If you’ve ever shopped for a Honda Accord, you’ve likely seen the “EXL” badge and wondered what it means. What Does EXL Mean on a Honda Accord? It’s a specific trim level that stands for “EX-L,” or “EX Luxury,” and it represents a significant step up in features and comfort.
This quick guide explains everything you need to know about the Accord EX-L trim. We’ll cover what features it includes, how it compares to other trims, and whether it’s the right choice for you. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can shop with confidence.
What Does EXL Mean on a Honda Accord?
The “EXL” on a Honda Accord is actually stylized as “EX-L.” The “EX” part continues from the mid-level EX trim, while the “L” stands for “Leather” or “Luxury.” Essentially, the EX-L trim builds upon the well-equipped EX model by adding premium interior materials and additional comfort and convenience features. It’s designed to offer a more upscale driving experience without stepping into the highest performance or hybrid trims.
You’ll find the EX-L badge on the rear of the vehicle, usually on the right side. It’s been a consistent trim offering for the Accord for many model generations, signaling a popular balance of value and luxury.
Key Features of the Honda Accord EX-L Trim
The EX-L package is all about enhanced comfort and technology. While features can vary slightly between model years, the core upgrades are consistent. Here’s what you typically get over the lower EX trim:
* Leather-Trimmed Seats: This is the hallmark of the EX-L. The seats are upholstered in leather, which is easier to clean and offers a more premium look and feel compared to cloth.
* Heated Front Seats: A welcome feature in colder climates, providing extra comfort during winter months.
* Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat: Usually includes 8 or 12-way power adjustment with lumbar support for finding the perfect driving position.
* Upgraded Audio System: Often a premium audio system with more speakers and better sound quality than the base system.
* Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror: Reduces glare from headlights of vehicles behind you.
* Additional Power Features: May include a power passenger seat or a power moonroof/sunroof, depending on the year.
* Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Allows the driver and front passenger to set their own preferred temperature settings.
How the EX-L Fits Into the Accord Trim Lineup
To truly understand the EX-L, it helps to see where it fits in the typical Accord hierarchy. Trim levels usually progress from the most basic and affordable to the most feature-rich and powerful.
1. LX: The base model. It includes all essential safety and functional features but with simpler materials and fewer tech luxuries.
2. Sport: Often sits between LX and EX, focusing on aesthetic upgrades like larger wheels, a rear spoiler, and unique styling, sometimes with a more powerful engine option.
3. EX: The popular mid-point. Adds significant tech like a larger infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satellite radio, and advanced safety features as standard.
4. EX-L: The focus of our article. Takes the EX and adds the luxury features listed above, primarily leather and heated seats.
5. Touring: The top-tier trim. Includes everything from the EX-L and then adds navigation, ventilated seats, a head-up display, more advanced LED lighting, and sometimes a more powerful engine or adaptive damper suspension.
The EX-L is therefore the luxury-appointed trim, while the Touring is the fully-loaded trim with all the latest tech and comfort innovations.
Comparing EX-L to Other Trims: Is It Worth It?
Deciding if the EX-L is worth the extra cost depends on your priorities and budget.
EX-L vs. EX:
The jump from EX to EX-L is primarily about interior comfort. If you prefer the ease of cleaning and the feel of leather seats, and you value heated seats for winter, the upgrade is usually worth it. If you’re happy with cloth seats and don’t need the extra heating, the EX trim offers fantastic value with most of the important tech and safety features already included.
EX-L vs. Touring:
The jump from EX-L to Touring is larger and more expensive. You’ll need to decide if features like built-in navigation (though smartphone integration often replaces this), ventilated seats for summer, a premium audio system, and a head-up display are must-haves for you. For many buyers, the EX-L represents the “sweet spot” of luxury without paying for the very highest-end features they might not use.
Model Year Considerations for the EX-L
The Accord has been redesigned several times, and feature availability shifts. Here’s a brief overview:
* Older Generations (approx. 2013-2017): The EX-L was often the top non-hybrid, non-performance trim. It was clearly distinguished by its leather interior and was a very sought-after model.
