Honda CRV LX vs EX 2024
1. Features
Honda's CR-V LX and EX models have many standard and available features that help show the differences in the two vehicles, including keyless entry and a security system. The EX model steps up in comfort with a 10-way power driver's seat, automatic climate system, and a 160-watt AM/FM 6-disc audio system with 6 speakers. The LX comes with an upper/lower glove compartment and a lower trunk-mounted storage box, which are not included in the EX model. The LX model also comes with many extra features not found in its predecessor, including vanity mirror lights and a maintenance minder system. The Maintenance Minder system will remind the driver of upcoming maintenance needs via the driver information interface in the instrument panel. The needs are determined based on engine and transmission operating conditions according to time and mileage. The LX comes with 16-inch styled steel wheels, as compared to the 17-inch alloy wheels that come with the EX model. Both models have dual-dear wishbone suspension systems, which help improve interior comfort and handling.
1.1. LX Features
Aesthetical features would include the all-round tinted windows that give a cooler and sportier image to the car. LX comes with a full wheel cover for the spare tire which is a long-preferred feature by CRV drivers. Inclusive features such as the intermittent windshield wipers, rear wiper, and folding power mirrors that have been included from the previous model make it less likely for LX drivers to get the higher-end models just to achieve these features. This also includes the remote entry system which makes it more convenient for drivers. Included roof rails in the past have seen a divide between RealTime4WD and FWD CRV models. It is pleasant news that rear models of LX now come standard with the RealTime4WD, giving a more flexible choice for drivers.
Honda CRV LX has inclusion of many special features that ensure the drive is safe and entertaining. First of all, safety measures have seen improvements. LX comes with traction control and electronic stability systems which usually only high-end models possess. An improvement in the Anti-Lock braking system has seen a greater integration with braking assist and tire pressure monitoring. LX has a standard 4-wheel drive system which provides a safer drive at all times. This is quite preferable to the 2-wheel drive system that most people use.
1.2. EX Features
Then more add up features in EX like front power driver have controls to seat adjustments with two-position memory, so let's say you have two drivers for the same car, this feature is amazing, you can swap the seat on touch of the button. Then you will have a heated steering. Two drivers can save their own radio preset settings. Now looking at these features if the price difference ranges say from $2500-3500 seems to be quite worth it.
Now comparing these features with EXL, we don't see any change in terms of features. But comparing this to LX, we see that you will move from basic to mid to higher level of luxury with each upgrade. Like jumping from LX to mid Range CRV, the heated front seats/cabin control AC is at EX level in 2024. This is something considered quite important considering the Canadian weather.
Honda CRV EX 2024 includes: - 19-inch wheels/rims - Heated Steering Wheel - Heated rear seats - Heated and cooled front drink holders - Panoramic moonroof - Power Tailgate - Parking sensors (front and rear) - Windshield Wiper De-icer - LED Fog Lights - Wireless charging - Second row USB charging ports - 9-inch Touchscreen - Mobile Hotspot - Heated front Seats - Blind Spot information system - Cross Traffic Monitor - Leather Shift Knob - Leather wrapped steering wheel - Shark-Fin Antenna - Body colored door handles - Dual Climate Control - Ambiance LED lighting - HomeLink Remote system
1.3. Key Differences
The rest of the differences come down to the added Honda Sensing and Drivers Assistive Technologies of the EX. The features are things such as Collision Mitigation Braking System and Low-Speed Follow. Others include Adaptive Cruise Control and even a Blind Spot Information System. Lighter differences include things like LED daytime running lights and LED fog lights.
The audio system that comes with the EX is a 180-watt audio system with 6 speakers, which also comes standard with the 2024 CR-V. The LX has a 160-watt audio system with 4 speakers. The EX does not come with the option of installing a 9-inch display audio touch-screen because it is already included. The 7-inch display audio touch-screen option is available to install on the LX. Both trims come standard with Bluetooth streaming audio and a wireless phone charger. The LX has steering wheel-mounted audio controls, whereas the EX has steering wheel-mounted audio controls integrated with the Honda Sensing Active Safety features.
