Honda CR-V LX vs EX – The Ultimate Comparison

There are many factors to consider when choosing a car, and it can be tough to decide which model is suitable for you. If you’re considering a Honda CR-V, you may wonder whether to choose the LX or the EX trim levels.

Both models have pros and cons, so it’s important to take a closer look at each of these Honda CR-V models and see which trim level you should purchase.

The Honda CR-V LX trim is more affordable but has fewer standard features. On the other hand, the Honda CR-V EX is more expensive but includes many more amenities.

The CR-V EX is the way to go if you’re looking for luxury. But if you’re on a budget, the CR-V LX may be a better choice. Whichever model you choose, you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality car.

Choosing between two models can seem complicated, especially when they have so much in common! However, to make things easier, we will take a detailed look at each of these models and compare them in terms of their pricing, features, and performance to clarify what makes each stand out!

Before we get to the comparison it should be noted that both of these are the same with regular trims as well as hybrid trims. So if you get a CR-V hybrid version you can choose from each of these trim levels just as you would with getting a non-hybrid version of these crossover SUVs.

This is true no matter which model year of the CR-V you purchase as well. The only thing that getting a hybrid does is increase the fuel efficiency of the vehicle.

Keep reading to learn more about the Honda CR-V!

Comparing the Honda CR-V LX vs EX: Full Trim Guide

As potential car buyers, it can be challenging to decide between the Honda CR-V LX and EX models. Both offer a sleek design, excellent EPA Mileage Ratings, and plenty of space for passengers and cargo. They also both have all of the safety features on them that Honda offers such as:

• Lane keeping assist system
• Blind spot information system
• Intelligent control system
• Lane departure warning
• Rear view camera
• Auto-On headlights
• Vehicle stability assist™
• Forward collision warning

All of these key features (and many more) come standard on both Honda CR-V models so you aren’t sacrificing any safety features despite the price changes and other features configuration that are different between the two.

But when doing a side-by-side comparison it comes down to the nitty-gritty details. Some key differences set these two compact SUV models apart.

Below I will cover three things you should look at for comparison purposes. These are all important factors whether you plan on using the CR-V for your daily drive or are headed out on the open road.

It should be noted before diving into the following trim comparison guide that the Honda LX is the base trim. So you shouldn’t expect as many luxury amenities on it as you will find on the more expensive EX trim.

It is also super easy to test drive both of these models at your local Honda dealer so you can see if you need all of the extra LX features (and the increase in price that goes with them).

Deciding which CR-V trim is best for you can be difficult but hopefully I will make it a little bit easier with the information below.

CR-V LX VS. CR-V EX Price

The answer is pretty straightforward when looking at each vehicle’s price. The LX model has an MSRP of $25,050, while the EX starts at $27,750. The reason for this added expense is that the EX model has additional features, such as a remote engine start and a power tailgate.

Since the LX is the base model of the CR-V you will miss out on some of the more advanced features that will be available on the EX version of the Honda CR-V.

For some buyers, this cost can be well worth the monetary value. However, you will have to decide if those features add enough value to decide which model to opt for. If you are on a budget, you may opt for the LX model, whereas the EX model has a lot more that it brings to the table at an added cost.

Dealer prices will vary depending on where you are located (at least in the United States) so be sure and contact your local Honda dealership to get the exact price of each CR-V trim level. Be sure and ask about additional charges that the dealership might tack on to the newer models as well such as :

• Destination charge
• Market adjustment (based on their current inventory)
• Documentation fee
• Extended warranty
• Tire and wheel protection
• Undercarriage protection
• Dealer preparation fee
• Vin etching fee

Of course, Honda also has new offers every so often that will make certain models more affordable than at other times. So be sure to contact your local dealership to see if they have any incentives. This time-saving information could help you decide on which CR-V model you prefer before you even get to the lot.

The dealership should also be able to give you the current vehicle information of what models they have on the lot or how long it will take to get your preferred CR-V model ordered and delivered to your zip code.

