Honda CR‑V EX vs. LX: What’s the Difference?

The LX is the CR‑V’s base trim with the essentials, while the EX sits one step up and adds comfort, convenience, and safety upgrades such as a moonroof, larger alloy wheels, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, dual‑zone climate control, and blind‑spot monitoring; both typically share the same 1.5‑liter turbo engine, CVT, and core Honda Sensing safety suite. In practical terms, the EX costs a bit more but feels noticeably better equipped for daily use.

Where EX and LX sit in the current lineup

In the U.S. for the 2024–2025 model years (sixth‑generation CR‑V), LX is the entry trim and EX slots above it. Both are gasoline models with a 1.5‑liter turbo four and optional all‑wheel drive. Hybrid powertrains are reserved for Sport, Sport‑L, and Sport Touring trims. Note that in 2023 the LX was largely absent in the U.S., with EX effectively serving as the base model in many inventories.

Key differences at a glance

The following points highlight the most noticeable distinctions shoppers will encounter when choosing between the CR‑V LX and EX.

• Comfort/convenience: EX adds heated front seats, a 10‑way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, and dual‑zone automatic climate control (LX is single‑zone).
• Exterior: EX includes a one‑touch power moonroof, rear privacy glass, and 18‑inch alloy wheels (LX typically has 17‑inch wheels, often steel with covers).
• Tech: Both get a 7‑inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; EX generally upgrades audio output and adds more USB charge ports and smart key entry with Walk Away Auto Lock.
• Safety: Honda Sensing is standard on both; EX adds Blind Spot Information (BSI) with Rear Cross‑Traffic Monitor.
• Performance/MPG: Same 190‑hp 1.5‑liter turbo and CVT; fuel economy is nearly identical, with minor differences due to wheels/tires.
• Price: EX typically runs about $2,500–$3,000 more than LX in the U.S., depending on FWD vs. AWD and destination fees.

In short, EX builds on the LX with meaningful day‑to‑day upgrades—especially for comfort and safety—without changing the core powertrain or cabin/cargo space.

Feature‑by‑feature comparison

Engine and drivetrain

Buyers often ask whether the EX “drives better” than the LX. Mechanically, these two trims are nearly identical, so the differences you feel come from features rather than performance.

• Engine: 1.5‑liter turbocharged inline‑4 (about 190 hp), paired with a CVT on both LX and EX.
• Drivetrain: Front‑wheel drive standard; Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control available on both.
• Fuel economy: EPA ratings are very close; EX may see a marginal drop (often ~1 mpg) due to larger wheels/tires.
• Towing: Up to 1,500 lbs on both, when properly equipped.

Because the LX and EX share the same powertrain and chassis, your choice should be guided by features and budget rather than straight‑line performance.

Wheels and exterior

Exterior differences are subtle but noticeable, especially in wheels and glass treatment.

• Wheels: LX typically gets 17‑inch wheels (often steel), while EX upgrades to 18‑inch alloys for a more upscale look and feel.
• Moonroof: EX adds a one‑touch power moonroof; LX does not include one.
• Glass and mirrors: EX includes rear privacy glass and usually heated side mirrors; LX may lack privacy glass in many markets.
• Lighting: LED headlights are standard across trims.

These exterior upgrades give the EX a more premium stance without altering the vehicle’s size or utility.

Cabin and comfort

This is where most shoppers feel the EX’s value every day, especially in colder climates and for multi‑driver households.

• Seating: LX features cloth upholstery with manual adjustments; EX adds heated front seats and a 10‑way power driver’s seat with lumbar support (passenger seat remains manual).
• Climate: LX uses single‑zone automatic climate control; EX upgrades to dual‑zone automatic climate control.
• Convenience: EX typically adds remote engine start and Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock; LX generally has conventional remote entry.
• Space: Passenger and cargo room are the same between trims.

If you prioritize warmth, adjustability, and shared driving, the EX’s comfort upgrades are often worth the step up.

