Honda Accord EX vs. EX-L: Which Trim Is Better in 2025?

For most buyers, the Accord EX-L—sold in the current lineup as the EX-L Hybrid—is the better pick thanks to far superior fuel economy, more torque, a larger infotainment screen, and upgraded interior materials; the EX is the better choice if you want the lowest price and prefer the simpler non-hybrid powertrain. Here’s how the two compare so you can decide which suits your needs and budget.

How the 2025 Lineup Frames This Choice

Honda redesigned the Accord for 2023 and streamlined trims. As of the 2024–2025 model years in the U.S., the EX is a gas-only model with the 1.5-liter turbo engine, while the EX-L is only offered as the EX-L Hybrid. That means “EX vs. EX-L” is also, practically, “gas vs. hybrid,” alongside differences in features and cabin finish.

Powertrain, Performance, and Efficiency

The core distinction is under the hood, and it drives most of the ownership experience: how the car accelerates, sounds, and sips fuel.

Below is a breakdown of the engines and efficiency to clarify how each trim behaves day to day.

• Accord EX: 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (192 hp) paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive. Expect roughly 32 mpg combined (EPA estimate varies slightly by year/equipment).
• Accord EX-L Hybrid: Two-motor hybrid with a 2.0-liter engine (204 hp combined). Delivers strong low-speed torque and quiet cruising via an e-CVT-like drive. EPA up to 48 mpg combined on EX-L Hybrid, among the best in the class.

In short, the EX-L Hybrid is materially more efficient and feels smoother around town, while the EX’s 1.5T offers conventional behavior at a lower entry price.

Features and Cabin Experience

Beyond the powertrain, the EX-L Hybrid brings a meaningful step up in tech and interior appointments compared to the EX.

These are the notable equipment differences shoppers tend to care about the most.

• Infotainment: EX has a 7-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; EX-L Hybrid upgrades to a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Interior materials: EX uses cloth upholstery; EX-L Hybrid adds leather-trimmed seating.
• Seats and convenience: Both have heated front seats; EX-L Hybrid adds a power-adjustable front passenger seat and driver’s memory settings.
• USB/power: EX-L Hybrid includes additional rear charging ports compared with the EX.
• Safety/driver assists: Both include Honda Sensing with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assists; blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is standard on both. Higher trims may add further convenience aids, but availability can vary by model year.

Taken together, the EX-L Hybrid feels more premium and tech-forward, especially with its larger screen and leather interior.

Price, Fuel Costs, and Value

The EX’s appeal is its lower MSRP, while the EX-L Hybrid offsets a higher sticker with fuel savings and extra features. Exact pricing varies by destination charges and dealer inventory, but broadly:

Here’s a simple value snapshot to illustrate potential ownership costs.

• Typical MSRPs: Accord EX roughly around the high-$20,000s; EX-L Hybrid typically in the low-to-mid $30,000s (check local listings for current numbers).
• Fuel use (12,000 miles/year): EX at ~32 mpg uses ~375 gallons; EX-L Hybrid at ~48 mpg uses ~250 gallons.
• Annual fuel spend (example $3.75/gal): EX ≈ $1,406; EX-L Hybrid ≈ $938; savings ≈ $468/year. Over 5 years, ≈ $2,300 in fuel savings; more if gas prices rise or mileage is higher.

If you plan to keep the car longer, drive more miles, or value the added features, the EX-L Hybrid’s higher upfront cost can be easier to justify. Resale trends for hybrids have also been favorable in recent years.

Which One Should You Choose?

Different drivers value different things. Use the following guideposts to match a trim to your priorities.

Choose the Accord EX if the following resonates with you:

• You want the lowest purchase price and a conventional gas powertrain.
• A smaller touchscreen and cloth seats are fine for your needs.
• Your annual mileage is modest, so hybrid fuel savings won’t add up as quickly.

If those points describe your situation, the EX delivers the Accord’s fundamentals—space, safety tech, and comfort—at a compelling entry price.

Choose the Accord EX-L Hybrid if the following matters more:

• You prioritize fuel economy and a quieter, smoother drive, especially in city traffic.
• You want upgraded tech (12.3-inch display with wireless phone integration) and a more premium interior (leather, memory seats, power passenger seat).
• You plan to keep the car several years or drive higher-than-average miles, improving the payback on the hybrid.

If those priorities fit, the EX-L Hybrid provides the richer ownership experience and the best efficiency in the Accord lineup.

The Bottom Line

For most shoppers, the EX-L Hybrid is “better” because it combines standout fuel economy with a clear step up in tech and cabin quality. The EX remains an excellent value play if you want the Accord experience at the lowest price and prefer to skip hybrid complexity.

Summary

The Accord EX is the budget-friendly, gas-only entry with solid equipment. The EX-L (offered as EX-L Hybrid in the current lineup) adds a hybrid powertrain with much better mpg, a larger infotainment screen, leather seating, and added convenience features. Unless upfront price is the top priority, the EX-L Hybrid is the smarter, more satisfying choice for most buyers in 2025.

What is Honda EX vs EX-L?

