Honda HRV LX vs EX

1. Features

EX Features Honda HRV EX comes with greater specifications compared to the LX model. Although visually both exteriors and interiors look similar compared to the LX model, the differences lie in the functions and convenience. The key features include Smart Entry with a push start button. This is a great feature for people who always have trouble digging for car keys in their purse. It also comes with programmable electric door lock settings, automatic climate control with an electrostatic touch-screen, side mirror turn signals, and a lot more. One particularly noticeable difference is that it's a CVT model (with paddle shifters) equipped with Honda LANEWATCH. It's a blind spot display function that uses a small camera within the passenger side mirror when the driver signals right for a lane change. (POSTERS)

Honda HRV LX is the base model and it comes with a standard list of specifications, including remote entry, a reverse camera with a standard multimedia display screen. The "Magic Seat" that can adjust accordingly for tall items or for a higher rear floor is also standard. It also comes with 17" alloy wheels, 60/40 rear seats, and a knee airbag. It also features ECON mode for fuel conservation, an electric parking brake with automatic brake hold, Hill Start Assist, an Anti-lock braking system (ABS), and electronic brake-force distribution.

1.1. LX Features

Led brake lights, multi-reflective halogen headlights, lower body kit, rear stabilizer, 17" alloy wheels are all cosmetic features that the LX has compared to higher models. Remote key entry is not a huge deal, but many owners will argue that this is a missing feature since perhaps 1999 on a Honda. The LX has a 160-Watt 4-speaker audio system, 5" color LCD screen, one front (dash) USB plug and a single automatic climate control knob. The 4-speaker audio system on the LX is worse than previous base model stereos. From 2001-2011 the base model 4-speaker audio systems were pretty good, 2001-2005 certainly a lot better than the LX system. The LX stereo is simple yet somehow confusing. You have to press audio, then source, to change from radio to CD to auxiliary. Where they really missed out is the lack of Bluetooth audio streaming and phone. There is a redundant steering wheel audio key which could have potentially been used for phone and Bluetooth audio control. The LX model comes standard with a rearview mirror but does not have the multi-angle rearview camera on any model. The lack of a camera in 2013 is somewhat unsettling as most new car features seem to take away the drivers control of the car. Honda's reasoning for this may be to promote the Honda Lane-watch blind spot display which we'll get to later. The LX model is equipped with heated front seats (as Canada's top trim level) and has all heated seat wiring and components identical to EX model. Even though Canadian EX models have a 6-way power adjustable driver seat, the LX driver seat is 4-way power adjustable and still has the same functionality and wiring as the EX. Upper LX/EX and lower Honda models with a 2nd level trim seem to have simple missing features such as a center console storage armrest, or even a 2nd vanity mirror. The 2016 Honda CRV LX center console certainly looks incomplete compared to the EX model and is almost identical to the 2016 HRV center console.

1.2. EX Features

The LX is a nice car but the features on the EX make it a much better purchase. If you do want the LX, I would suggest getting the heated seats for $475 and some nice 16" alloy wheels for $1400 to increase the appearance and function of the LX. That would bring the price up to $21,025 if you have FWD and $21,325 if you want AWD. That being said, the EX would still be better value and it’s always nice to have a sunroof come standard in case you want some fresh air without opening all of your windows. Overall, I would suggest the HRV mainly to people who are looking for an AWD vehicle since it comes with all the features from the 2WD models and more. Unfortunately, the FWD LX doesn’t come with an option to add AWD and the FWD EX is slightly cheaper. (Goretti et al., 2022)

215/55R18 tires with black painted alloy wheels, roof rails, fog lights, rear privacy glass, a six-speaker sound system instead of four, and heated front seats. This is a list of features for the EX model. Pricing for the EX is exactly $2000 more than the LX with FWD at $22,845 and $23,145 for the AWD. These features may be worth the extra money if you live in a colder climate and need the AWD to get around. Other than the heated seats and larger tires, the features of the EX are more for appearance and entertainment.

