyless entry, cruise control, and upgraded audio typically indicate EX.
• Safety gear: verify ABS and side airbags via dash indicators, window stickers, or the VIN build sheet.
• Run the VIN: decode through Honda or reputable VIN services to see the original trim and options.
• Inspect brakes: rear discs suggest a V6 (and thus not a DX), while rear drums are common on four-cylinder models.

Taking a few minutes to verify equipment prevents confusion caused by swapped wheels, aftermarket stereos, or badges added after the fact.

Bottom Line

The 2001 Accord DX is the budget-friendly, minimally equipped choice with a non-VTEC four-cylinder, while the EX is the upscale trim that adds a stronger VTEC four-cylinder or available V6, a moonroof, alloy wheels, more robust audio, and typically more safety options. If you want more features and performance, the EX is the clear pick; if you value simplicity and lower cost, the DX fits the bill.

Summary

DX equals basic equipment and non-VTEC 2.3L power; EX brings a VTEC four-cylinder or optional V6, moonroof, alloy wheels, better audio, and more available safety tech. Both share the same platform, but they cater to different priorities: affordability and simplicity (DX) versus comfort and capability (EX).

What is the difference between Honda Accord DX and EX?

The Honda Accord EX typically offers more features and a slightly more upscale experience compared to the DX trim. Key differences include features like a power moonroof, heated front seats, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring in the EX, which are not found in the DX. 
Here’s a more detailed comparison: 
Honda Accord DX: 

• Base Model: The DX is generally the base, or entry-level, trim of the Accord. 
• Standard Features: It often includes features like power windows, a single 12-volt power outlet, remote trunk release, and rear window defroster. 
• Manual or Automatic: You can usually find it with either a manual or automatic transmission. 
• Black Exterior Trim: The DX often features black door handles and side mirrors, rather than color-matched ones. 
• Basic Interior: The interior is typically more basic and less luxurious than higher trims. 
• No Moonroof or Heated Seats: The DX typically lacks a moonroof and heated seats, which are common upgrades in higher trims. 

Honda Accord EX:

• Upgraded Features: The EX trim builds upon the DX, adding a variety of desirable features. 
• Power Moonroof: A power moonroof with one-touch opening is a standard feature in the EX. 
• Heated Front Seats: The EX usually includes heated front seats, enhancing comfort. 
• Advanced Safety: It often comes with blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alerts, increasing safety. 
• Improved Audio: The EX often has a more advanced audio system, like an eight-speaker setup. 
• Power Driver’s Seat: A power-adjustable driver’s seat is another feature often found in the EX. 
• Dual-Zone Climate Control: The EX typically includes dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort. 
• 60/40 Split Rear Seats: The EX often features 60/40 split-folding rear seats for added versatility. 
• More Luxurious Interior: The EX generally has a more upscale interior with premium materials and finishes. 
• Wheels: The EX often comes with alloy wheels, unlike the LX which may have wheel covers according to Quora. 

What does DX mean on a Honda Accord?

DX is base model – so no goodies like disc brakes or sunroof or v6 . LX is mid-tier, so no sunroof, but I think you could option them with rear disc brakes (and v6).

What is the difference between 2001 Honda Accord EX and LX?

The 2001 Honda Accord EX offers more features and upgrades compared to the LX trim. Key differences include standard side airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS) in the EX, while they were optional on the LX. The EX also typically includes a sunroof and alloy wheels, which were not standard on the LX. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
2001 Honda Accord LX:

• Standard Features: The LX trim level typically includes power windows, power door locks, and cruise control. 
• Optional Features: Advanced side airbags and ABS were available as options. 
• Engine: Both LX and EX models came with the same engine options, typically a 2.3L four-cylinder. 
• Fuel Economy: Similar fuel economy between LX and EX models. 

2001 Honda Accord EX:

• Standard Features: The EX trim includes advanced dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, as well as standard side airbags and ABS. 
• Additional Features: The EX trim level usually comes with a sunroof and alloy wheels. 
• Engine: The EX trim offers the same engine options as the LX. 
• Fuel Economy: Similar fuel economy between EX and LX models. 

Key Takeaway: The EX trim is a step up from the LX, offering enhanced safety features and more premium amenities. If you’re looking for a more feature-rich Accord with added safety, the EX is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget and don’t mind missing out on some of the extra features, the LX is still a solid option.

What is the difference between Honda DX and EX?

The Honda Civic EX generally offers more features and a slightly more powerful engine than the LX, which in turn offers more than the DX. The DX is typically the most basic trim, the LX adds some convenience and appearance upgrades, and the EX builds on that with additional technology, comfort, and sometimes performance features. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Honda Civic DX:

• Base Model: The DX is the most basic trim level, offering essential features and functionality.
• Exterior: Features 15-inch steel wheels.
• Interior: Generally has a more basic interior with fewer features compared to the LX and EX. 

Honda Civic LX:

• Features: Builds upon the DX with some added convenience and appearance features, such as body-colored mirrors and a better radio, cruise control. 
• Exterior: May include 16-inch alloy wheels. 
• Interior: Offers a more refined interior than the DX. 

Honda Civic EX:

• Features: Adds even more features than the LX, often including a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and potentially more performance enhancements like four-wheel disc brakes. 
• Exterior: May feature chrome accents and a different grille design compared to the LX. 
• Interior: May include upscale touches like leather trim, ambient lighting, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. 
• Performance: The EX may have a more powerful engine than the LX, potentially a 1.5L turbocharged engine. 
• Technology: Often includes a larger touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto), and potentially more advanced driver-assistance features. 

In essence:

• The DX is the entry-level model with the fewest features. 
• The LX adds some desirable features and upgrades over the DX. 
• The EX provides a more premium experience with more technology, comfort, and potentially performance enhancements.