The main difference between Honda’s EX and EX-L trim levels is that the EX-L offers more luxury and convenience features than the EX. Key EX-L upgrades typically include leather-trimmed seats, a power tailgate, a larger touchscreen, wireless phone charging, memory seating, fog lights, and front and rear parking sensors, while the EX is a well-equipped mid-range option without these premium additions. 
Here’s a breakdown of the common differences:
EX-L Adds to the EX: 

• Leather-Trimmed Interior: Leather-trimmed seats and often a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. 
• Power Tailgate: An easier-to-use power tailgate, sometimes with programmable height. 
• Upgraded Technology: A larger touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, a wireless charging pad, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. 
• Advanced Comfort: Driver’s seat memory settings and a power-adjustable passenger seat. 
• Enhanced Safety: Front and rear parking sensors for better maneuvering and low-speed braking control. 
• Improved Sound: A premium audio system with more speakers than the EX trim. 

Common Features on Both Trims: 

• Engine Performance: The same 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, producing 190 horsepower. 
• Exterior Design: LED headlights and roof rails. 
• Infotainment: A standard infotainment system with smartphone connectivity (wired in the EX, wired and wireless in the EX-L). 
• Safety Technology: A rearview camera and other advanced safety features. 

Which to Choose?

• Choose the EX if: . Opens in new tabYou want a well-equipped vehicle with a balance of features and a lower price point. 
• Choose the EX-L if: . Opens in new tabYou desire more premium comfort, convenience, and tech features, such as leather seats, a power tailgate, and advanced parking aids. 

Which is better, the Honda Accord EX or LX?

The main differences between a Honda Accord LX and an EX are the EX’s more premium features, such as a power moonroof, heated front seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a more advanced sound system, and expanded driver-assistance technologies compared to the LX trim. While both models offer the same base turbocharged engine and CVT transmission, the EX provides enhanced comfort, convenience, and technology, making it a higher-tier, more luxurious option.
 
Comfort & Convenience

• Seating: The LX has manual adjustable front seats, while the EX features a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support. 
• Heated Seats: The EX comes standard with heated front seats, which are not available on the LX. 
• Moonroof: The EX trim includes a one-touch power moonroof for an open-air experience, while the LX does not. 
• Wireless Charging: The EX offers a wireless phone charger, a feature absent on the LX. 

Technology & Infotainment

• Display: . Opens in new tabWhile both have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, the EX has a larger infotainment touchscreen compared to the LX. 
• Audio System: . Opens in new tabThe EX boasts a more powerful 180-watt, 8-speaker sound system, whereas the LX has a 160-watt, 4-speaker system. 

Safety & Driver Assist

• Honda Sensing: . Opens in new tabThe EX adds more advanced features to the standard Honda Sensing suite found on the LX, including systems like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. 
• Blind Spot Monitoring: . Opens in new tabThe EX includes the Blind Spot Information System with a Cross-Traffic Monitor, which is not on the LX. 

Appearance 

• Wheels: The EX features larger, more premium alloy wheels for a sportier stance.
• Exterior Accents: The EX may include additional chrome or other design elements for a more sophisticated appearance.

Performance 

• Engine: . Opens in new tabBoth models typically share the same 1.5L turbocharged engine producing 192 horsepower.
• Hybrid Option: . Opens in new tabThe EX is the trim that makes an available 2-motor hybrid powertrain with increased horsepower (212 hp) and fuel efficiency accessible.

Summary
The LX is a well-equipped, practical base model, while the EX adds key comfort, convenience, and technology features that enhance the driving experience. Your choice depends on your budget and how many of these premium upgrades are important to you.

What is the best model of the Honda Accord?

The “best” Honda Accord depends on whether you prefer a new or used model and what features are most important to you. For new models, 2025 and 2024 Accords are excellent choices, offering strong value, modern tech, and efficient hybrid options like the Sport Hybrid, while the top-tier Touring Hybrid provides a luxurious experience. For used models, the 2008-2012 eighth-generation Accord is highly recommended for its reliability and affordability, and the 2013-2017 ninth-generation models are praised for their refined performance and stylish updates. 
For New Honda Accords

• Best Overall Value: The 2024 and 2025 models offer a blend of stylish design, spacious interiors, and strong active safety technology, with the Sport Hybrid trim providing a great balance of features and fuel economy. 
• Top Luxury: The 2024 and 2025 Accord Touring Hybrid trims deliver the most luxurious experience in the lineup. 
• Consider the SE Trim: The 2025 model introduces the new SE trim, which is a well-equipped option with a sporty appearance. 

You can watch this video to see a review of the 2021 Honda Accord EX-L: 53sShooting CarsYouTube · Mar 14, 2025
For Used Honda Accords

• Eighth-Generation (2008-2012): These models are a top pick for buyers seeking affordability and dependability. They are known for their reliable performance, comfortable ride, and improved fuel efficiency compared to their predecessors. 
• Ninth-Generation (2013-2017): These Accords offer a more stylish exterior, a modernized interior with updated infotainment, and a more refined driving experience with improved handling. 
• Look for Specific Reliable Years: According to Consumer Reports and other sources, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, and 2016 are often cited for high reliability and owner satisfaction. 

Which is better, Exl or Touring?

Both EX-L and Touring are powered identically, but the Touring’s 19-inch alloy wheels (versus 18-inch on the EX-L) give it a slightly more imposing road stance.