Honda HR-V LX vs EX: Which is the Better Option?

1. Introduction

If you're interested in buying a new car in the near future, you may want to focus on finding detailed information regarding the differences in these two options. While the similarities between the HR-V LX and EX are numerous, there are a number of features that set the two apart. Ultimately, the "better option" will come down to which of these distinguishing features are more or less important to you. In the following article, we will take a look at these differences from an unbiased standpoint to help you make the most informed decision possible. Terminology and features may differ slightly between countries, but the basic concept will remain the same. Keep in mind this comparison is being done between the 2WD LX and 2WD EX models. First introduced in 2015, the HR-V is Honda's most recent addition to the SUV family. As many would consider the HR-V to be an entry-level SUV, the base model LX is the lowest priced SUV in Honda's entire vehicle lineup, falling below the price of even the smallest car, the Fit. Step up from the LX and you have the EX and EX-L, both of which come only in an AWD option. Because of its low price and great gas mileage, the HR-V is a great option for a young individual or couple with no kids. As the car is still relatively new, the used car market is lacking in HR-Vs, but gives hope to demand and value retention over time. The EX model HR-V will be compared to the LX throughout this article. Stepping up to the EX will run you $2,300 more MSRP than the LX. This is a significant difference in price and begs the question: "Is it worth it?" or "What am I getting for an extra $2,300?" These are the exact questions an informed buyer should be asking themselves and hopes to have answered by the end of this comparison.

1.1. Overview of Honda HR-V LX

In order to save time, a dealership may have consumers choose between the two lowest trim levels when considering a new vehicle. Luckily, the Honda HR-V LX is no punishment to drive with its 141-horsepower engine and the choice of a six-speed manual or automatic CVT transmission. The compact-crossover-SUV market has exploded in recent years, and these two transmissions put the HR-V ahead of several other lower trim models that offer only a CVT. Although it is the base trim, the LX comes with features seen as standard in most modern vehicles such as a rearview camera and full power accessories. It also has a height adjustable driver seat, a second row magic seat that splits and folds for storage, and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and USB port. These features coupled with its great fuel efficiency make the HR-V LX an excellent value when considering a new vehicle. Although it may not be the most exciting car to drive, the HR-V has a solid reputation for being reliable and practical, and the LX is the epitome of this reputation offering an economical way to enter the SUV market.

1.2. Overview of Honda HR-V EX

- Honda HR-V EX vs LX - Features Exclusive from LX - Honda HR-V EX has a 7-inch touch screen while the LX has a 5-inch screen. Comment: With smartphones constantly getting bigger and easier to navigate, the 7-inch touch screen is going to become more and more of a standard and the 5-inch would be considered outdated. This makes the 7-inch a better look for the future, and more for your money in the present. - Honda HR-V EX has a Power Moonroof. The LX does not have this feature. Comment: Moonroofs can be a nice luxury to have in a vehicle. With resale value in mind, this feature will give the EX model that much more of a market, as vehicles with sunroofs/moonroofs are considered more attractive. This being an exclusive feature from the LX, is a good selling point for the EX. - 6-speaker stereo system, two front tweeters. Step up from the LX's 4-speaker system. Comment: While the LX's 4-speaker system would have logically been 6 or at least an add-on tweeters in order to showcase the best sound from MP3/WMA playback (which is available on all models). This being an exclusive feature from the LX, is a good selling point for the EX. - Honda HR-V EX has automatic climate control. The LX has manual. Comment: With today's fast-paced lifestyle, automatic climate control in vehicles is the way to go. Ease of access and changing climate settings as needed without having to take eyes off the road is a key advantage with this feature. Also having manual climate control, a feature that is considered to be more common in older, lower-grade vehicles, it may give the LX a bit of a negative image. This being an exclusive feature from the LX, is a good selling point for the EX. - Honda HR-V EX has Heated Front Seats. The LX does not have this feature. Comment: This is a luxury item by today's standard. Having this is a nice sell, especially for those in colder areas. This being an exclusive feature from the LX, is a good selling point for the EX.

The Honda HR-V EX is a full $3k higher than the LX, and various factors could determine whether or not it is worth the extra money to purchase the EX. Features that are separate from the LX will be listed first, while features that upgrade from the LX will be listed second. Included will be comments on these features.

