Honda Pilot EX vs EXL

1. Key Differences

Moving on to technology and connectivity, both Hondas take advantage of steering wheel-mounted audio controls. For the EX-L, this feature includes a talk button which activates a voice recognition system that controls navigation and audio for hands-free use. This is an enhancement from the standard steering wheel controls on the EX. Finally, the most notable differences between the models can be found in safety features. The EX-L includes a rearview camera with guidelines for distance and a new smart maintenance indicator that monitors driving style and tells the owner when service is due. The camera on the EX does not include guidelines, and the maintenance indicator is a far cry from "smart". Both vehicles include both driver and front passenger's active head restraints, a dual-stage multiple threshold front airbag system, driver and front passenger side airbags, and 3-row side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor. The EX-L, however, steps it up including an ACE body structure and a lane assist system to prevent the driver from drifting out of a detected lane. (Ronspies, 2020)

The differences between the EX and the EX-L begin with the exterior. While both vehicles have a "fin-type" roof-mounted antenna, integrated windows, and unibody construction, only the EX-L has an available power tailgate. Additionally, the body-colored heated power side mirrors with the built-in turn indicators that the EX-L has are a step up from the standard power side mirrors on the EX and are both able to defrost in cold weather. The last difference to note is the EX has 18-inch alloy wheels compared to the EX-L's 18-inch alloy wheels, and all of these differences are quite minuscule. Moving inside the vehicle, the EX is outfitted with a 5-inch LCD screen that is a far cry from the luxurious 8-inch display that comes standard with the EX-L. As the two vehicles move up to the front, passengers in the EX-L will reap the benefits of a 10-way power-adjusted driver's seat that includes a power lumbar support adjustment. The same cannot be said for the EX as it retains a less adjustable 4-way power seat. Both vehicles have a flat-folding 60/40 split third-row bench; however, the EX-L's is a bit more user-friendly with a one-touch lever that easily slides the second-row seat forward for easier access to the back. Wrapping everything up inside on a high note, the EX-L comes standard with "HondaLink" and an SMS text message function.

1.1. Exterior Features

The power tailgate featured on the EXL is a really nice feature for when your hands are full. I found it was a luxury I would appreciate. The smart entry is also convenient, however, I found the door handles on the EX can get the job done just fine. The roof rails on the EX and EXL are a plus, but if you're going to use a cargo box or hitch carrier you don't necessarily need them. The biggest issue for me when deciding between the EX and EXL was the auto on/off LED headlights on the EXL. After owning a 2005 Honda Accord with 275,000 miles I've had my fair share of headlight changes and I'm a sucker for a good set of headlights. The EX has projector beam halogen headlights which I didn't find too shabby, however, I felt it could be an issue in the winter months up north. Speaking of winter months, the heated side mirrors on the EXL will be nice to have in Minnesota. The last exterior feature is the variable intermittent windshield wipers, which I honestly could have done without.

1.2. Interior Features

There are several differences between the Honda Pilot EX and EX L, but the most noticeable one is in the interior design. Both designs maintain the elegance one has come to expect from a Honda, but they are each catered to a specific crowd. The EX's interior is made of high quality soft touch materials and split into two levels. The top level is represented by a new color 8 inch touch screen which speakers below it and is responsible for all the media displayed throughout the car. Below that are the climate control buttons and a slide cover concealing the large storage compartment which is perfect for storing items out of sight. Below that level are the traditional controls for the heating/cooling system. The level difference makes the dash appear as if it is floating in front of the passenger which serves to create a feeling of openness that is complemented by the one touch panoramic roof. This design not only looks good but is extremely functional as the touch screen and higher level controls are within close reach to the driver and the lower level controls are easy reach for the passenger. The EX L has similar dash features, but the two level design is enveloped by a line of wood trim and shelled in a more conventional three level structure. The wood creates a high class look and the layers, although they do make the cabin feel a bit more compact, are easier for older generations to navigate. Another notable difference is in the seating surfaces and the functionality of the second row seating. The EX's seating is two toned with fabric inserts that have been treated with the same water resistant coating used in the Honda Odyssey. This is perfect for people with active lifestyles and children who tend to make messes. The second row is a 60/40 split with a simple one touch pull lever to slide the seats forward for third row access. The third row is also a 60/40 split, but it has the added convenience of a single touch power button that moves the seat into a raised position. The EX L and below it have traditional seating surfaces covered in leather. The second row is also a 60/40 split, but it is designed differently with a new latch and slide feature that allows the seats to be moved forward with more head clearance for third row passengers. The best seat in the house is the EX L which replaces the second row bench with two captain's chairs. This not only makes third row access easier by creating a walkway between the two chairs, but it also gives second row passengers first class comfort with a center console and fold down tray in place of the omitted eighth seat. (Raneo)

