2025 Honda CR-V LX Vs. EX (Which and Why?)

When shopping for a Honda CR-V on a budget, you might be torn between the LX and EX trims.

The LX and EX trims are popular for budget-conscious buyers as the two most affordable options in the CR-V lineup. With a price difference of about $2,000, the question is whether the added features in the EX are worth the extra cost or if sticking with the LX is the smarter choice to save money. This guide will help you decide.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the similarities and differences between these two trims, covering features, pricing, design, and more.

By the end, you’ll clearly understand which trim best fits your needs and budget.

Because recent CR-V models have only minor differences, this guide is also relevant for both the 2023 and 2024 Honda CR-V model years.

Key Differences

Before diving into each feature, let’s start with a quick overview of the key differences between the CR-V LX and EX trims.

Features	LX	EX
Pricing (as of 2025)	$30,100	$32,350
Wheels	17 in Steel with Covers	18 in Silver-Painted Alloys
Passenger Volume	106.0 cu ft	103.5 cu ft
One-Touch Power Moonroof	NA	Available
Automatic Climate Control System	Single Zone	Dual Zone
Driver’s Seat with Power Adjustment	NA	Available
Heated Front Seats	NA	Available
USB-C Charging Port	NA	3 Ports
Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock	NA	Available
Remote Engine Start with Climate Control	NA	Available
Blind Spot Information System	NA	Available

Exterior

Let’s kick off the CR-V LX vs. EX comparison by looking at the exterior. Here’s how the two trims differ and what they have in common on the outside.

Similarities

The first similarity is in their size, as the Honda CR-V LX and EX share the exact same exterior dimensions, as shown below.

• Wheelbase: 106.3 in
• Overall Length/Width: 184.8 in / 73.5 in
• Height (2WD/AWD): 66.2 in / 66.5 in
• Track (Front/Rear) (2WD): 63.4 in / 64.1 in
• Track (Front/Rear) (AWD): 63.3 in / 63.9 in
• Ground Clearance (2WD/AWD): 7.8 in / 8.2 in

Both the LX and EX trims come equipped with the following exterior features:

• 8 color options
• LED Taillights
• LED Headlights with Auto-On/Off
• Active Shutter Grille
• Hood Damper
• Reverse-Linked Intermittent Rear Window Wiper w/ Heated
• Remote Entry System
• Body-Colored Door Handles
• Security System
• Variable Intermittent Windshield Wipers
• Rear Privacy Glass

Differences

Now, let’s compare the exterior differences between these two CR-V trims.

Wheels

One of the most noticeable differences between the CR-V LX and EX, which could be a deciding factor for some buyers, is the wheels.

• LX: 17 inches Steel wheels with Cover
• EX: 18 inches Silver Painted Alloy Wheels

I have to admit, the steel wheels on the LX are not very appealing. The steel beneath the cover is quite noticeable up close, making this my least favorite feature of the CR-V LX. The EX’s alloy wheels significantly upgrade the LX’s steel wheels.

If you value the size, design, and material of a vehicle’s wheels, choosing the LX might mean spending more later on upgrades. With the EX trim, these upgrades come standard.

Roofline Spoiler

There are also differences in the roofline spoiler between these trims. Both the LX and EX come with a roofline spoiler that includes an integrated brake light.

However, the LX’s spoiler is black, regardless of the body color you choose. In contrast, the EX’s roofline spoiler matches the body color.

Though it’s a small difference, it has a noticeable impact on the vehicle’s overall look. Personally, I find the contrasting black spoiler on the LX less visually appealing compared to the colour-matched option on the EX.

Power Side Mirrors

Both trims have power side mirrors with integrated LED turn indicators. However, the EX trim includes an additional heated feature.

The heating function on the side mirrors is especially useful for winter driving. It keeps the mirrors clear, ensuring good visibility without manually wiping them.

Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock

The two trims also differ in the smart entry feature.

The CR-V EX includes Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock, a feature unavailable on the LX.

This feature adds convenience by automatically unlocking and locking your vehicle, making it easy to enter and secure your car effortlessly.

One-Touch Power Moonroof

The moonroof, a feature many people enjoy, allows fresh air into the cabin without opening the windows.

If you want a moonroof on your CR-V, you’ll need to choose at least the EX trim, as the LX does not include this feature.

Interior

Similarities

In terms of the interior, the CR-V LX and EX share a few similarities.

• Seat Material (Cloth/fabric)
• Seat capacity
• Cargo volume
• Legroom
• Hiproom
• Shoulder room

Differences

Interestingly, there are some surprising differences in the interiors of the LX and EX trims. Here they are:

Headroom

The headroom in the CR-V LX is approximately 2 inches higher than in the EX. This difference may be attributed to the absence of a moonroof in the LX trim, which can benefit taller individuals.

Passenger Volume

As a result of the higher headroom from not having a moonroof, the CR-V LX also offers slightly more passenger volume, measuring 106.0 cubic feet compared to 103.5 cubic feet in the EX.

Interior Color Option

Both trims feature cloth seating materials. You won’t find leather seats unless you upgrade to the EX-L trim or higher.

However, the CR-V EX offers additional color choices. While the LX is available only in black, the EX includes gray as an extra option. Personally, I would stick with black, but if you prefer gray for your seats, it’s available.

Comfort & Convenience Features

As the two lowest trims, the LX and EX are still equipped with a generous array of comfort and convenience features. However, there are still some key similarities and differences between them.

Let’s begin with the similarities.