Type: Subcompact Crossover Seating Capacity: 5 Fuel Economy (City): 28 Fuel Economy (Highway): 34 Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 Configurations (AWD Included): 2 Base Price: $19,215

2. Exterior Features

The LED lights for the EX models can be found in the headlights and taillights with the front turn signals being included in the headlight housing which are also LED. The LX models come with regular halogen bulbs in the headlights and incandescent bulbs in the tail lights. LED lights in any car are quite a bit brighter than regular bulbs and also last a lot longer, however it may not be a huge factor for someone to want to purchase a car solely based on LED lights.

There is only one simple difference between the two models with this feature, the LX comes with 17" alloy wheels, and the EX comes with 17" sport alloy wheels. Not a huge difference, however the regular alloy wheels are more of a simple design vs the more complex and aggressive sports alloy wheel. This move is probably Honda's way of offering a wheel exclusively to the EX model without having to outsource a wheel from another company and do a design collaboration.

This is probably one of the most noticeable differences between the two models. For the LX model, the overall shape and design of the car from the front, back, and sides are more rounded and bulbous. This may be a deciding factor for someone who doesn't particularly enjoy this style or just does not like the way it looks on the HR-V. The EX model however has a different body kit compared to the LX. The front and sides are the same as the LX, however the EX has a more aggressive front lift because of the grille, and the rear bumper with a silver and black diffuser really make the car look much sportier compared to the LX.

When it comes to the LX and EX SUVs, there are not too many differences between the two. However, the differences that are present are definitely visually noticeable and if the features are something heavily considered, then it is quite possible that it will sway a purchase one way or another. Below we will do a comparison on the exterior of the LX and EX models to show the differences.

2.1. Design and Styling

The HR-V has made its mark in the fast-growing market for subcompact crossovers with its attractive styling and abundant personality. Today's HR-V is as popular as ever, and the 2021 version offers the updated front end for a more modern look and expanded driver-assist features to up the appeal. The best-selling LX and top of the line EX are the focus in this article. The LX and EX share the same basic body and currently the only available paint choice is Crystal Black Pearl. The exterior of a vehicle can have a huge impact on your decision, but it can be argued that choosing an LX or EX based solely on looks would be a mistake budget-wise given their price difference. This is especially true for the HR-V emphasizing the need for the consumer to understand what else is offered for the extra money. That being said, the HR-V is a good-looking car so what's different? The LX has 17-inch silver painted alloy wheels while the EX has 17-inch sporty-looking machine-finished alloy wheels. This might be important to someone who wants to avoid the more costly machine-finished alloy repair and stick with the silver painted alloy. Otherwise, it is agreed upon that the machine-finished alloy wheels are the ones to have purely based on looks. In any case, both trims have wheel choices above the basic steel wheels with full covers found on most base trims of other cars in this segment.

2.2. Wheel Options

In conclusion, the EX model offers sporty, stylish 18-inch alloy wheels that are the same size as the upgraded LX model. Although it is only a slightly better option, the ride quality would likely be similar, and the larger wheel options do not affect the AWD drive system that the Honda HR-V has to offer. The wheel options for the LX or EX model are not a defining point for purchasing one model over the other.

Alloy wheels come with both LX and EX models. The LX model offers 17-inch alloy wheels at 215/55 R17. There is an option for 18-inch alloy wheels at 225/50 R18 for the LX model that is an additional extra. The EX model offers 18-inch alloy wheels and 225/50 R18. The two models offer very similar wheel types, but it is important to consider that the larger the wheel, the less tire there is to cushion the wheel. This can result in a rougher ride and possibly more damage to the wheel and/or tire because there is less rubber surrounding the wheel for protection.

2.3. LED Lighting

LED lighting is the latest technology in automotive lighting and the Honda HR-V comes with it depending on the model you choose. The LX comes with LED brake lights while the EX has LED brake lights and LED daytime running lights as well. LED lights are known for being much brighter than standard lights, and they also consume much less power. They also have a longer life and have a high color temperature which causes the lights to naturally look more like daylight. So with that being said, when you are driving the HR-V at night, other drivers on the road may find the HR-V with LED lights easier to see, and you can feel safer with a brighter view of the road with the LED lights. If you are a hiker or like to go camping you may prefer the EX LED lights because they will help illuminate more of the surrounding area of the car when it is parked. High color temperature lights are able to do this because it closely resembles daylight, and LED lights provide that. LED lights provide a big safety advantage to the driver when driving at any time because they consume less power and have a longer life than standard filament lights. This means that the lights will not die out on you when you need them the most, and will last the life of the car without needing to be replaced. All of these factors consider the LED lighting to be a good expense so that you can get the most out of your HR-V.