1.3. Key Differences

The LX is the more basic of the two trims, while the EX includes more bells and whistles. The LX does not come with automatic headlights, while the EX does. Both have a rearview camera and a 7-inch touch screen, but the EX also includes dynamic guidelines on the screen to help you when backing up. The LX has a 160-watt sound system with 4 speakers, while the EX has a 180-watt sound system with 6 speakers. The LX does not come with heated mirrors or a second USB port. The EX includes a power moonroof and the Honda Lanewatch system. This is part of the right turn signal camera, which activates when the signal is activated and shows live video on the 7-inch screen of the right side of the vehicle for changing lanes or making a right turn. The LX does not have these available features, so if they are important to you, the EX is the better option. Both have LED brake lights and remote entry. The LX does not include the smart entry system, though the EX has it, as well as push button start. The EX also has a second 12-volt power outlet and automatic climate control. HondaLink Next Generation is also included in the EX and has more features compared to the standard HondaLink. The EX is available with the Honda Sensing package and can be purchased for $1000-1500 more. This is not available for the LX at any cost. This is a group of driver-assistance features that use a windshield-mounted camera and front grille-mounted millimeter-wave radar system to detect other vehicles. It includes various systems such as Collision Mitigation Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Road Departure Mitigation. This package and the additional features on the EX could be deciding factors in purchasing this model over the LX.

2. Performance

EX Performance The Honda HR-V EX offers the exact same performance mechanism as the LX, a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine with 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque, including the option for AWD and the standard CVT with torque converter. But the EX does offer paddle shifters on the steering wheel, allowing manual shifting to access the gear ratio range to get more out of the engine. A higher revolution operation exceeding 4500RPM will allow the engine to utilize this. Handling is slightly different as the EX is lowered and comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and all-season tires. This provides crisper and quicker steering, lessening understeer and body roll for better handling and a more satisfying drive. However, the trade-off is a rougher and noisier ride with increased vibration transferring to the cabin, and less impact absorption and steadiness on rough roads due to the higher natural frequency of the reduced unsprung weight. This performance change is a consideration of ride comfort over handling. The AWD functionality is no different from the LX, but the EX is equipped with Honda's Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control System as standard. This comes with the added bonus of agile handling assist and straight driving torque control. The same 0-100km/h time as the LX has been observed, and similarly, the LX's acceleration and top speed capability will create substantial time gaps during overtaking on the highway. The EX offers a quicker and more enjoyable acceleration method with a small decrease in fuel economy. The choice is based on the driver's driving style and the importance of fuel efficiency and economy.

The Honda HR-V LX will give you the best fuel efficiency compared to all the other trim levels. It is so eco-friendly and efficient that it will save you more time than stopping off for gas. All 2-wheel drive HR-V models are equipped with Eco Assist functionality and ECON mode to help you get the most out of every drop of fuel. Professional reviews state that the LX CVT is not a high performer, with a 0-100km/h time in the mid-nine-second range. Acceleration is sluggish and noisy on hard acceleration because of the CVT's automatic "shifting". This is a decision point for the customer between saving on gas costs and paying for quicker acceleration. The LX also rides on 17-inch steel wheels with all-season tires. The ride is quite smooth and quiet with responsive handling and very mild discomfort on rough pavement. Step-mash or trail braking will cause sharp understeer, which is not ideal for the highly aggressive driver. The AWD system for the LX provides good and transparent tractive capability, with foolproof function in almost any road condition. It is capable of transferring maximum torque to the rear wheels at take-off. Gravel, snow, and mud modes are simulated with intelligent control of repeated brake and acceleration at each wheel, unlike mechanical systems that require more power to push through slippage.

The Honda HR-V LX and EX have a 1.8-litre, 16-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with 141 horsepower and 127 lb.-ft. of torque. Both the LX and EX are available with real-time AWD. The LX is available with a 6-speed manual transmission or with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), whereas the EX is only offered with the CVT. The CVT has an upgraded torque converter for a more direct feel and a wider ratio range, which enhances acceleration and cruising efficiency.

2.1. LX Performance

The Honda HRV LX comes with a 141 horsepower 16V I-VTEC engine. This is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission to provide a smoother and more efficient gear transition, giving the LX 2017 HRV an average of 28/34 mpg. Honda has 3 different drivetrains to give you the option of which version would be best suited towards your needs. The Real Time AWD is a simple and efficient version of all-wheel drive and is the most suitable for the LX's gas mileage. The front-wheel drive version of the HRV comes with a more complex system called the CVT with AWD with Intelligent Control System. This is the better option if you live in a more severe climate such as snow, heavy rain, etc. This system can allocate an appropriate amount of torque to the rear wheels when starting on steep surfaces, giving the car an extra burst of traction, provide all-weather stability, automatically engage upon acceleration, and when going up hills and switch back off to conserve fuel when all-wheel drive is not necessary.