1.3. Technology and Connectivity

In terms of technology and connectivity, the EXL's only upgrades come with the addition of an auto-dimming rear view mirror with integrated backup camera display. All standard tech features between the trims remain the same. An 8-inch high resolution WVGA (800x480) screen comes standard and easily allows one to view music, phonebook, media, vehicle information, and rear camera display. The screen is still quite clear to see in the daytime. Unfortunately, many users complain that the lack of brightness control is annoying when driving at night. This can be especially blinding for some users with the backup camera display. It is quite surprising that Honda omitted this feature with the new cuts to the trim levels; however, it is definitely a noted oversight. With the impending skirt of the CD slot in cars, the Pilot comes stocked with 7 speakers and a subwoofer (provides 229 watts) and 2GB of library storage. Sadly, Honda has also chosen to remove the auxiliary input jack, which can be a bit of an annoyance for some users that have yet to make the switch to purely Bluetooth or don't have an iPhone 7 adapter. The system is Pandora internet radio compatible and has full Bluetooth audio and phone. HondaLink and HondaLink Assist are EXL only features and provide a smartphone interface which allows access to various cloud-based media and music services. In terms of connectivity, an illuminated steering wheel-mounted audio and phone controls, as well as three USB charging ports provided (1.5-amp and 1.0-amp), ensure that your devices are always charged and easily controlled. Dual-zone automatic climate control comes standard, and there are three 12-volt power outlets and a three-prong 115-volt power outlet to be used between all three rows.

1.4. Safety Features

If anything is more important than value added features, it's the safety features that come with buying a new vehicle. Most in the market for a new car want to feel as if they are in a tank and when the inevitable accident happens, they will come out without a scratch. While no vehicle is safe in any accident, there is a significant difference in the safety features that the Pilot EX and EX-L have to offer. To start, both Pilots have the standard front airbags, front side airbags and side-curtain airbags with rollover sensor. They also both have the Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake Distribution and Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control. So far it seems both Pilots are almost identical in safety features, but the EX-L begins to show its worth with the additional safety it has to offer. The first main difference is with the driver's seat position memory, which is severely overlooked in its importance as it will ensure that you have put your seat in its best driving position. If you have owned a car with numerous drivers, you'll understand the importance so that an unsafe driving condition doesn't arise from someone adjusting the seat into a position they are not used to. The EX-L also comes standard with an auto-dimming rear view mirror. With enough bright headlights facing the back of them on the highway, one could be temporarily blinded looking behind them at what is going on in the back seat or on the road. This feature could potentially prevent accidents. The second major difference is with the rear parking sensors and since these can prevent many small accidents before they happen, this is a very significant feature difference. While drop and pick up zones are often in congested areas, people will have a very hard time maneuvering around the Pilot without hitting anything. This is especially a concern for parents with small children. The final, and most significant difference is that the EX-L has available access to Honda's newly adopted safety feature system; Honda Sensing. While this is not a feature for the vehicle itself and can thus be acquired independently, we would be foolish not to mention it when discussing the safety of the said vehicles. This is a group of safety features and driver assistive technologies designed to help drivers identify potential threats and avoid collisions. Honda Sensing has been praised for how well it helps prevent collisions and mitigate impact and is working towards integrations with transportation departments and other vehicles to build a safer road environment. While this is an available upgrade for any Honda vehicle, those considering a new Pilot could see this as a reason to lean toward the EX-L.