* 10th Generation (2018-2022): Honda simplified the trims. The EX-L was available on both the 1.5T and 2.0T engine variants, with the 2.0T EX-L offering tremendous performance and luxury. Hybrid EX-L models also became available.
* 11th Generation (2023-Present): The lineup changed again. For the current generation, Honda often combines the luxury features of the old EX-L with the “Sport” aesthetic into a “Sport-L” trim, or integrates them into higher trims. It’s crucial to check the specific features of the model year you’re interested in, as the exact “EX-L” naming might not be used in every year.
Buying a Used Honda Accord EX-L: What to Check
A used Accord EX-L is an excellent choice for value. Here’s a quick checklist for when you’re shopping:
* Verify the Trim: Don’t just rely on badges. Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or the original window sticker to confirm it’s a genuine EX-L with the features you expect.
* Leather Seat Condition: Inspect the driver’s seat bolster for cracks, wrinkles, or excessive wear. Check the rear seats as well. Leather repair can be costly.
Feature Function Test: Make sure all the EX-L specific features work. Test the heated seats, every power seat adjustment, every speaker in the audio system, and the auto-dimming mirror.
* Service History: A well-maintained Accord is incredibly reliable. Look for a consistent service history with oil changes and recommended maintenance.
* Common Issues: Research common problems for the specific model year (e.g., certain years had issues with CVT transmissions or fuel injectors). A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always a wise investment.
Pros and Cons of Choosing the EX-L Trim
Pros:
* Premium Interior Feel: The leather interior makes the cabin feel more upscale and is easier to keep clean, especially with kids or pets.
* Enhanced Comfort: Heated seats are a game-changer in cold weather.
* Strong Resale Value: Well-equipped trims like the EX-L often hold their value better than base models.
* Great Feature Balance: It includes almost all the daily-use features most people want without the cost of the absolute top-tier trim.
Cons:
* Higher Cost: It’s more expensive to buy new and used compared to LX, Sport, or EX trims.
* Leather Maintenance: Leather requires conditioning to prevent drying and cracking, unlike cloth.
* Hot/Cold Surfaces: Leather can get very hot in summer sun and very cold in winter without the heated seat feature.
* Potential for More Options: On some model years, the EX-L could be optioned with navigation or other packages, adding complexity to your used car search.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does EXL mean it has a sunroof?
A: On most Honda Accord EX-L models, a power moonroof/sunroof is a standard feature. However, it’s always best to verify on the specific vehicle, as it could be part of an optional package on older models.
Q: Is the Honda Accord EX-L all-wheel drive (AWD)?
A: Traditionally, the Accord has been a front-wheel drive (FWD) sedan. For the 2023 and newer models, a hybrid AWD system is available, but it’s typically tied to specific trims like the Sport-L or Touring. The EX-L trim itself is not inherently AWD.
Q: What is the difference between EX and EX-L Honda?
A: The main differences are the leather-trimmed seats and heated front seats in the EX-L. The EX-L may also add other features like a premium audio system, auto-dimming mirror, and additional power adjustments for the seats.
Q: What is the top-of-the-line Honda Accord called?
A: The top trim is usually called the Touring trim. It includes all features from the EX-L and adds items like ventilated seats, a head-up display, upgraded LED lights, and sometimes a more powerful engine or adaptive suspension.
Q: Is the EX-L trim available as a hybrid?
A: Yes, for many model years (especially from 2018 onward), the Accord Hybrid has been offered in an EX-L trim level, combining the fuel efficiency of the hybrid powertrain with the luxury features of the EX-L interior.
Final Thoughts
The Honda Accord EX-L trim represents a smart choice for buyers who want a comfortable, feature-rich, and reliable sedan with a touch of luxury. It strikes a compelling balance between the well-equipped EX and the fully-loaded Touring trims. By understanding what “EX-L” means—the leather interior, heated seats, and extra comforts—you can make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget.
When you’re shopping, always check the specific features of the car you’re looking at, as packages and standard equipment can change between years. Whether you choose new or used, an Accord EX-L is a fantastic vehicle that delivers on Honda’s reputation for quality and longevity. Now that you know exactly what the EX-L badge means, you can shop for your Honda Accord with a clear understanding of the value it offers.