2.2. EX Performance

The EX model uses the same 1.8L 4-cylinder engine as the LX, producing the same 141hp and featuring the same CVT or 6-speed manual transmission options. However, the EX does offer all-wheel drive which can significantly affect the overall performance. All-wheel drive being an available option for the EX model is a plus, offering improved traction and handling at a critical moment. Whether on wet/dry pavement or in light snow, all-wheel drive can provide the necessary traction versus front-wheel drive only to pull you through. Unfortunately, the weight of the AWD system may burden the HR-V’s relatively small 4-cylinder engine to some extent, however, the 1.8L engine is shared with the CR-V which offers an all-wheel drive option and seems to perform adequately. The R16 wheels and all-season tires are identical to the LX model, meaning performance shouldn’t differ between the two models. The EX does offer paddle shifters, which in conjunction with the somewhat intelligent CVT offering G-shift mode can simulate a 7-speed automatic transmission. This feature is sure to add a little excitement to driving, and those who are adverse to traditional CVT transmissions will greatly appreciate the option. All in all, the EX model does not differ much in performance compared to the LX model, so if performance is the main concern, the LX model may be the more practical choice for the price difference.

2.3. Comparison

Most buyers are more concerned with price and fuel economy than what kind of airbags their vehicle is equipped with. If that statement describes your preferences as a car buyer, you'll likely purchase the 2016 Honda HR-V LX which is the more fuel-efficient version, especially when comparing the all-wheel drive (AWD) versions of both vehicles. The LX provides 28/35/31 MPG (city/highway/combined) for the two-wheel drive model and 27/32/29 MPG for the AWD model, while the EX puts out slightly inferior numbers expected with the additional features available. The two-wheel drive EX offers 28/35/31 MPG with the AWD model at 27/32/29 MPG. All models are equipped with ECON mode and have a 13.2-gallon fuel tank. With fuel economy increasing in importance every year, this could be a deal-breaker for a number of car buyers when choosing between the 2016 Honda HR-V LX and 2016 Honda HR-V EX. High fuel economy and trusted Honda reliability keep customers coming back. (Post, 2024)

There are very few differences in safety, with the LX lacking the EX's Honda LaneWatch feature as well as the Smart Entry and Push Button Start. While it may impact the choice of a select few potential car buyers, the average customer may not even know what features they're missing out on.

Both the 2016 Honda HR-V LX and 2016 Honda HR-V EX are powered by a 1.8-liter 16-valve SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with programmed fuel injection. They also both come with the choice of all-wheel drive. Dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags as well as front-side airbags and side-curtain airbags protect driver, front passenger, and rear occupants in each vehicle.

3. Technology

EX Technology: The EX model has several similarities to the LX in terms of features on the technology side of things. It has a similar LCD screen and control knob, Bluetooth and Siri, and an HDMI input located on the driver's side of the console. The main difference of the EX is the sound system and speaker phone that comes as standard in this trimline. The sound system is a 180 watt, 6 speaker system that is quite an improvement from the LX stock, and definitely enough to cater for the sound quality needs of the typical music/car stereo buff. This specific model of HR-V is also equipped with HondaLink Next Generation and LaneWatch. LaneWatch is a fairly innovative piece of technology that expands on the preexisting driver's side rearview mirror. When the blinker on the vehicle is activated, the car's rearview camera is automatically displayed on the touch screen, providing the driver with a view of nearly four times larger than that of a normal mirror. This essentially eliminates the common blind spot and increases safety when changing lanes. Next Generation HondaLink is a more advanced version to the preexisting HondaLink. This new feature supports a catalog of new media apps that can be streamed to the LCD screen, and supplies improved graphics and other features. The LX and the EX have similar features in terms of graphics and settings, although this would be up to date with modern technology in years to come.