2. Performance and Engine Options

Ex and EXL versions of the Honda Pilot are both using the same engine, 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC Engine. It produces 250 horsepower at 5700 RPM and 253 lb/ft torque at 4800 RPM. This engine had been awarded as one of the best engines for six consecutive years by Ward's Automotive when it was first introduced in Acura cars. With fuel economy expected for a modern crossover, the Pilot delivers 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel drive version, and 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for the all-wheel drive version. With a 20-gallon fuel tank, the Pilot could travel quite far before needing to fill up the tank. Step on EXL version with the requirement of better efficiency and fuel management, Honda added Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system on the engine. VCM is a technology that could disable some of the engine's cylinders depending on the vehicle's operating conditions. This would increase fuel efficiency and could possibly reduce fuel consumption. During light load operation, the system runs on 6-cylinder mode, and on 4 or 3-cylinder mode during moderate to heavy load operation. This could increase the fuel efficiency and Honda claims it is the best than any 7 or 8-passenger SUV. VCM is controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) that is based on input from sensors, making judgments on when and how long each cylinder is disabled. Both of the versions are using a 5-speed automatic transmission with Overdrive. The difference comes to the Grade Logic Control System, only the EX version has the ability to be switched off. When the system is on, the transmission could regulate vehicle speed when climbing or descending hilly roads without the driver's need to apply the brakes, and reduce shifting during uphill and downhill to prevent transmission hunting between gears. Honda transmits the power through the transmission to the advanced Variable Torque Management 4-Wheel Drive System (VTM-4) that will be explained in section 3. For towing requirements, it would be great to add some more power and the Pilot is capable of towing up to 3500 lbs for the 2WD version and 4500 lbs for the 4WD version.

2.1. Engine Power and Efficiency

The EX-L and the Touring models come with Variable Torque Management 4-Wheel Drive (VTM-4), as well as VCM, and are EPA rated at 16 miles per gallon in the city and 22 miles per gallon on the highway. The EX-L and Touring powertrains are similarly identical and offer the same efficiency and power from VCM. But the addition of VTM-4 adds a more powerful and efficient all-wheel drive system that builds on the capabilities of the standard models' Variable Power-Assist Rack-and-Pinion Steering and Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering. These are just a few of the features that ensure that the Pilot has good steering capabilities in many different driving scenarios.

The Pilot EX and the LX come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 250 horsepower at 5700 RPM and 253 ft-lbs. of torque at 4800 RPM. It is EPA-rated to achieve 17 miles per gallon in the city and 23 miles per gallon on the highway. Both the EX and LX powertrains are powerful and run on a Variable Cylinder Management system (VCM), which allows the engine to run in 6-cylinder mode for power and 4-cylinder or 3-cylinder modes for efficiency. However, if engine loading is high, it will automatically revert to 6-cylinder mode. The engine also uses an Active Control Engine Mount system and Drive-by-Wire throttle to increase fuel efficiency and further decrease emissions.

2.2. Transmission Options

The EX-L has a five-speed automatic transmission and for 2011 the EX has also been found to get the same five-speed automatic, replacing a dated 5-speed auto. The step-up transmission is one of the main reasons, for the otherwise not huge gulf in price from EX to EX-L. The automatic transmission is a grade called VTM-4 for the all-wheel drive system, which features a version of Honda's Variable Cylinder Management that can run the engine on three, four, or all six cylinders; but for this application VCM only slightly marginally improves fuel economy. Both VCM and a Variable Torque Management system are significant differentiators between EX/EX-Ls and lower-end 2WD Pilots. Unfortunately the first generation Pilot's transmission was a failure leading to recalls and replacements and owners can only hope that Honda has that sorted out this time around.

Both the Pilot EX and EX-L are available with optional all-wheel drive and with or without the DVD Rear Entertainment System. But the DVD option will force you into the RES EX-L or the highest-end Touring version. This model differentiation allows buyers in the lower trim levels to get AWD and the more sophisticated VTM-4 system, which can send more torque to the rear wheels when needed, and also has a lock mode good for slow-speed driving in snow or mud. But for those who don't want AWD and might be fine with a more basic four-wheel drive system.

2.3. All-Wheel Drive System

The EXL has chosen to take a different path to the EX 4WD by fitting the vehicle with a more advanced Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system. This VCM equipped Pilot runs a 2WD system that is essentially the same as previous front wheel drive Hondas. However, the VCM allows the engine to deactivate up to three of the six cylinders when full engine power is unnecessary. This is especially effective in highway cruising, where fuel economy is gaining more and more importance among consumers. When more power is needed, the engine functions on all six cylinders and the system is seamless so the driver will not notice any change in engine performance. The VCM Pilot is said to have fuel economy ratings comparable to some four cylinder mid-size SUVs and this is the main reason for Honda choosing a 2WD system, as it is expected that buyers will be seeking reduced fuel consumption.

The 4WD system in the EX can send some of the power to the rear wheels to remedy slippage at the front. The system can send a maximum 50% of the power to the rear wheels and of that, around 100% can be transferred to either left or right rear wheel. This is achieved by using a hydraulic pump system to override the rear wheels and is especially efficient in severe conditions. A unique feature of the 4WD Pilot is its "VTM-4 lock", which can be engaged at low speeds and changes the 4WD function into a 'locked' system. This means that all of the 50% of power sent to the rear wheels is distributed evenly between left and right. This is an ideal function for pulling heavy loads or getting the vehicle out of extremely tough situations and is a feature that sets the 4WD Pilot apart from the rest.

