The EX-L is the more premium version of the Honda Fit, typically adding leather seating and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, along with extra comfort features. Exact equipment can vary by year and market, so checking the specific model year’s brochure is essential.
Understanding where EX and EX-L sit in the lineup
Honda’s subcompact Fit was offered in several trims that stepped up in luxury and convenience. In the US market, EX-L is generally the top-of-the-line version below the Touring, with the EX sitting a notch below and focusing on a strong set of standard features with fewer premium interior touches.
Interior materials and seating
These items cover what you’ll sit on and feel when you’re behind the wheel.
- Leather-trimmed seats are typically standard on EX-L; EX usually uses cloth upholstery.
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel is common on EX-L; EX generally has a conventional steering wheel with cloth or simulated leather trim depending on year.
- Interior materials and accents are upgraded on EX-L to feel more premium overall.
- Heated front seats and certain premium upholstery options are more commonly available on EX-L, though year-by-year availability can vary.
In most model years, upgrading to EX-L means a noticeably more upscale cabin experience compared with EX, especially in seating and trim details.
Exterior design and features
Exterior touches and packaging differ between the trims, affecting aesthetics and convenience.
- Both trims share the basic Fit silhouette, but EX-L often includes more chrome accents or upgraded wheel designs depending on year.
- A power sunroof (or moonroof) is more commonly offered on EX-L, while EX may have it as an option or not at all in certain years.
- Wheel sizes and styles can vary by year; EX-L typically wears a slightly more upscale wheel finish.
- Overall exterior color options are similar, but packaging may influence which options are bundled with each trim.
Exterior differences tend to reinforce the interior premium feel of the EX-L, though the core shape and size of the car remain the same.
Technology, infotainment and safety
Tech features and driver-assistance equipment show the most variation year to year between EX and EX-L.
- Infotainment: EX-L commonly upgrades to a larger touchscreen or higher-end audio setup compared with EX, with better infotainment responsiveness in many years.
- Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto appeared on Fit models in several years; availability can vary by trim and model year, with EX-L often supporting broader options in later years.
- LaneWatch and safety features: LaneWatch (a right-side camera display) is frequently included on EX and EX-L in various years; Honda Sensing safety suite availability varies by year and market, with EX-L more often receiving broader safety features in mid-to-late model years.
- Other conveniences (such as a voice-activated system or upgraded audio): typically more accessible on EX-L than on EX in many model years.
Because tech features shifted with Honda’s updates, it’s important to confirm the exact equipment list for the specific year you’re looking at.
Pricing, value, and when it’s worth upgrading
Price and value considerations often guide buyers between EX and EX-L.
- EX-L generally commands a higher price than EX due to leather upholstery, premium interior materials, and added comfort features.
- The incremental cost is often justified by the enhanced cabin feel and convenience features, especially if you value leather, a sunroof, and upgraded seating.
- For buyers on a tighter budget, EX delivers a strong mix of features at a lower price point, with many essentials and a solid balance of performance and practicality.
When deciding, weigh how much those premium interior touches matter to you against the extra cost and the year’s available features.
Bottom line
Across most Honda Fit model years sold in the United States, the EX-L serves as the more luxurious option, adding leather seating and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, plus typical upgrades to interior materials and sometimes a sunroof and heated seats. The EX remains well-equipped and offers strong value, focusing on essential features without the premium interior touches. Because features can shift with each new year and market, verify the exact specifications for the year you’re considering.
Summary
The key difference between Honda Fit EX and EX-L is the level of interior refinement and some comfort features. EX-L brings leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and commonly increases interior quality and some convenience options, while EX offers a robust feature set at a lower price with cloth upholstery. Always check the specific year’s brochure to confirm which features are standard or optional.