The LX is the lower level of the two available HR-V trimlines. Because of this, it is fairly simplistic in terms of included features. The LX includes an LCD screen that is operated by the use of a control knob, similar to a mouse, that is located directly beneath the screen. The system is not a touch screen, a luxury that most modern drivers are used to and is considered standard for most vehicles in present times. The LX sound system is a 160 watt 4 speaker system. There are a couple of features on the LX that are quite good for the base model of a vehicle. This essentially includes the car stereo and the Bluetooth and Siri Hands Free features that can be used in conjunction with it. The car comes installed with an HDMI input in the front of the console, which is a useful edition for those that may want to access their phone features on the LCD screen while driving. The added security of this package compared to others in the Honda range would be the multi angle rearview camera that includes guidelines, as well as a security system.

3.1. LX Technology

LX technology aims to keep the costs low and give a well-equipped vehicle to the owners. It is identical to the vehicle's exterior design and gives a well-equipped interior and does not lack any essential features. Climate control feature, touch screen entertainment system, and multi-angle rearview camera are a few of the technologies provided. The touch screen entertainment system with a single view display also supports MP3 and Windows Media Audio playback. Installing an HDMI cable into the touch screen interface can also allow one to use audio and video output from a compatible device. The device will also charge when the vehicle is powered; so this is great for your mobile devices with GPS. The multi-angle rearview camera helps you to keep an eye on things when parked and also helps you to be more aware of your surroundings when reversing. Honda has also included guidelines that help with assistance and judgment into how much room on each side when right or left parking. Dual-zone automatic climate control allows the driver and the front seat passenger to choose their own climate settings. This is an upgraded version of the regular automatic climate control system.

3.2. EX Technology

Some of the best features inside the EX model include the inclusion of the Honda LaneWatch display. This feature is essentially a tiny camera mounted below the passenger side mirror that will display live video on the 7-inch center display when the right turn signal is activated. Its purpose is to provide a better view of the curb and blind spot on the right side of the vehicle. I find this to be a great safety feature and as someone who uses their side and rearview mirrors quite frequently, this can be rather useful in everyday driving. The left lane is the same area where the LaneWatch display will show video from the camera. By having an expanded view on the right side of the vehicle, it becomes more apparent when to change lanes and the right blind spot is no longer a surprise to the driver. Furthermore, multiple settings allow customization in the vehicle's options on when to display the video with it being a manual selection possible as well.

3.3. Notable Upgrades

Additionally, the EX HRV has markets that the LX does not possess. Smart Entry enables you to unlock your HRV, pull the door handle, and start the engine without ever having to take the key out of your pocket. Walk Away Auto Lock is an often-overlooked feature that's sure to become a favorite for any HRV owner. When you get 10 feet or further from your vehicle, the HRV will automatically lock the doors, just another step Honda is taking to ensure the safety of the vehicle and the owner's belongings. This last upgrade may not apply to all, but it's fairly common knowledge that a majority of people prefer the EX-L Navi for its added-on leather interior. Both the Smart Entry and the Walk Away Auto Lock are pinnacle features for those who are always on the go and find themselves constantly looking for convenience in their day-to-day life. The Navi is a huge bonus for those who put a high importance on being directionally savvy, but your Navi users and non-Navi users alike can enjoy the comfort and style of a leather interior. All of which come standard on the EX HRV. All have a considerable chunk of added expenses, but many would argue that these are key features for comfort and quality of life in comparison to the base model LX. This would be a review of notable essentials when considering the potential upgrades from the base model LX to the EX HRV.

4. Price and Value

The cost of the 2016 HRV EX raises just a bit compared to the LX with a starting price of $21,165. This is higher than most will want from the given upgrades and a bit steep for the lack of practicality in the grand scheme of small SUVs. The only thing that once becomes a factor with a vehicle this size and price; all wheel drive and the HR-V EX is only available in all-wheel-drive costing you extra money in shorter gasoline efficiency. This mixed with an estimated 27 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway and a lowered resale value of only 52% after 60 months, the EX option doesn't give much confidence compared to what the LX is offering for a cheaper overall cost in the long run.

Starting out with the price of the 2016 Honda HRV LX, we can see that it has a very appealing starting price of $19,215. For a vehicle that fits into the Sport Utility Vehicle market, this is one of the lowest starting prices available. Not just because it is a Honda and there are similar Honda vehicles that exceed the LX's starting price by a few thousand, but when comparing the price to other makes and models in the same market, the HRV is relatively cheap. The next big thing that comes to the minds of many when considering a new car is the gas that will be guzzled along with it. The HRV LX comes in at an estimated 28 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway, also saving you a few bucks on the side. When we look at the expected resale value from a five year investment, the 2016 HRV ranks high in the RAV4, CR-V, and Forester category, with a projected private party value being 54% after 60 months. With great gas mileage and long-term value, the HRV LX stands out as being the frugal choice in today's market.