There are some fundamental differences between the EX and EXL drivetrains. The EX Honda Pilot comes in two different wheel drive options: the standard 2WD, or a Variable Torque Management 4WD system that is available as an extra cost. The 2WD system is front wheel drive and thus won't hold major off-road capabilities. It should be known that the Pilot is primarily used as a people mover, so this option will suffice the needs of many buyers.

3. Comfort and Convenience

Seating and cargo space is very similar in both the EX and EX-L versions of the 2018 Honda Pilot. Both versions come with standard third-row seating. This vehicle is offered with second-row bench seating or second-row captain's chairs, which reduces the seating capacity to seven. However, the second-row captain's chairs are only available on the EX-L version. The third-row seating can be accessed by using one-touch slide and fold down the second-row seating. Both versions also come with 60/40 split folding third-row seating and second-row seats. Due to the fact that the second-row seating is eight-passenger in the EX version and seven-passenger in the EX-L, it will affect the cargo space. The EX version has 16.5 cubic feet of storage behind the third row, but with the second row lowered, the storage increases to 46.8 cubic feet. The EX-L version has 16.5 cubic feet of storage behind the third row, and with the second row lowered, the storage increases to 46.8 cubic feet. This is a feature that may be of interest to a potential buyer of this vehicle. This feature comes standard in the EX-L version, but the ability to not have to open the rear hatch to access the cargo area is something that a buyer might be interested in. Another method to access the cargo area is available with the EX-L version with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™. This may be an important option for some buyers. A comparison to the 2017 model for the EX-L would be the option here is to not have to purchase an RES model to get to the same amount of cargo space. A continuity from the 2017 to 2018 model is the EX-L RES, which will have the same audio and rear entertainment system specs as the 2017 model.

3.1. Seating and Cargo Space

Seating and Cargo Space. Since all Honda Pilots are eight-seaters, there are many things you must consider. For example, the EX and EXL trims both come with a second row bench, making the total seat count nine. This could be positive or negative, depending on your wants and needs. The EX and EXL also both have a "One-Touch" walk-in feature. By using a lever on the side of the seat, the second row seats can slide and fold forward for easy access to the third row. However, the second row seats on the EXL are captains chairs, and the walkway in between is wider than the EX models, making third row access easier. The third row on both trims is a "Split 60/40", and will also fold forward with relative ease; however, the wider walkway and easier access makes the third row on the EXL a bit more enticing to potential buyers. Moving on to cargo space, the Pilot is a fantastic vehicle. According to the Honda page, the Pilot provides "a class-leading 87.0 cu. ft. of cargo volume when the second and third rows are folded down". This is an unbelievably large amount of space. Both trims offer the same amount of space, but the EXL has a slight advantage when all seats are up. The EXL has 16.5 cu. ft. of cargo volume with all seats in place, and the EX has 16.0 cu. ft. of space. This is barely a difference, and either way it is plenty of space for groceries, sporting equipment, etc. Overall, the seating and cargo capabilities of both vehicles are very good. The decision may come down to the fact that the Pilot is a family vehicle, and more often than not seating space is vastly important. In this case, the easier access to the third row on the EXL, and the additional storage space could very well make it the better option. But again, that decision is for the customer to make.

3.2. Climate Control

Tri-zone climate control takes things a step further and extends separate climate settings to everyone in the car by adding a separate temperature control for the rear of the car. This means everyone in the car has their own climate environment. The pilot EX-L model and above all have tri-zone climate control.

Dual-zone climate is a step up from standard climate control in the sense that you can have both the driver and the front passenger in a separate climate environment. This might be useful if one person feels cold and the other hot. The system lets you set individual temperatures for the left and right side of the front seat.

This is the most basic form of climate control available and is something that is so commonly installed into cars these days. The idea is simple, you tell the car the desired cabin temperature and the car will automatically use its heating or cooling functions to ensure that environment is met. You may need to manually control whether you want the air to come through the vents being hot or cold but the car will do the rest.

Climate in a car can be felt by everyone onboard. Whether it be the driver or the passenger, everyone in the car shares the same environment and if it isn't comfortable for one person, it will likely become uncomfortable for everyone. Keeping the temperature state constant throughout the whole car can be a harder task than some would imagine but features below ensure a comfortable climate for everyone on board.

