If you’re comparing trim levels for America’s favorite compact car, you’re probably asking: What Is Difference Between Honda Civic Lx And Ex? This is a common and important question, as the LX and EX are two of the most popular choices. Understanding their distinctions will help you pick the perfect Civic for your needs and budget.
The Honda Civic is renowned for its reliability, efficiency, and value. But within its lineup, the jump from the base LX trim to the mid-level EX trim involves several key upgrades. These changes affect comfort, technology, and overall driving experience. We’ll break down every detail so you can make a confident decision.
What Is Difference Between Honda Civic Lx And Ex?
At its core, the difference between the Honda Civic LX and EX comes down to features and price. The LX is the value-oriented base model, offering all the essential Civic qualities. The EX is the mid-tier upgrade, adding significant comfort, convenience, and tech features for a higher price. It’s the sweet spot for many buyers who want more than just the basics.
Let’s get into the specific areas where these two trims diverge.
Price and Value Proposition
The price difference is the first thing you’ll notice. Typically, the EX trim carries a premium of $2,000 to $3,000 over the LX model. This gap can vary slightly based on model year and body style (sedan or hatchback).
* Civic LX: Positioned as the entry point. You get the proven Civic fundamentals at the lowest cost.
* Civic EX: Represents a step up in content. The added cost buys you a long list of popular features that many consider well worth the investment.
You must decide if the features included in the EX are worth the extra monthly payment or upfront cost. For many, the answer is yes.
Engine and Performance Specifications
This is a major differentiator. For recent model years, the engine change is a primary reason to consider the EX.
* LX Engine: Usually equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine. It produces around 158 horsepower. It’s a smooth and reliable engine focused on efficiency.
* EX Engine: Upgraded to a more powerful 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. It generates roughly 180 horsepower. This engine provides stronger acceleration, especially at highway speeds, while often maintaining excellent fuel economy.
The turbocharged engine in the EX gives the car a more responsive and engaging feel. If you often merge onto highways or carry passengers, the extra power is very noticeable.
Exterior Features and Styling
While both trims share the Civic’s sharp design, the EX adds some aesthetic and functional touches.
* Wheels: The LX rides on 16-inch steel wheels with covers. The EX gets larger 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, which enhance the car’s appearance.
* Sunroof: The EX trim almost always includes a one-touch power moonroof. The LX does not have a sunroof.
* Other Details: The EX may include body-colored door handles and side mirrors (LX may have black mirrors), and LED fog lights for improved visibility.
These changes make the EX look more upscale and complete compared to the more basic LX.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Inside is where you’ll spend your time, and the EX adds several important upgrades.
* Seating Material: The LX features durable cloth upholstery. The EX often upgrades to a more premium cloth or a synthetic leather (often called “premium” fabric).
* Climate Control: The LX has a standard manual climate system. The EX gets a much more convenient automatic climate control system. You set a desired temperature and the car maintains it.
* Keyless Access: With the EX, you get a smart key system. This allows you to unlock the doors and start the car without ever taking the key fob out of your pocket.
* Power Adjustments: The driver’s seat in the EX typically gets more adjustability, often including a power-adjustable lumbar support.
These features significantly improve daily comfort and convenience, making the EX feel like a more mature vehicle.
Technology and Infotainment Systems
The technology gap is substantial and a key reason buyers choose the EX.
* Audio System: The LX has a basic 4-speaker audio system. The EX upgrades to an 8-speaker system, sometimes with a subwoofer, for much better sound quality.
* Display Screen: The LX’s infotainment screen is smaller (often 7-inch). The EX gets a larger, higher-resolution touchscreen (usually 9-inch).
* Wireless Connectivity: A huge convenience feature. The EX typically adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The LX usually requires a USB cable for smartphone projection.
* Wireless Charging: The EX often includes a built-in wireless smartphone charging pad, eliminating the need for cords.
If you love tech and seamless connectivity, the EX’s upgrades are almost essential.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Both trims come standard with Honda’s excellent suite of safety tech, called Honda Sensing. This includes:
* Collision Mitigation Braking
* Road Departure Mitigation
* Adaptive Cruise Control
* Lane Keeping Assist
However, the EX sometimes adds enhanced features, like a blind spot information system (BSI) with cross traffic monitor. This is not always standard on the LX. Always check the specific model year details for this important category.
Fuel Economy Comparison
You might think the more powerful EX gets worse gas mileage, but that’s not always the case. Thanks to its efficient turbocharged engine, the EX often matches or even slightly exceeds the LX’s highway fuel economy. The city mileage might be very close too.
Always check the official EPA estimates for the year you’re considering. The difference is usually minimal, so you get more power without a fuel penalty.
Which Trim is Right For You? A Simple Guide
Choosing between the LX and EX isn’t just about features; it’s about your lifestyle.
Choose the Honda Civic LX if:
* Your budget is the absolute top priority.
* You primarily want reliable, efficient transportation.
* You don’t mind manual climate controls and a key for entry.
* You are okay with a basic sound system and wired smartphone connection.
* The base engine provides enough power for your daily driving.
Choose the Honda Civic EX if:
* You can stretch your budget for significant feature upgrades.
* You want a more powerful and responsive driving experience.
* You value daily conveniences like keyless entry, automatic climate control, and a sunroof.
* You want a better infotainment experience with wireless tech and better audio.
* You plan to keep the car a long time and want the extra comfort.
Long-Term Ownership Considerations
Think beyond the purchase price. The EX trim might hold its resale value slightly better due to its more desirable features. The added comfort and tech can also make a big difference if you plan to own the car for many years.
The cost of insuring an EX might be marginally higher than an LX, but the difference is usually small. It’s best to get a quote for both trims to be sure.
FAQs: Honda Civic LX vs EX
Q: Is the Honda Civic EX faster than the LX?
A: Yes, significantly. The EX’s turbocharged engine provides more horsepower and torque, leading to quicker acceleration.
Q: Does the Civic EX get better gas mileage?
A: It’s very comparable. The EX’s efficient turbo engine often achieves similar or slightly better highway mileage than the LX’s 2.0L engine.
Q: What does the EX have that the LX doesn’t?
A: Major EX exclusives include the turbo engine, sunroof, automatic climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, upgraded audio, and smart key entry.
Q: Is the Civic LX a good value?
A: Absolutely. The LX includes Honda Sensing safety suite, a great engine, and modern styling. It’s a fantastic car, just without the extra amenities.
Q: Can you add EX features to an LX later?
A: Some features, like alloy wheels or a better audio system, can be added aftermarket. However, core items like the turbo engine, sunroof, and automatic climate control are impossible or prohibitively expensive to add later.
Q: Which is more reliable, the Civic LX or EX?
A: Both are extremely reliable. The 2.0L engine in the LX is famously durable. The 1.5L turbo in the EX has a strong track record but is a slightly more complex system. Both are excellent.
Making the choice between the Honda Civic LX and EX ultimately depends on what you value most in your car. The LX is a superb, no-frills compact car that covers all the basics brilliantly. The EX builds on that solid foundation by adding the powertrain and features that define the modern driving experience. For many, the extra investment in the EX trim provides a level of satisfaction and convenience that makes it the clear winner. Test drive both back-to-back, and you’ll quickly feel and see What Is Difference Between Honda Civic Lx And Ex for yourself. The right choice will become obvious based on your own priorities behind the wheel.