CR-V LX VS. CR-V EX Features

For the Honda CR-V LX,  you can expect to find features such as an automatic climate control system (heat and air conditioning), a rearview camera, and the Honda Sensing® suite of driver-assistive technology. 

Here are some additional features of the Honda CR-V LX:

• Cruise Control
• Bluetooth capabilities
• 5-inch LCD screen
• Sound System with four speakers
• USB port for charging any device
• 17-inch alloy wheels
• LED running lights
• Rear privacy glass
• In-dash navigation
• Multi-functional center console storage

The EX model bumps up the features of the Honda CR-V with a sunroof, leather seats, and an 8-way power driver’s seat. 

There are also some other features you should consider when looking at this particular model:

• Upgraded camera for backing up
• Larger, touch-screen enabled 7-inch LED screen
• HondaLink capabilities
• Access to Radio and Apple Carplay /Android Auto (makes making a phone call or sending a text message as easy as talking)
• Fog lights
• Side view mirrors with heating capabilities
• 18-inch wheels
• 160-watt amp and six-speaker sound system (a considerably better sound system)
• Hands-free power tailgate

As you can see, while the Honda CR-V LX has all the basic capabilities you would need in a car, the main difference is that the Honda CR-V LX model takes those features to the next level for added comfort and a luxurious experience.

CR-V LX VS. CR-V EX Performance

Both the Honda CR-V LX and EX models offer a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine capable of producing 184 horsepower (HP) and 179 lb-ft of torque. The LX model offers front-wheel drive (FWD), while the EX model adds an option for all-wheel drive (real time AWD is offered on the Touring trim level).

When it comes to fuel economy, both models offer similar ratings. The LX model gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the EX model gets slightly better ratings with 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

If you use Honda’s eco assist™ system you will get better gas mileage than when not using it.

In terms of driving performance, both models offer a smooth and comfortable ride (in part due to their continuously variable transmission), with the EX model offering slightly better handling capabilities due to its all-wheel drive option.

Why You May Consider Honda CR-V LX Over EX

After looking through a comparison of the two cars, here’s why you may consider the Honda CR-V LX over the EX:

1. The LX has a lower starting price, making it a more budget-friendly option.
2. It has the same engine and horsepower as the EX, so you’re not sacrificing power for the lower price.
3. The LX has a slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 28 city / 34 highway mpg rating compared to the EX’s 26 city/32 highway mpg rating.
4. It has many of the same features as the EX, such as a multi-angle rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and remote entry.

While the EX does have some added features, such as a sunroof and push-button start, the LX still offers excellent value for its lower price point. All things considered, your choice of the model of the car comes down to your personal preferences and budget.

Why You May Consider Honda CR-V EX Over LX

At the same time, there are plenty of reasons why someone would be willing to pay more upfront to get the Honda CR-V EX over the LX model. Here are some of the reasons you should consider if you are leaning toward that choice:

1. The EX has a more sleek and modern design, with exterior features such as LED headlights and a one-touch power moonroof.
2. It has added convenience features such as a hands-free access power tailgate and push-button start.
3. The EX also offers more advanced technology, such as an 8-inch display audio touch-screen and HondaLink smartphone integration.
4. Overall, the EX offers a more luxurious driving experience with its added features and technology.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preferences and what you’re willing to pay for in a car. Both the LX and EX offer great value, but the EX provides a bit more in terms of style and technology. It all depends on what matters most to you in a vehicle.

Conclusion

When comparing the Honda CR-V LX and EX models, it’s important to consider your budget and what features are most important to you. The LX offers great value for its lower starting price, while the EX adds more convenience and technology features.

At the end of the day, the right car for you will depend on what you prefer and what you need from the vehicle.

If you want to go right in the middle of these two trims you could also consider the Honda CR-V Special Edition. Some of the CR-V’s Special Edition features include:

• Dual-zone climate control
• Heated front seats
• A larger touchscreen
• Push button start
• Remote start
• Heated mirrors
• and more

If you really want to upgrade to a nicer package you can get the CR-V EX-L or the CR-V Touring. You will spend more to upgrade to those trim levels but you get a lot of extra tech and features that you didn’t have before.