3.3. Audio and Entertainment System

The standard sound system provided by Honda isn't bad, but audio enthusiasts might be interested in an aftermarket system. Let's take a look at the weak points in what Honda has to offer with the standard system. The head unit pushing the sound is actually not too bad. Most people would be happy with the features - notably the iPod/USB interface and steering wheel audio controls - and fits the double-DIN opening in the dash. The speakers, while low quality, are a step up from what you can expect to find in a new sub $20,000 car. This is where the good news stops. The signal is sent from the head unit to the speakers through an amplified crossover unit located behind the rear hatch. The speaker-level signal comes into this unit and is sent out as a low-level signal to the speakers. Because of this, installing a new head unit or aftermarket amplifier can be quite complicated and is usually not worth the effort. This crossover unit and its 14-pin connector are an often overlooked aspect in audio system upgrades in the Pilot.

The Pilot EX comes standard with a 5-inch color LCD screen, a seven-speaker sound system, Bluetooth and audio connectivity, an iPod/USB interface, and an auxiliary audio jack. The Pilot EX-L adds a USB charger, satellite radio, a sunroof, a power liftgate, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and the option of a rear-seat entertainment system. A navigation system is also available for the EX-L. Note that the navigation system includes a higher-resolution 8-inch touchscreen, as well as voice controls and is not available on the EX. The included audio system is the same.

3.4. Driver-Assist Features

While the original Pilot EX offered a Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System as part of its RES rear entertainment system package, the new navigation system for the Pilot LX represents a substantial improvement that will be welcomed by drivers who rely on navigation assistance. The new system features improved graphics and 3D landmark displays, along with more than 7 million points of interest and both FM traffic and traffic rerouting features. The system is standard on the Pilot EX and provides a significant competitive advantage, as key competitors do not offer standard navigation systems on their volume models. High-end audio fans will also welcome the arrival of the new USB Audio Interface that is standard on the Pilot EX and EX-L. This feature allows for the easy connection of USB music storage devices, including iPods with music stored in MP3 or WMA formats. The device and its contents can be operated using the audio system controls and multi-information display, and it will charge the device while it is in use. The Pilot EX-L now includes a Bluetooth HandsFreeLink phone interface as standard equipment, providing further convenience and improved integration of mobile phones in the vehicle. This system enables hands-free operation for Bluetooth compatible mobile phones, with an integrated microphone, illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls, and an upper display audio system for operation and caller ID. In summary, the new navigation system, USB audio interface, and Bluetooth HandsFreeLink system provide Pilot EX and EX-L drivers with the modern convenience and connectivity features that today's car buyers expect.

3.5. Keyless Entry and Start

The Honda Pilot EX features keyless entry for the driver's door and push-button start. This allows for easy entry into the vehicle and start up without having to dig for the keys. Open any of the four doors and then press the black button on the door handle to lock/unlock the EX-L. The EX-L adds the convenience of keyless entry for all doors. With the key fob on your person, any of the four doors can be touched to unlock the vehicle. The same sensor on all four door handles will not work unless touching is done on the sensor of the front doors if the Walk Away Auto Lock feature is turned on. This feature will automatically lock all the doors when the vehicle is turned off and the driver's door is shut, and the key fob is 6 or 8 feet away from the vehicle. This is a handy feature if you are the type of person who has ever had to turn around and go check whether or not you remembered to lock your vehicle. With the doors locked, the key fob can be stored in the center console, and the Ignition Switch Knob can be turned to start the Pilot EX. Turning the same knob will stop the vehicle. The EX-L is equipped with a more advanced Push Button Start and push-button gear selector. Turning the knob will achieve the same result. Both have an Immobilizer theft-deterrent system to protect your vehicle and an emergency engine stop feature. An additional advantage to these keyless entry and start features on the EX and EX-L is that you can make duplicate keys with just the gray service key (valet key) as the key fob has an integrated key. This can be useful for various situations where you need to provide someone else with a key to your vehicle.

The Honda Pilot EX and EX-L feature keyless entry and start. The EX has keyless entry for the driver's door, and the EX-L provides keyless entry for all doors. Both feature a push-button start and walk away auto lock. If the vehicle is off, the doors are locked, and the key fob is 8 feet away from the vehicle, the driver can walk away without having to manually lock the doors but instead just touch the 2nd sensor on the driver's door handle.

