Honda Accord LX vs EX: Which Trim Is Better?

The EX is the better choice for most buyers because it adds key safety tech and comfort features for a modest price increase, while the LX is best if you want the lowest out-the-door cost and don’t need extras. In the current 11th-generation Accord (2023–2025 in the U.S.), both trims share the same engine, transmission, and fuel economy; the EX typically upgrades you with blind-spot monitoring, heated seats, a power driver’s seat, a moonroof, and a better audio system. Here’s how to decide which one fits your needs and budget.

What’s Different Between LX and EX Now?

Honda kept the Accord’s LX and EX mechanically identical in recent model years, focusing the EX’s price bump on everyday usability and driver-assistance upgrades. While specifics can vary by model year and region, these are the most consistent differences on 2023–2025 U.S. models.

• Safety and visibility: EX typically adds Blind Spot Information with Rear Cross Traffic Monitor; LX usually lacks it.
• Comfort: EX includes heated front seats and a 10-way power driver’s seat with lumbar; LX uses manual cloth seats without heat.
• Climate and convenience: EX offers dual-zone automatic climate control and a one-touch power moonroof; LX generally has single-zone automatic climate and no moonroof.
• Audio and connectivity: EX upgrades to an 8-speaker system and adds more USB/USB-C ports; LX has a basic 4-speaker setup.
• Interior touches: EX gets additional soft-touch trim and features that improve daily livability; LX stays simpler.

Because these are feature-layer differences, not hardware changes, the way the car drives is essentially the same across both trims.

Performance, MPG, and Ride

Both Accord LX and EX use Honda’s 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired with a CVT, delivering similar acceleration and the same EPA fuel economy (around 32 mpg combined in recent model years). Ride, handling, and braking feel alike, as spring/damper tuning and wheel sizes are comparable. If you want more power or substantially different driving character, you’d step up to the hybrid trims—not the EX specifically.

Price and Value

The EX typically costs roughly $2,000–$3,000 more than the LX before incentives, depending on model year and market. In return, you get safety features that many buyers now consider essential (blind-spot monitoring), comfort upgrades that improve daily use (heated power seat, dual-zone), and small quality-of-life wins (better audio, more ports, moonroof). Those additions can also aid resale value, as mid-trim Accords tend to be in higher demand on the used market.

Who Should Buy Which?

Use these common buyer profiles to quickly sort yourself into LX or EX.

1. Budget-first commuters: Choose LX if you want the Accord’s core strengths—space, reliability, and efficiency—at the lowest price.
2. Daily drivers and families: Choose EX for blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alerts, heated/power seat, and dual-zone climate—features that reduce fatigue and add convenience.
3. Cold-climate buyers: Choose EX for heated seats alone; they’re worth it in winter.
4. Resale-minded shoppers: Choose EX; the feature set typically makes it easier to sell later.

If you don’t fit neatly into a profile, list the EX features you’d use weekly. If two or more matter to you, the EX usually pencils out over time.

Pros and Cons

Accord LX

The LX focuses on value and simplicity without sacrificing the Accord’s core competency.

• Pros: Lowest price; identical powertrain and MPG as EX; full Honda Sensing suite standard; roomy, refined cabin for the class.
• Cons: No blind-spot monitoring; manual, non-heated front seats; basic 4-speaker audio; fewer convenience features.

For shoppers who prize reliability, efficiency, and a roomy interior above extras, the LX covers the essentials well.

Accord EX

The EX adds comfort, convenience, and safety features that many drivers appreciate every day.

• Pros: Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert; heated front seats; power driver’s seat; dual-zone climate; better audio; moonroof; generally stronger resale.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost; still cloth seating (leather requires EX-L or higher); same performance as LX.

If your budget allows, the EX’s upgrades improve daily life and peace of mind without changing the Accord’s fundamental driving character.

Caveats and Shopping Tips

A few details can vary by model year and market, so verify the exact equipment on the car you’re considering.

• Model-year changes: Features can shift slightly; check the window sticker or Honda’s official specs for your year.
• Regional differences: Some markets package features differently; U.S. details above may not apply elsewhere.
• Incentives and inventory: If an EX has better incentives or availability than an LX, the net price gap can narrow significantly.
• Test seat comfort: The EX’s power adjustments and heat are meaningful for long commutes—try both trims back-to-back.

Confirming equipment and pricing on the exact VIN helps ensure you’re comparing apples to apples at the dealership.

Bottom Line

If you want the best value blend of safety and comfort, the Accord EX is the smarter pick for most buyers. If minimizing purchase price is your top priority and you can live without blind-spot monitoring, heated seats, and the other conveniences, the LX is a perfectly solid, efficient Accord.

Summary

Both Accord LX and EX drive the same and return similar fuel economy. The EX justifies its price premium with blind-spot monitoring, heated and power-adjustable seating, dual-zone climate, a better audio system, and a moonroof—extras that improve daily usability and resale. Choose EX for feature content and long-term satisfaction; choose LX for the lowest cost of entry into a refined, efficient midsize sedan.

What does LX mean on a Honda Accord?

On a Honda Accord, the “LX” designation typically signifies the base trim level. It’s the entry-level model, offering essential features and functionality. While it’s the most basic trim, it still includes features like automatic headlights, a rearview camera, and Honda Sensing safety features, according to AutoNation USA. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Base Trim: The LX is the starting point for the Honda Accord lineup. 
• Essential Features: It provides the core functionality and features expected in a modern car, including: 
  • Automatic headlights. 
  • Rearview camera. 
  • Honda Sensing suite of safety features (e.g., collision mitigation braking system, road departure mitigation, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control). 
• Cloth Interior: Typically, the LX trim comes with cloth seats. 
• Basic Sound System: The sound system is usually a basic setup. 
• Key Fob Access: Entry is typically via a key fob rather than a smart key system. 
• Not Completely Stripped Down: Even the base LX trim includes features like power windows, a color LCD screen, and a multi-angle rearview camera. 

Is Honda EX or LX more expensive?

2022 Honda CR-V LX vs.
One of the primary differences between the Honda CR-V EX and LX is the starting price. 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*.

Is a Honda EX better than an LX?

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. 

Is the Honda Accord EX or LX better?

The Honda Accord EX generally offers more features and a slightly more premium experience than the LX, but the LX is a solid, budget-friendly option. The EX typically includes extras like heated seats, a moonroof, and blind-spot monitoring, while the LX focuses on essential features and affordability. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Honda Accord LX:

• Pros:
  • More affordable starting price. 
  • Good fuel economy. 
  • Reliable and practical sedan. 
  • Offers essential features like a touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a multi-angle rearview camera, according to Showcase Honda. 
• Cons:
  • Fewer standard features compared to the EX. 
  • May feel less luxurious or feature-rich. 

Honda Accord EX: 

• Pros: 
  • More upscale features like heated seats, a moonroof, and blind-spot monitoring, according to Delray Honda. 
  • Enhanced comfort and convenience features. 
  • Potentially more appealing to those who value extra technology and amenities. 
• Cons:
  • Higher starting price than the LX. 
  • May not be necessary for drivers who prioritize basic functionality. 

Ultimately, the “better” choice depends on individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with essential features, the LX is a great choice. If you desire more comfort, convenience, and technology, the EX might be a better fit.