4.1. LX Price and Value

The second cheapest Honda HR-V is the LX model. The Honda HR-V LX carries a price of $19,115 with FWD and $19,895 when AWD is desired. Additionally, each option raises in price by $500 when adding CVT. The AWD with CVT is the most expensive HR-V LX at $20,895. Illuminated steering wheel controls provide easier access when eyes are on the road. Additionally, a second USB port is installed in the LX and higher models. Although the LX is less costly, it has similar features to the EX model with the exception of Honda LaneWatch. Honda LaneWatch is a small camera on the passenger side mirror to assist in seeing in the lane to the right; very helpful when right lane switching or making wide turns. This is a very beneficial feature and might be a make or break for some buyers. It only comes on when the right blinker is active and displays a wide-angle view of about 4 lanes. Audio and Display is the audio touchscreen interface located in the Honda HR-V. This system allows you to pinch, swipe, and tap to control the vehicle's functions. The LX and higher models have a 7-inch display screen, which is high resolution and easy to navigate. The LX model, however, does not have heated front seats. High seats are good in keeping warmer than lower vehicle seats; however, fabric thickness and vehicle insulation will play a role in seat heat retention. So heated seats might not be as big of a deal depending on where you live. The LX model has 17" alloy wheels which are the same as the EX model. Wheel size plays a fairly large role in vehicle appearance and handling, so compared to other HR-Vs, the LX wheels are still relatively stylish. An additional feature to the LX model is the Honda accessory package. This package lets the buyer add on certain features to the vehicle, usually for styling the car but still a convenient add-on. The specific add-ons will raise the total price of the vehicle.

4.2. EX Price and Value

The EX trim comes in at an MSRP of $23,320 with a reasonable array of standard features. Being that we were interested in it, we compared it to the CR-V to see if it was worth the $3,900 difference in price. The CR-V EX comes in at an MSRP of $23,445 and is larger, more powerful, and gets slightly better fuel economy. The HR-V EX is admittedly not a very good value compared to the LX as you essentially only get a power moonroof and the Honda Lanewatch system for the $1,600 more it costs, but it's a good thing that it's available as the CR-V's pricing grows out of reach for people looking for a compact utility vehicle and that moonroof is the number one reason why people opt for a higher trim in the first place. It should be noted that $1,600 is the difference in price between a CR-V EX and an LX and is exactly what we feel is worth the upgrade from LX to EX and the two vehicles are quite comparable.

4.3. Worth the Upgrade?

When considering the cost of the EX over the assumed ownership period of six years, the extra cost is approximately $1400, rising to $2400 after including the Honda finance rate of 7.7%. These larger figures were due to the higher calculated depreciation of the EX over the LX, owing to its higher purchase price. The EX's higher insurance cost also contributed significantly to the total running cost. While the total cost of the EX over six years at $37717 is much higher than the LX at $32770, it is worth noting that the higher resale value due to the EX's higher specifications would bring the real cost closer to that of the LX. With a lower calculated depreciation rate over six years, the actual difference in total cost may be as little as $1000. This data shows that the EX, with a higher calculated total cost, is not necessarily worse value than the LX. All the additional features of the EX come at a price, and given the financial differences drawn between the two models, it is worth noting that some are better value than others. Of the features of the EX, Bluetooth is the best value; if it were added to the LX at the time of purchase, it would have lowered its depreciation rate and total cost, so its inclusion on the EX, which did not suffer a higher rate, is a small bonus to potential buyers. This is also true of the alloy wheels and higher-grade stereo, which have a similar real cost difference. The sunroof is also better value; it adds $120 to the total cost, which is a reasonable additional price when compared to the purchase of other new or used cars with sunroofs.

References:

POSTERS, D. "E200." namwheels.com . namwheels.com

Goretti, F., Oronti, B., Milli, M., and Iadanza, E. "Deep learning for predicting congestive heart failure." Electronics (2022). mdpi.com

Post, A. "To Be Is To Be Free." (2024). dominionpost.com