3. Interior Features

LX and EX also share a multifunctional center console with armrest and an adjustable tilting and telescoping steering column. These aren't exactly first things people think of in deciding on a car, but if you've ever failed to find a comfortable driving position with a flat butt from sitting directly on the seat (a reality for drivers with back/spine problems), these are big deals. The armrest boasts a storage compartment and a beverage holder, which is also a plus for many drivers. A lot of these are small, simple things, but in combination they can make a huge difference in everyday comfort for HR-V owners. Step up to the EX-L and you'll find an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat and leather-trimmed seating. The latter may be less subjectively comfortable–or perhaps the same subjective comfort just fancier with an added element of luxury–but the 8-way power seat is a boon for the adjustable seating position hunters.

In comparing the LX and EX HR-V trims, it's the features that are the same that tell the biggest story. It speaks to what Honda values for all of its HR-V customers, as these features are at every turn in the crossover's lineup. The first of those features is the HVAC system with air filtration. That's a feature that doesn't exactly scream glitz and glamour, but clean reception of heat and A/C without a cloud of wind-borne allergens is comfort at its most basic. Perspective buyers should note that outside of the features, this is also an automatic system in place of a more traditional 4-knob climate control interface.

Comfort in cars can be a very personal, subjective thing. What feels like plush and luxurious seating to one person might feel rock-hard and unsupportive to another. That said, the comfort and convenience features in the LX and EX trims are fairly straightforward and easy to compare.

3.1. Comfort and Convenience

Both the HR-V LX and EX are well-equipped and built on the same platform, so they are very much alike in theory. However, when we talk about comfort and convenience, the HR-V EX is equipped with a little more to make your driving or riding experience even more delightful. The steering wheel gets an upgrade to leather-wrapped and has internally mounted controls that VX and LX trims do not get. The EX also implements a much better automatic climate control system to replace the manual systems that are in the LX trim. This will allow a much easier way to control the temperature in the vehicle. Keyless entry is a convenient feature that Honda has implemented in pretty much all of their models. However, when it comes to keyless entry, the LX trim implements the standard "key in the door lock and manually open" method. This could be a little troublesome for some as they may be so used to simply pressing a button on the key or on the door handle itself. The EX, however, has a smart entry system which allows you to walk up to the door and simply pull the handle to open it. This is a big convenience as you will not have to fish for your keys to unlock the door. The smart entry system also includes a push-button start, so no more fumbling for the keys to turn the ignition on. This keyless entry and starting feature is also implemented into the EX-L Navi model.

3.2. Technology and Infotainment

The HR-V LX has a 160-watt audio system and little else in the way of technology. You get a multi-angle rearview camera, Bluetooth streaming audio, and a 5-inch color LCD screen in the center console. The next step up, the HR-V EX, comes with a lot more. The more advanced Display Audio system with a 7-inch touch-screen is a 180-watt, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD system that also includes HondaLink Next Generation. You even get Pandora radio and compatibility with SMS text messaging. But technology doesn't stop with the software. The EX also has a range of additional hardware: a push button start feature, Smart Entry, and the Honda Lane Watch. The Display Audio (which also has next generation HondaLink) system has different features, but it is not more advanced than what comes on the EX. The touch screen moves from 7 inches to 7.8 inches, but it cannot be controlled by touch. It is controlled by a lower display screen that is also compatible with a steering wheel mounted remote. This system also has SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio and Navigation. The better technology with the Audio and Audio Navigation model comes with additional features for some of the hardware - SMS text message and email functions with Voice Recognition, HD Digital Traffic, and HondaLink Assist.