Similarities

Here are the comfort & convenience features shared between both models:

• Power Door and Tailgate Locks
• Auto-Up/Down Power Windows
• Push Start Button
• Cruise Control
• One-Touch Turn Indicators
• Tilt and Telescopic Steering
• Push-Open Fuel Door w/ Capless Fuel Filler
• Armrest w/ Storage
• Sliding Sunvisors
• Cup Holders (front & rear)
• Lockable Glove Compartment
• Door-Pocket Storage Bins
• LED Map Lights
• Ambient Lighting
• LED Cargo Area Lights
• Floor Mats
• Rear-Seat Center Armrest
• Driver-Side Garment Hook
• Heater Ducts (rear seat)
• Rear-Window Defroster
• Cargo Area Tie-Down Anchors
• Illuminated Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls
• Front Passenger’s Seatback Pocket

Differences

There are just two differences between the trims in terms of comfort and convenience features.

First, the Honda CR-V EX comes with a dual-zone automatic climate control system, while the CR-V LX has single-zone climate control.

Additionally, the vanity mirrors on the CR-V EX are equipped with LED lighting for added illumination, a simple feature not available on the LX.

SEATING

Both models offer nearly identical seating, with a capacity of five seats, the same cloth material, and similar size specifications. However, there are still a few differences worth noting.

Similarities

The two trims share the following specifications and seating features:

• Adjustable Front Seat-Belt Anchors
• Reclining, Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seatback
• Head Restraints at all Seating Positions
• 5-Seating Capacity

Differences

Some seating differences between the two trims are found in the available features.

In the Honda CR-V EX, the driver’s seat offers a 10-way power adjustment, including 2-way power lumbar support. This feature is not available on the CR-V LX, which only has manual height adjustment.

Additionally, the front seats in the CR-V EX include a heating feature, which is especially valuable during winter. Unfortunately, this feature is not available in the CR-V LX.

Audio & Connectivity

Both trims come with a complete audio system and connectivity options. However, there are a few differences between them.

Similarities

When it comes to the Audio & Connectivity of the CR-V, the LX and EX share a lot of similarities.

• 7-Inch Touch-Screen
• 7.0-In Digital Instrument Cluster (Speedometer)
• Bluetooth Handsfreelink
• Bluetooth Streaming Audio
• Radio Data System
• Sms Text Message Function
• Speed-Sensitive Volume Compensation
• 2.5-Amp USB Audio Interface at the Front Console
• 12-Volt Power Outlet (Front Console & Cargo Area)
• Hondalink Compatibility
• Apple Carplay Compatibility
• Android Auto Compatibility

Differences

There are only two differences between the trims in terms of audio and connectivity, but these differences are quite significant.

First, the audio system in the CR-V EX is superior, featuring six speakers with a total output of 240 watts, while the LX only has four speakers with a maximum output of 160 watts. If you value quality audio, this is a feature worth considering.

The second difference is in charging ports. The CR-V LX does not include any charging ports, so you would need to buy adapters to charge your smartphone in the car. On the other hand, the EX trim comes with three USB-C charging ports: one in the front console and two in the second row.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Both trims are equipped with Honda Sensing, a safety driving assist system developed by Honda.

This system includes various technologies such as the Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, and more.

Driver-assist features like Auto High-Beam Headlights and a Rear Seat Reminder are also available on both the CR-V LX and EX.

Both trims include standard active safety features like Vehicle Stability Assist, a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, Electronic Brake Distribution, ABS, TPMS, and Daytime Running Lights. Passive safety features, such as SRS airbags, LATCH, and rear side airbags for passengers, are also included.

The main difference between the two trims lies in the Blind Spot Information System (BSI) and Cross Traffic Monitor, which are not available on the CR-V LX. Otherwise, both trims offer the same safety systems and driver-assistance features.

Under The Hood

I can confidently say that there are no differences at all under the hood. Both trims share the same engine, drivetrain, transmission, and technology.

Both the LX and EX are equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque.

Additionally, both trims feature a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with front-wheel drive as standard, and an all-wheel drive option is available for an additional $1,500.

Price & Value

As we all know, price is an important factor when considering both models.

Here are the prices for the two trim levels:

• LX: $30,100
• EX: $32,350

Please note that these prices do not include tax, license, registration, or the $1,350 destination charge.

The price difference between the two trims is $2,250. For that additional cost, you get:

• Larger, nicer, higher-quality wheels
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Remote engine start with climate control
• Heated front seats
• Better audio quality
• Moonroof
• 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with 2-way power lumbar support
• USB-C charging ports
• Blind Spot Information System (BSI)
• Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock

As you can see, with such a small price difference, the CR-V EX offers greater value by providing more features and amenities, making the additional $2,250 a worthwhile investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Should You Buy?

Considering the price difference of under $2,500, the added features and equipment in the EX trim are quite substantial, making the upgrade from the LX worthwhile.

Key features like upgraded wheels, the Blind Spot Information System (BSI), dual-zone automatic climate control, moonroof, and additional charging ports all contribute to the value of spending the extra $2,250.

However, the CR-V LX does have its own advantage: more headroom. Some people may prefer the extra space and choose to skip the sunroof for this reason.

Personally, I would still choose the EX. The price difference isn’t overwhelming, and features like the moonroof, remote start, and dual-zone climate control are strong incentives for the upgrade.

While you might improve the wheels and audio with aftermarket options, features like dual-zone climate control, a moonroof, and smart remote capabilities are challenging to add later on.

So, after reading this detailed comparison of the Honda CR-V LX vs. EX, which model would you choose for your garage? Let me know in the comments!