In most Honda lineups, EX-L is the higher trim and adds leather seating plus extra comfort and convenience features, while EX remains well-equipped but sticks with cloth seating and fewer interior upgrades. The exact contents depend on the model and year, so always check the specific build sheet for the car you’re considering.
What the EX trim includes (typical)
The EX trim is commonly positioned as a mid-level option that adds several modern conveniences over the base model. The list below reflects typical features you’ll see on many recent Honda models, though details can vary by model year and vehicle.
- Cloth seating (as opposed to leather in EX-L)
- Moonroof or sunroof (one-touch) on many models
- Upgraded infotainment with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto)
- Alloy wheels (versus base steel wheels on lower trims)
- Improved interior trim and additional convenience features
In addition to these items, some EX models include features from Honda’s safety and driver-assist suite, and certain years/and models may offer enhancements such as automatic climate control or enhanced audio systems. Always verify the exact specification for the model-year you’re evaluating.
What the EX-L trim adds (typical)
The EX-L trims build on EX by bringing a more premium interior and additional comfort features. The items listed here are commonly found in EX-L versions across multiple Honda models, though there can be year-to-year variation.
- Leather upholstery throughout the cabin
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat (often with added adjustments) and usually a power passenger seat
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and sometimes upgraded interior trim
- Heated front seats (availability varies by model/year)
- Optionally enhanced infotainment or premium audio, and sometimes auxiliary interior features
Because EX-L focuses on a more premium interior experience, it typically commands a higher price than EX and may include a few premium touches that are optional on EX.
Model notes: how EX vs EX-L can differ by Honda model
Civic
In recent Civic generations, EX-L usually adds leather seating and a power-adjustable driver's seat, whereas EX focuses on cloth seating, a sunroof, and an upgraded touchscreen. The EX-L may also bring a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats in certain years.
CR-V
For the CR-V, EX-L commonly includes leather upholstery and a power driver’s seat, while EX offers more standard features like a touchscreen with smartphone integration and Honda Sensing safety tech. Heated front seats are typically part of EX-L rather than EX in many model years.
Accord
On the Accord, EX-L is the leather-upholstered, more premium interior option with a power driver’s seat and often heated front seats, while EX provides a strong mix of comfort and technology with cloth seating and a different set of standard features. Navigation or premium audio may appear in higher-year EX-L configurations.
Summary
Across Honda models, EX-L generally represents a step up from EX, swapping cloth for leather, adding power-adjustable seating, and introducing leather-wrapped surfaces and sometimes heated seats. EX remains a strong, well-equipped mid-level trim with upgrades to interior materials and tech over base models. Since exact features shift by model and year, the best approach is to compare the official specifications for the exact vehicle you’re considering.
Bottom line
If you prioritize luxury touches and a more premium cabin, EX-L is the better choice. If you want solid features and value without leather, EX is typically sufficient. Always check the specific model-year specs to confirm which amenities come with each trim.