Infotainment and connectivity

Both trims deliver the essentials, but the EX enhances sound and charging convenience.

• Screen: Both LX and EX commonly feature a 7‑inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired).
• Audio: EX typically upgrades speaker count and audio output versus the LX’s base system.
• Ports: EX generally adds extra USB charge ports for rear passengers.
• Wireless features: Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto and built‑in navigation are generally reserved for higher trims (e.g., EX‑L/Sport‑L/Sport Touring).

For many buyers, the EX’s stronger audio and added charging flexibility improve family usability without requiring a higher trim.

Driver‑assistance and safety tech

All CR‑V trims pack Honda Sensing, but the EX layers on more situational awareness for lane changes and parking lots.

• Shared: Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low‑Speed Follow, and Traffic Sign Recognition.
• EX adds: Blind Spot Information (BSI) with Rear Cross‑Traffic Monitor, which the LX typically lacks.
• Airbags/structure: Identical across trims.

The added blind‑spot and cross‑traffic coverage on the EX are meaningful safety upgrades, especially in urban and suburban driving.

Pricing and value

Pricing varies by market, drivetrain, and incentives, but the relationship between LX and EX is consistent.

• MSRP gap: Expect the EX to cost roughly $2,500–$3,000 more than the LX in the U.S., with AWD adding on top of either trim.
• Resale: EX’s added features generally support stronger resale versus LX.
• Operating costs: Fuel, insurance, and maintenance are broadly similar due to shared powertrains and equipment.

If heated seats, blind‑spot monitoring, dual‑zone climate, and a moonroof matter to you, the EX’s price premium is usually justified over the life of the vehicle.

Who should choose which?

Matching the trim to your use case helps maximize value and satisfaction.

• Choose LX if you want the most affordable CR‑V with the same core powertrain, space, and standard Honda Sensing safety.
• Choose EX if you value comfort upgrades (heated seats, power driver’s seat, dual‑zone climate), enhanced safety (BSI with cross‑traffic), and a more premium exterior (moonroof, alloy wheels).

Both are solid choices; the EX simply aligns better with common comfort and safety priorities for families and commuters.

Model‑year and market notes

A few caveats ensure you’re comparing like for like.

• 2023 U.S. availability: The LX was scarce or absent; EX functioned as the entry trim. From 2024 onward, LX returned widely.
• Regional differences: Features and naming can vary in Canada and other markets; always verify local specs.
• Options/packages: Dealers may add accessories; higher trims (EX‑L, Sport‑L, Sport Touring) offer larger screens, leather, power tailgate, and hybrid powertrains.

Always confirm equipment on the specific VIN or window sticker, as mid‑year updates and regional packaging can change details.

Summary

The CR‑V LX and EX share the same engine, transmission, and spacious interior, but the EX layers on high‑impact upgrades: heated seats, power driver’s seat, dual‑zone climate, blind‑spot with cross‑traffic, a moonroof, and larger alloy wheels. If your budget allows, the EX’s comfort and safety additions make it the sweeter spot; if price is paramount, the LX delivers the fundamentals without compromise to performance or space.

What does ex mean on a Honda CR-V?

Sport: These trims tend to offer enhancements to the engineering for a sportier performance with better engine power, suspension, drivetrain, fuel economy, and safety features. EX: This serves as a sweet spot with standard features and enhanced performance capabilities, along with a few exclusive amenities.

What is the difference between CRV EX and LX?

Model comes with 17in steel with covers. We’ll come right over. Here. Both are going to have bodycoled. Side mirrors with turning indicators.

What does LX stand for in a Honda CR-V?

LX Car Trim Level:
LX typically denotes the base model of a car. An LX car is typically equipped with the bare minimum, just the essentials in terms of features. The LX trim would include leather seats, heated seats, and an upgraded sound system on a luxurious vehicle.

What’s the difference between Honda EX and LX?

EX: Price and Power. While both Honda Civic models get a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, the LX version delivers up to 158 hp while the EX is powered by a turbocharged 174 hp variant.