4. Pricing and Trim Levels

When comparing the base price for Pilot EX and EX-L, there isn't a difference. However, the price starts to change once the features for both trims are compared. Starting with the base model EX, it has fabric seats with a manually operated seat for the driver. It doesn't come with heated seats for the driver or front passenger. The audio system only comes with 7 speakers and doesn't include a subwoofer, as well as the head unit doesn't include a 6-disc CD changer. There is no automatic dimming rearview mirror and no steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Dual illuminated vanity mirrors for the driver and passenger don't come included, as well as the EX does not include a security system. All features listed, as well as all additional features in the EXL to be compared, will be totaled up. Starting from the interior, the EXL has leather-trimmed seats compared to the fabric seats in the EX. Both the driver and passenger seats are heated and have a 10-way power adjustment for the driver seat and 4-way power adjustment for the front passenger seat. The 7-speaker audio system and subwoofer are included, and the head unit is a 6-disc CD changer. Automatic climate control comes equipped with the EXL. The EXL also includes an automatic dimming rearview mirror with a built-in rearview camera display shown from the Navi head unit. The steering wheel-mounted audio controls are included along with a USB audio interface. The EXL has 2nd and 3rd row sunshades, and the front row armrests and center console are illuminated.

4.1. Base Trim Comparison

The EX and EXL are two particular trim levels that are very similar to each other in the Honda Pilot model. One thing sticks out in terms of difference and that is the price of the two. The EXL comes with everything that is included standard in the EX at base level plus a few extras and refinements, while the EX will come with just the basics in comparison. With the Honda Pilot being an 8 seater and a family oriented car, the EX trim is a good consideration for parents who may be comfortable having expensive things around children or teenagers where accidents can happen. The reason for that statement is the cloth seating which comes with the EX model, which while less luxurious, the cushions of cloth seats are generally more resilient to any future accidents where leather seats may gain a permanent scratch or a tear. Of course what is labeled as the basics in Honda is still considered more than standard in other brands, let alone any other 4 cylinder SUV. Other highlights of the EX trim include a reverse camera, 3 zone climate control, and a push button start. This trim also boasts what is labeled as the intelligent traction management system, should there be any time in the future where the pilot has to drive on a loose surface or up a steep hill.

4.2. Additional Features in EXL

EXL has a few additional features that can be very tempting to potential buyers. In addition to 4WD, the EXL has a leather-trimmed interior, a 10-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, heated front seats, and a sunroof. The leather trim is extremely valuable to families, as it is much easier to clean than spills, baby formula, etc. compared to the usual cloth interior. Leather is also used as a safety feature by some, as stains and spills can put a burden on used resale value. The 10-way power seat is a luxury feature that is often overlooked, but you wouldn't go back to the old way once you've tried it. You'll find the perfect seating position in a matter of seconds, and it's especially valuable for multiple drivers. The power lumbar support goes hand in hand with the seat to personalize comfort. With the power seat and lumbar support, finding a comfortable driving position to suit a various range of sizes is a breeze. Heated seats are great for back pain and soreness, and are also very quick in drying wet children if you've ever been caught in the rain. Overall, the leather interior along with the power seat and lumbar support are a great bet for those seeking comfort and long-term value in their vehicle.

4.3. Price Difference and Value Proposition

The price difference between the two trims is consistent with the assumed added value of the EXL over the EX. Here I will hone in on the price specifics and justify if the EXL is worth the added expense. The following pricing details are taken from Honda's Canadian website. The EX is listed at $37,590 CDN, which maintains the price it was in September, and the EXL is listed at $40,090, $500 cheaper than it was on the 2016 model. Given that both trims are 2017 models, the $2500 price difference remains constant, and the lower price of the EXL suggests added value. This in itself is an attractive feature, as often the cost of adding leather and navi to a vehicle can be much more than $2500. Now let's break down the added value of the EXL compared to the EX. On top of the leather and power tailgate, the EXL has a 4-way power passenger seat and a two-position memory driver's seat. This is a useful feature if the vehicle is often driven by more than one person. Leather is often preferred over cloth seats as it is supposedly more comfortable and lasts longer. There is a heated steering wheel in the EXL, which is quite a luxurious feature, and lastly, 1 extra speaker in the audio system. I could not find the cost of adding these features to the EX, but given that the initial price difference is only $2500, the EXL is arguably already better value.

References:

Ronspies, K. B. (2020). Evaluation and Update of MASH Test Vehicles. unl.edu

Raneo, F. (). Dean Noble: Creating a Meaningful Career in Design. Art & Design. suffolk.edu