The EX-L is the premium version of the CR-V EX, with leather seating and additional comfort features, while both trims share the same core powertrain and most safety technology. If you want luxury touches and a bit more interior refinement, EX-L is the better pick; if you value value and fewer upgrades, EX is appealing.
What these trims have in common
Both the EX and EX-L share the same fundamental drivetrain, safety suite, and core technology. Here are the features you can expect in both trims, though exact specifications can vary by model year and market.
- Engine and transmission: typically a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT); front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive available.
- Safety and driver-assistance: Honda Sensing safety suite is standard, including features like adaptive cruise control with Low-Speed Follow, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and collision mitigation braking.
- Infotainment and connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and USB integration; touchscreen size and layout can vary by year but both trims offer modern connectivity.
- Exterior and convenience: common essentials such as a sunroof/moonroof on many years, heated or otherwise comfortable climate controls, and similar cargo capacity.
In short, EX and EX-L provide the same fundamental Honda CR-V experience in terms of powertrain and safety, with differences focusing mainly on interior comfort and materials rather than core performance.
What sets EX-L apart
The EX-L upgrades the interior and some comfort features to a more premium level. The exact set of upgrades can vary by model year, but these are the most common differentiators you’ll see when comparing EX to EX-L.
- Seating and interior materials: leather-trim seats (versus cloth in the EX).
- Driver’s seat: usually a power-adjustable driver’s seat (more adjustable than the EX’s seating, which is often manual in older years).
- Steering wheel and controls: leather-wrapped steering wheel and often additional soft-touch materials or upgraded trim.
- Interior refinements: sometimes an auto-dimming rearview mirror and other premium cabin touches.
- Optional or later-year features: navigation or enhanced audio options are sometimes bundled or offered as part of EX-L packages, depending on the year and region.
Bottom line: EX-L adds leather seating and a more refined interior, plus a power-adjustable driver seat and related touches, which collectively raise the cabin feel compared with the EX.
Which trim is right for you?
If you prioritize a premium interior and added comfort features, and you’re comfortable paying a higher price, EX-L is the natural upgrade. If you want solid CR-V technology, strong safety features, and good value, the EX remains an excellent choice with most of the same core mechanics.
Cost considerations
Prices for EX and EX-L vary by model year, market, and optional packages. Historically, EX-L commands a several-hundred-to-a-few-thousand-dollar premium over EX, reflecting the leather upholstery and extra interior features. Always check current MSRPs and dealer incentives for your area and the specific year you’re considering.
Summary
The Honda CR-V EX and EX-L differ mainly in interior feel and comfort: EX-L adds leather seating, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and related refinements, while EX emphasizes value with cloth seating and fewer premium touches. Both trims share the same engine, CVT, and Honda Sensing safety suite, so performance and safety remain strong across either choice. Your decision should hinge on how much you value premium interior materials and seating adjustments versus saving money.