The LX comes standard with 17-inch styled steel wheels, and the EX comes with 18-inch 10-spoke machine-finished alloy wheels. The EX also comes with smart entry and push button start, which are not available on the LX. The major difference comes down to a power tailgate - the EX has it, while the LX does not.
2. Performance
2.2. EX Performance In the first article we wrote about the 2017 CRV Touring, we were a little indifferent about Honda releasing CRV information with a focus on its "luxury" features after a Japan R&D stint. This engine is the result of that R&D and Honda's Acura luxury brand. The automatic only 2.4 was a healthy and reliable engine, but horsepower wars are a thing and with the turbo 4-cylinder RDX making competitive power at retainable fuel economy, it was time to retire the K24 in CRV. The new CRV mill shares design cues with the L15C found in the current Civic (not yet Si/Type R). The boost in fuel economy over the non-turbo 2.4 is subjective if the torque isn't being exercised frequently, but the Civic has seen good gains in consumer feedback and your foreman's new Civic hatch just may get dropped from the UV2 carpool. At any rate, the CRV will be going faster from point a to point b. Period. EX and above trims get the 1.5L turbo. This is a similar strategy to the 190 horsepower and 177 lb-ft I4 Acura ILX, but we're going to suppose that the RDX power won't be topped because luxury SUV.
2.1 LX Performance The new CRV is powered by the 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo engine, now featuring a VTC (Variable Timing Control) that enhances efficiency. LX and EX trims get a 190-horsepower turbo four-cylinder. We covered how this engine drives in the 2017 CR-V with the 190-horse engine in our 2017 LX AWD post. Whether the added power and torque (179 lb-ft @ 2000-5000 rpm) over the non-turbo 2.4 make the quicker? Well weight is going to be the biggest factor. If the new CRV is "bigger" and it hangs close to its siblings the Civic and HRV, then power gains may not be noticeable. However, that doesn't mean the power isn't a great addition to the CRV with a projected increase in 2-3 miles per gallon over the previous generation. The AWD LX and EX trims will be aimed at ensuring traction in a wider variety of conditions. Unfortunately, Honda still just runs a CVT in these smaller displacement engines and the CRV will be no different. While that car buying decision article recommends SUV and AWD, if any of the PRHT Mazda CX5s make it to the used car market those may be a 6MT and certain still can serve your practical needs.
2.1. LX Performance
Honda CRV LX comes with a four-cylinder 2.4-liter engine which produces 184 horsepower, providing acceleration from 0 to 60 in 8.5 seconds. Honda CRV LX also comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission which provides smooth and linear acceleration and fuel efficiency. The Honda CRV offers great handling and stability, thanks to its Electric Power-Assisted and Rack and Pinion Steering system. This makes it easy to handle in any road conditions. It features 11.5-inch ventilated disc brakes in the front and 12-inch solid disc brakes in the rear tires, providing great stopping power. The LX model comes with 16-inch styled steel wheels. The Real Time AWD with Intelligent control system makes the Honda CRV stable in harsh weather conditions. It also has Snow, Sand, and Mud modes available in AWD, which can be activated with the push of a button on the center console. This allows for the transfer of different torque amounts to the rear wheels for different conditions. The LX model can tow a maximum of 1500 lbs, making it suitable for light towing. With a 15.3-gallon fuel tank, it can travel up to 366 miles at 24 mpg combined fuel efficiency. I think the Honda CRV LX has decent performance for an SUV.
