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

For most shoppers, the Civic EX is the better choice thanks to its added comfort, convenience, and (in many years) a stronger, more efficient turbo engine; the LX is best if you want the lowest price and a simpler setup. That said, availability varies by model year—particularly for 2025 in the U.S., where Honda shifted mid-tier trims to hybrid models and the EX largely disappeared from the new-car lineup—so your decision may depend on whether you’re buying new or used.

What “EX vs. LX” Means Today

The LX has long been the Civic’s value-focused base trim, while the EX traditionally adds desirable features like a moonroof, heated seats, upgraded audio, and, in several generations, a more powerful turbocharged engine. In the 2025 U.S. lineup, Honda replaced the EX sedan with hybrid trims (Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid), so you’ll mostly be choosing between LX and hybrid models if shopping new. On the used market (or in some regions), the EX remains a common and compelling step up from LX.

Key Differences by Model Year (U.S. Market)

2016–2021 (10th Generation)

This period includes significant changes mid-cycle, so the EX’s powertrain advantage varies by year. The list below outlines typical distinctions you’ll see between LX and EX trims during these model years.

• LX: 2.0L naturally aspirated engine (158 hp), simpler equipment, smaller wheels, no moonroof, basic audio; Honda Sensing driver assists became more widely standard over time.
• EX: More features (moonroof, heated front seats in many years, upgraded audio, larger wheels). Depending on the year, EX or EX-T includes the 1.5L turbo engine (174–180 hp). Blind-spot tech evolved from Honda LaneWatch camera (earlier years) to radar-based Blind Spot Information (later years).

In short, the EX often adds comfort features and, in many cases, the livelier turbo engine; the LX emphasizes affordability and simplicity.

2022–2024 (11th Generation, pre-refresh)

Honda clarified the trim ladder, making the EX a notable step up from the LX—especially for the sedan.

• LX: 2.0L engine (158 hp), 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (wired), 4-speaker audio, 16-inch wheels, cloth seats, Honda Sensing suite; typically no moonroof and no blind-spot monitor.
• EX (sedan): 1.5L turbo (about 180 hp), moonroof, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, 8-speaker audio, 17-inch wheels, Blind Spot Information with rear cross-traffic alert, and remote start.

For these years, the EX sedan generally delivers better performance and more amenities without a big fuel economy penalty—often an ideal sweet spot.

2025 (11th Generation refresh)

Honda restructured trims around hybrids for the sedan, and the EX largely exited the new-car U.S. lineup. Here’s how that affects the familiar EX vs. LX comparison.

• LX (sedan): Continues as the value trim with the 2.0L engine and core features.
• EX: Typically not offered new on 2025 U.S. sedans; mid-tier choices are Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid, which outpace both LX and past EX models on power and efficiency.

If you’re shopping new in 2025, you’ll likely compare LX to the hybrid trims instead of an EX; for used cars, the EX remains a strong upgrade over LX.

Pros and Cons

Civic EX: Why It’s Often “Better”

The EX usually adds features that boost daily comfort, safety convenience, and resale value. The following highlights are common across many model years.

• More amenities: Moonroof, heated seats, dual-zone climate, better audio, larger wheels.
• More tech: Blind-spot monitoring or LaneWatch (year-dependent), remote start, additional USBs.
• Performance/efficiency edge in many years: 1.5L turbo often delivers stronger acceleration and similar or better highway mpg than the 2.0L.
• Resale: Mid-trim Civics tend to hold value well due to equipment and demand.

Trade-offs include a higher purchase price and, for turbo models, slightly more mechanical complexity versus the LX’s simpler 2.0L engine.

Civic LX: Why It Still Makes Sense

The LX keeps the Civic’s fundamentals—space, dynamics, and efficiency—while minimizing cost and complexity.

• Lowest price and insurance: Easiest way into a reliable Civic with modern safety features.
• Simplicity: The 2.0L naturally aspirated engine is straightforward and proven.
• Comfortable enough: Many core features are standard, especially in newer years (Honda Sensing, touchscreen with smartphone integration).

Expect fewer creature comforts and, in many years, less punch than the EX’s turbo engine. If you value amenities, the LX may feel basic.

Reliability, Fuel Economy, and Ownership Notes

Both trims share Honda’s reputation for reliability. The 2.0L engine (LX) is simple and durable; the 1.5L turbo (common on EX in many years) offers better midrange power and can match or beat highway mpg. Early 1.5T Civics (particularly in very cold climates and short-trip use) were associated with oil dilution concerns; Honda issued software updates and running changes, and the issue has been far less common in later model years. Always check service history and perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection on used cars.