3.3. Seating and Cargo Space

The Honda HR-V LX offers enough room to seat up to five passengers, while the EX model loses a seating position in order to accommodate the inclusion of a 7-inch Display Audio system. This infotainment system is exclusive to the EX model and includes touch screen capabilities, which have been noted to be rather clumsily implemented despite the overall ease of use of the system. The touch screen display will replace the LX model's standard HVAC and audio control units, which are replaced with a single/dual zone automatic climate control system and a 7-inch touch screen control panel. While an infotainment system is important, one must decide how much said system will interfere with the day-to-day use of the vehicle. Magic Seat functionality is a feature unique to the HR-V, allowing for a multitude of seating and cargo arrangements. This is made possible due to the 2nd-Row Magic Seat, which enables the rear seat to both fold and provide additional vertical storage for taller items. With the seats folded down, the EX and LX models allow for 55.9 and 58.8 cubic feet of cargo space respectively, with the EX model inching ahead due to its overall larger exterior/interior dimensions. This setup allows the HR-V to have a great deal of cargo space when compared to competitors, making it an attractive option for those who require transport of a large number of items.

3.4. Safety Features

At this point, I think it's fair to say that the 2019 Honda HR-V models will feature the Honda Sensing package. There has been no reason to believe that this technology will be left out of any new Honda model for several years now. Currently, the Honda Sensing package is available on any 2018 HR-V trim level. This is good news for those who are looking to purchase the base model HR-V. This was not the case in previous model years. The feature was only available to those who are willing to spend a little extra for the EX-L Navi (now called the Touring) model. The only downside is that the MSRP for the 2018 HR-V LX with AWD and Honda Sensing is $23,300. It's uncertain if the addition of Honda Sensing to the HR-V LX model will increase the price. This could price some potential buyers out of the market for the newest HR-V model. The Honda Sensing technology is a great safety feature that uses the help of two small cameras and a radar behind the rearview mirror to provide the driver with an extra set of eyes on the road. This technology includes multiple safety features such as the Collision Mitigation Braking System that will help bring the vehicle to a stop when there is an unavoidable collision with a vehicle detected in front of you. Adaptive Cruise Control helps you maintain a constant following interval behind the detected vehicle for freeway driving. And Lane Keeping Assist, which will adjust steering to bring the vehicle back to the center of a detected lane. These are just a few examples of how this technology can significantly reduce the likelihood or severity of an accident. Anyone who plans on using this vehicle as a family vehicle will greatly appreciate these features and how they will help keep their loved ones safe. AWD is an additional $1,300 for any HR-V model. This is a great feature that adds a good amount of value to the HR-V. Whether it's for driving in the winter or taking your HR-V off-road, AWD can provide an extra peace of mind when it comes to navigating in various different and unfavorable driving conditions. Given that the LX model with AWD already starts at a higher price point and the fact that the AWD addition is the same cost as any other HR-V model, it may make more fiscal sense for potential buyers to consider a different HR-V model other than the LX if they are set on having AWD.

4. Performance and Engine Options

Without taking torque into consideration, the HR-V has more torque and engine displacement than any vehicle in its class, including the Nissan Juke, Chevy Trax, and Jeep Renegade. However, the HR-V is also heavier than these vehicles and the added weight increases the load on the engine. Real-world experience may explain that the HR-V feels practically no different in acceleration and power than any of the aforementioned vehicles. In contrast to the similar engine options, the HR-V feels much different with the CVT compared to models of the competitor brands which utilize traditional geared automatic transmissions. Unfortunately, the different feel isn't always a positive notion. Buyers accustomed to the power and response of a traditional automatic may find the CVT to be lackluster in acceleration and towing. On the other hand, those less accustomed to traditional automatics may not notice a difference or even prefer the CVT due to the fact that it is much less jolty and provides a smooth acceleration through the RPM range. Coming out relatively on top of the competition, the HR-V still has favorable fuel efficiency. However, the small margin in fuel efficiency between 2WD and AWD seems to contradict the notion that the AWD system in the HR-V is similar to Honda's Real Time 4WD used in CRVs and elements of the past which only engages the rear wheels when front wheel slip is detected.