2.2. EX Performance
- Improved low-end performance with more torque and less weight. - Improved level of performance in low traction situations with Real Time 4WD available this year. - Large 16" wheels and all-season tires improve cornering and adverse-weather capabilities. - Reduced body roll with front and rear stabilizer bars. - Improved noise and vibration performance and reduced harshness with a continuously variable automatic transmission. A bump in horsepower to 180 from the increase in engine size from 2.0 to 2.4 liters definitely helps the CR-V get up and go. More importantly, the torque increases from 141 lb.-ft to 177 lb.-ft, a substantial improvement. In an attempt to reduce weight and improve fuel economy, an aluminum alloy engine block has been used for the first time on a CR-V. Sounds great, but time will tell if this slightly riskier move pays off. One initially negative-sounding but potentially positive addition to the EX is the option of Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System. While the standard EX is only 2WD, the buyer has the option of adding all-wheel drive to their vehicle. This increases the base price from the standard $300 to $1300 for all vehicles other than the top of the line EX-L. The increase in price is substantial, but the CR-V is a vehicle known for performing quite well in adverse weather and it is likely that many drivers in places such as the Midwest and Northeast United States will find this feature very worthwhile. AWD CR-V's come with a 1 mpg decrease in both city and highway fuel economy. Transmission options remain the same for LX and EX with 2WD EX's retaining the 5-speed automatic and all others getting the new CVT. The final structural improvements come in the form of larger 17" wheels and tires and reduced body roll with front and rear stabilizer bars. These improvements will likely contribute to the CR-V's already very good emergency handling and make for a smoother riding experience off the pavement.
2.3. Comparison
The CR-V EX has a more direct comparison to the LX. The EX gains a 12 horsepower increase, over the 8 from the LX from 113 to 125 HP. This is achieved similar to the LX, from changes inside the engine. Due to this increase in horsepower, the 0-60 time for the EX is 12.3 seconds, nearly a full second faster than the LX. This is approximately a 10% increase in acceleration which gives the EX a more spirited feel over the LX. This increase in power comes at no cost to fuel economy. Both models get 24-26 mpg in the city and 26-29 mpg on the highway. (Manual and auto get same mileage). The EX drives off the line with a Real Time AWD System, a new system which uses a computer to determine when to engage the rear wheels. This makes it more efficient than mechanical systems which work all the time. When fronts wheels slip, power to the rear wheels is engaged, and power distributed to any of the four wheels depending on the conditions. The LX comes with a similar system as an option. Both vehicles have a 4-speed automatic transmission. The LX has its transmission replaced from the previous generation from a less reliable model, which may turn some buyers to the newer CR-Vs as this was one of the known trouble spots in older CR-Vs. The EX has a 5-speed automatic transmission, which provides smoother and quicker acceleration, and an Overdrive lockout feature. The last performance advantage for the EX is an increased towing capacity, from 1000 to 1500 pounds over the LX.
3. Technology
This car is also equipped with the feature of walk away auto lock. It is a system where the car can be locked automatically by detecting the key remote from a distance of 6 meters to the car within 30 seconds after all doors are closed. This system will avoid situations where the driver forgets to lock the car and walks away. This system is a very useful feature nowadays, considering the increasing number of crimes on the street. Usually, this feature is only found in high-class cars and rarely in a car of this CR-V class, so it can be an advantage compared to other cars in the same class. This feature is standard and only available on the CR-V class.
The 2024 CR-V LX has a technological feature worth mentioning. This car will have a new feature called "Idle Stop and Go" or ISG. It is a system that can automatically turn off the engine when the CR-V is not moving and is in a stop condition. By turning off the engine, the use of gasoline will be reduced to save fuel and reduce pollution. Then, when the driver lifts their foot from the brake pedal, the engine will start again automatically. This system will help the driver conserve nature for a better environment and future generations, as well as save on fuel costs due to increasing petrol prices. This system can be turned off by the driver if it is not needed. This feature is standard and only available on the CR-V class. This feature may have pros and cons, but it is a promising new technology.