Price and Resale Considerations

New, the EX typically carried a modest premium over the LX; used, the gap varies with mileage, condition, and local demand. Expect the EX to command higher resale value due to equipment and, for many years, the turbo powertrain. If your budget allows, the EX’s added features often pay off in day-to-day satisfaction and future resale.

Which One Should You Buy?

Use the points below to match a trim to your priorities and model-year context.

• Choose EX if you want more comfort features, likely better performance (in turbo years), blind-spot tech, and stronger resale—and you’re shopping 2016–2024 used or new (where available).
• Choose LX if you want the lowest price, a simpler engine, and can live without extras like heated seats, a moonroof, and blind-spot monitoring.
• For 2025 new shoppers in the U.S., compare LX against the Sport Hybrid/Sport Touring Hybrid—these hybrids outperform both LX and past EX models on power and mpg.

Ultimately, most buyers find the EX’s added equipment worth the premium—unless the lowest purchase cost and mechanical simplicity are your top goals.

Bottom Line

In most years, the Civic EX is “better” for everyday comfort, features, and, often, performance, while the LX is the smart pick for budget-minded drivers who value simplicity. For 2025 U.S. shoppers, consider the hybrids as the new mid-tier benchmark since the EX is largely absent new; for used Civics, the EX remains a sweet spot.

Summary

If you want more features and, in many years, a stronger turbo engine, go EX; if you want the lowest price and a simple, proven powertrain, go LX. For 2025 new U.S. models, look to the hybrid trims in place of EX.

Which civic trim is best?

There isn’t one “best” Honda Civic trim; the ideal choice depends on your priorities, such as budget, luxury, fuel efficiency, or performance. For a well-equipped, high-tech, and luxurious experience, the Touring trim is the top choice. If you want a balance of desirable features and excellent fuel economy, the Sport Hybrid is a strong contender for its punchy hybrid engine and features like heated seats. For sporty performance, the Si is the best for enthusiasts, while the LX is a sensible option for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing efficiency and essential features.
 
For Luxury and Tech Features: 

• Civic Touring: This top-tier trim offers the most premium features, including leather-trimmed seats, power-adjustable seats, a high-end Bose audio system, advanced navigation, and a wireless charging pad.

For Fuel Efficiency and Modern Features:

• Civic Sport Hybrid: . Opens in new tabA great balance for many, this trim adds significant performance with its 200-horsepower hybrid engine while still offering excellent fuel economy. It also includes desirable features like a sunroof and heated seats. 
• Civic Sport Touring Hybrid: . Opens in new tabIf you want the full luxury package with the added benefits of the hybrid powertrain, this is the trim to choose, featuring leather seats and the Bose sound system. 

For a Performance Focus: 

• Civic Si: This trim is for driving enthusiasts, offering performance-oriented upgrades for a more engaging and sporty driving experience.

For Value and Budget-Friendliness:

• Civic LX: . Opens in new tabFor buyers focused on affordability and essential features, the LX provides reliable transportation with standard safety features, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. 
• Civic Sport: . Opens in new tabA popular choice for its sporty looks and a reasonable price increase over the LX, it adds features like 18-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an improved audio system. 

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 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.

What does LX mean on a Civic?

On a Honda Civic, LX refers to a trim level, generally the base or entry-level model, offering essential features and a focus on comfort and convenience over performance or luxury options. While the exact features vary by model year, an LX Civic typically includes standard equipment like a rearview camera, Bluetooth, power windows and locks, and a basic sound system, distinguishing it from higher trims like the Sport or EX.
 
Key Characteristics of the LX Trim

• Entry-Level Standard: The LX is often the least expensive trim level, providing a balance of affordability and necessary features for daily driving. 
• Essential Features: It comes equipped with fundamental amenities such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and basic audio controls on the steering wheel. 
• Focus on Comfort: The LX provides core comfort and convenience features like cruise control, a security system with remote entry, and a fold-down rear seat. 
• Technology: Depending on the model year, an LX Civic will have standard tech, such as Bluetooth connectivity, a multi-angle rearview camera, and a central display screen. 

Examples of LX Features by Model Year

• 2025 Civic LX: . Opens in new tabIncludes standard driver-assist features, 16-inch steel wheels, a 5-inch color display, and a four-speaker audio system. 
• 2018 Civic LX: . Opens in new tabFeatured automatic headlights, cruise control, Bluetooth, and steering-wheel controls. 
• 2013 Civic LX: . Opens in new tabCame with a fold-down back seat, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth, while the EX trim added alloy wheels and a moonroof. 

In summary, the “LX” on a Honda Civic indicates a well-equipped, entry-level trim that offers a solid foundation of standard features.