Yep, engine specs, transmission options, and fuel efficiency - three of the most important areas to compare between the models. Let's get into it! The engine specifications for the LX and EX are identical; both boast inline 4 cylinder engines with 16 valves, 141 lbs of torque at 4200 RPM, and 105.1 cu in of displacement. There is a slight variance in horsepower due to differing PGM-FI: the LX has 127 HP and the EX has just 1 more at 128 HP. Both models come standard with a 5-speed manual transmission and have the option to upgrade to a 5-speed automatic. The fuel efficiency ranges around 28/34 city/hwy MPG for the LX with 2WD and slightly less for the 4WD option. The EX boasts identical fuel efficiency to the LX at 2WD, but a significant improvement with 4WD; both models are estimated around 25/31 city/hwy MPG. So how does all this mumbo-jumbo benefit you as a potential HR-V owner?

4.1. Engine Specifications

Let's have a more specific look at the engine specifications in our today's contender Honda HR-V LX vs. Honda HR-V EX. In the lower range model, you will see the existence of an inline-4 engine that can burst up to 141 horsepower, further equipped with various features such as drive-by-wire, Eco Assist, and hill start assist. Observing the power standard for modern SUVs, the power standard actually is decent enough. On the other hand, Honda HR-V EX is equipped with a slightly stronger i-VTEC inline-4 engine with higher power up to 180 horsepower and 6-speed manual transmission, which is rarely seen in any SUV models. Honda HR-V EX only offers Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) as automatic transmission, an optional feature that is available to both LX and EX models. From the standard engine feature, this time Honda HR-V EX is the winner because the horsepower and manual transmission are hard to find in any SUV model, let alone in the highest trim level.

4.2. Transmission Options

The Honda HR-V LX is fitted with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), sending power to the front wheels exclusively. Front-wheel-drive is your only option with the LX, which returns 27 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The pertinent thing to you would be the HR-V can be had with all-wheel-drive but the LX is not the trim to get your hands on it (more on that in a minute). The HR-V EX provides the same economy in terms of mpg with front-wheel-drive, but here is where the differences come into play. The EX can be had in either FWD or AWD configuration. Unfortunately for stickshift enthusiasts, while an AWD EX model can be had with a 6-speed manual transmission, the only way to slap some extra driven wheels onto an LX or EX is by way of the CVT. Now here's where things get a little strange. Despite the heavier weight of an AWD model, the AWD-equipped HR-Vs (now remember the LX is not what you'd consider) equipped with a CVT achieve identical fuel economy ratings as their front-wheel-drive counterparts. How does Honda trick physics? The CVT transmissions send power to the rear wheels of the AWD models via a driveshaft, exclusive to a pinion style rear differential. This setup allows the vehicle to only send power to the rear wheels when slippage is detected. Honda figures that in many driving scenarios, particularly in city and highway driving, the HR-V can get away with exclusively front-wheel-drive, and will inherently save fuel by doing so. The implementation of a real-time AWD system has allowed Honda to avoid the economy compromises typically associated with AWD vehicles. This is actually the first time a Honda vehicle has utilized this type of AWD system.

4.3. Fuel Efficiency

The HR-V is a new market entry for Honda on some levels. It's a subcompact vehicle, but smaller than the firm's most visible subcompact, the Civic, so Honda is targeting the HR-V at younger people who might want the flexibility and interior space of the CR-V yet in a smaller package. And speaking of size, the HR-V Elite is some 400mm shorter than the CR-V. Honda is also targeting owners of small cars who are stepping up to their first compact SUV. This could include empty nesters transitioning out of the sports car or coupe they've owned for 20 years. With two-thirds of small car sales choosing auto transmission, and niche groups like that too, the HR-V needed an auto option and it's the CVT. Now we're usually not fans of CVT auto transmissions, but Honda is one of the few companies that have made them bearable, even quite good. Unfortunately though there is no half way option between VTi and VTi-S. Step up to the VTi-S and you're paying an additional $2,000 over the VTi, but do gain a few goodies. The auto transmission contradicts the general rule that if you mate a small engine to an auto transmission, you can get a lethargic result. With this combo the HR-V VTi-S has a reasonable spring in its step. However with a kerb weight of around 1.3 tonnes to pull and fuel economy being a consideration for small SUV buyers, the VTi-S powertrain match isn't a bad effort. Fuel efficiency is rated at 6.6 L/100 km, which isn't too much worse than the Civic. The range topping HR-V VTi-L is auto only, with the RS is exclusively AWD with auto only.