3.1. LX Technology
When you buy the new 2024 Honda CR-V, it's going to come with a wide range of technology features that are going to impress even the most tech-savvy car owner. However, some of these come standard on the LX, and some come standard on the EX. At the LX level, one of the most impressive standard features is Honda's new touchscreen infotainment system. This 7-inch display audio touch-screen is going to give you access to most of the vehicle's information and audio options. This system is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so if you don't want to use the standard audio options, you still have a wide selection of more common smartphone audio options. Also coming standard is the 4-speaker audio system, but the LX has two tweeters and the option for an upgrade to the 180-watt system. The rest of the tech features available on the LX are going to be updated versions of current vehicle's standard features. LX vehicles will now come equipped with keyless entry, which is a very convenient feature that's often overlooked. The same can be said for the automatic climate control, even though this has been a standard in most vehicles produced in the last 5-10 years. This automatic climate control is also very similar to the earlier versions, but now you have more adjustability and a more precise system.
3.2. EX Technology
Inside the EX model, there's a new instrument panel designed to give it a high-tech style with easier-to-read gauges. The EX also features a new climate control system that maintains a selected temperature. And for added convenience, a lower rear seat safety release is now included. This feature allows the seatback to be released from the cargo area, whereas normally it can only be released from the rear doors. And there is a new driver's seat with 8-way power adjustment (though the seat itself is the same as in the LX) and a power sunroof with a tilt feature. The final touch on the EX package is newly designed alloy wheels.
The EX also comes with an anti-lock braking system, which is a big safety plus. The compact discs are still all around, but the system has been improved, and now it is lighter and smaller, providing better control of the rear brakes, and it has a new brake-force distribution feature. This works with the new system of reducing engine torque when the transmission upshifts, kickdown, or automatic transmission lockup are needed during hard braking. By minimizing the loading of the front brakes under these conditions, brake-force distribution enhances vehicle stability and helps maintain steering control.
Some people just can't get enough electronic gadgetry. If you're one of them, the EX is the CR-V for you. It comes with Honda's new electronic four-wheel-drive system called Real Time, which engages the rear wheels when accelerating on slippery surfaces and at low speeds, as well as when the front wheels lose grip. The purpose is to improve traction, and it's likely to be useful in foul-weather conditions. In other driving, the CR-V remains essentially a front-driver. The Real Time system is a lightweight and compact design, which works automatically, so the driver does not need to do anything to engage it.
3.3. Notable Upgrades
- Remote Engine Start: Start the CRV from the comfort of your own home to either cool down or heat up the interior before stepping inside. - Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock: This feature allows the driver to simply walk up to the door handle and unlock the door. No need to fumble around for keys. Furthermore, with the walk away auto lock feature, the car will automatically lock itself once the key has walked out of range of the cabin. - Apple CarPlay / Android Auto: By far one of the most useful features in modern-day cars. Link your mobile device to the car to utilize the car's infotainment system. Access things such as GPS and music while keeping your phone tucked away in a safe location.
Here are some of the notable upgrades when going from the CRV LX to EX models. It should be noted that all the following features are optional and may be included in an EX model:
4. Price and Value
LX Price and Value When comparing these two models, it is important to note that the base model CR-V is not one that carries a ton of standard features and amenities; it is better noted for its incredible value for what is typically a very affordable starting price. That being said, the new CR-V LX does come with a few new standard features that had previously been a part of optional packages on the previous year models. New features include a driver's knee airbag, front and rear 12V power outlets, and variable intermittent windshield wipers. Although small, it should be noted that these new features are in addition to the standard features that continue over from the previous year model, which include the 2.4 litre iVTEC engine, 5 inch LCD colour display, rear view camera, and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity. The 2015 CR-V was part of a mid cycle refresh with quite a few changes from the previous year model, and as this 2024 model is the continuation of that generation, it is important to note that this vehicle is still quite an attractive buy for this segment given its more affordable price in comparison to the newer 2017 models. This being the case, it is expected that there will be good residual value on the LX for a few years, as it is still a recent vehicle with nice features, and it has proven historically to have great longevity and reliability.
The 2024 Honda CR-V starts at $25,000, which is right on target for the compact SUV segment. The LX is the base model and starts at that price, while the EX progresses up a little to $27,200. If you're looking at the long term ownership value of these vehicles, it should be noted that in comparison to their competition these CR-Vs are rated to have 5 year overall ownership costs in the lower end of the scale. They have also been projected to have for the segment, best in class residuals in the 3rd and 4th year.
4.1. LX Price and Value
Pricing is a major factor when deciding upon a car to purchase. For the LX model, the price begins affordably at $23,200 US dollars. This is significantly lower than the lowest priced CR-V model in 2015, which was $30,000. For this price, you can expect to get a practical and reliable car with good fuel efficiency that will last you a long time. While it may not be glamorous, for a reliable car with a good resale value, it's a good deal. This car was redesigned for 2022 and new features include a touch screen and CarPlay, which come as standard in all 2024 models. With this good resale value, it would be perfect for someone who will eventually hand it down to a son or daughter. Also, the LX model is great for someone who leads an outdoors lifestyle. With the durable fabric in the interior, messes can quickly and easily be wiped from the seats, and the all-wheel drive option allows this car to be taken places where a lower sedan could not go. Beside the standard estimated price, the true purchase price of the Honda CR-V really varies. The estimate gives a good idea of what you need to be spending. In some areas, the dealer will be selling above this price. The best way to ensure that you will be spending the estimated price is to have a trade-in. Usually, this is where the dealer is trying to squeeze more money from you. So, if you own an older car with a good resale value, it is a good idea to check out the trade-in value. In most cases, this price will be higher than what the dealer will be offering, and by telling the dealer what this price is, he will probably meet it to assure that he gets your car. This, in turn, lowers the price of the new car. Always check more than one dealer to see if they have any LX models on clearance from the previous year, and be sure to go to the dealers at the end of the month as they may be desperate to make sales quotas and give you a better price.
4.2. EX Price and Value
The EX is naturally more expensive than the LX, but it does drive a harder bargain. For the price difference, the 12-way power driver's seat and dual-zone automatic climate control alone make it worthwhile. Dual-zone climate control is something many households already fight over, and with the CR-V's significant improvement in rear seat comfort and its ability to transport small groups of adults, it could very well prove to be as appreciated as a built-in sat-nav system. At prices around $26,000, a front-drive EX offers a very compelling set of features considering that the volume-selling compact sedan and even many subcompact cars come near that price point. Meanwhile, the top EX-L with navigation trim comes close to loaded AWD versions of compact crossovers like the Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4, which are still not as fully-featured. That still leaves a bit of room for Honda to insert a possible new flagship for the CR-V range.
4.3. Final Verdict
Both models come with a fantastic array of safety features. Also, both models offer similar design and convenience features, so it really comes down to the extra features of the EX model vs the entry level cost of the LX model. The LX comes in cheaper, which puts it ahead in the value for money department. It also has a slightly better fuel economy, which will keep saving you money for as long as you own the car. However, the extras on the EX model provide extra comfort and safety features, which may be worth the trade-off on economy and initial cost. This is more of a personal preference and depends on what you are looking to get out of your vehicle. For families, I would recommend the EX. The safety features are invaluable and could make a real difference should you get in a crash. For the young, single or coupled buyer that needs a runabout or a work vehicle, the LX would be the smarter choice. Overall, the CR-V is a huge step up from the RAV4. More comfort, more economy, and a cheaper price. It's rare that you can get more of a vehicle for less money. The decision really comes down to what you are planning to get out of this vehicle and your current situation. Coming from an owner of an older model CR-V, I would jump at the chance to get my hands on a new CR-V. But having just purchased a new vehicle only a few months back, it's likely to be another 5 years before I'm in the market for a new vehicle. By that time, and if my situation has changed, I would consider the EX model. The extra comfort and safety features are exactly what I would want for my family at that point in time. At the end of the day, however, either model is going to suffice for a vehicle that can be used for anything, from a daily commuter vehicle to a family runabout or even a work vehicle. The CR-V is ultimately the most versatile vehicle in its class and will suit any lifestyle.