The 2024 Honda CR-V comes in five main trim levels, each with different standard features and price points

Honda offers the 2024 CR-V in LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Sport Touring trims. The LX is the base model with the fewest features, while the Sport Touring includes the most technology and comfort options. Each step up adds features like a more powerful engine, upgraded interior materials, additional safety technology, or entertainment systems.

The main difference between trims is what comes standard versus what you have to pay extra for. A feature that is included on the EX might cost you several hundred dollars as an add-on to the LX. Understanding what each trim includes helps you figure out which one actually fits your budget and needs, rather than paying for features you will not use or missing ones you want.

Key Takeaways

  • The LX trim is the most affordable but lacks features like all-wheel drive and advanced safety technology that come standard on higher trims.
  • The Sport and EX trims add all-wheel drive, a turbocharged engine option, and Honda Sensing safety features as standard equipment.
  • The EX-L and Sport Touring trims include leather seats, a power liftgate, and premium audio systems that are not available on lower trims.
  • Comparing what is standard on each trim costs less money than buying a lower trim and adding features later through dealer packages.

Engine and drivetrain options across trims

All 2024 CR-V models come with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as standard. The LX and Sport trims offer front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an add-on. On the EX, EX-L, and Sport Touring trims, all-wheel drive comes standard with no option to remove it.

The turbocharged engine produces the same horsepower across all trims — the difference is not in engine power but in what transmission and drivetrain setup you get. Front-wheel drive costs less and uses less fuel. All-wheel drive improves traction in snow and rain but reduces fuel economy by a few miles per gallon.

Safety features and driver information technology

Honda Sensing, which is Honda's suite of safety features, comes standard on the Sport trim and above. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. The LX does not include Honda Sensing as standard, though you can add it through a dealer package for several hundred dollars.

All trims include basic safety features like multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and backup camera. The difference is that higher trims give you the advanced driver information features without paying extra. If safety technology matters to you, the Sport trim is the lowest-cost option that includes it as standard.

Interior comfort and convenience features

The LX comes with cloth seats, a 7-inch touchscreen, and basic climate control. The Sport and EX add features like a power driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen. The EX-L and Sport Touring upgrade to leather seats, a power liftgate, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration.

Heated seats appear on the EX-L and Sport Touring. A sunroof is available on the EX and above but not on the LX or Sport. If you spend a lot of time in your car or live in a cold climate, the jump from cloth to leather and the addition of heated seats might be worth the cost difference between trims.

Audio and entertainment systems

The LX includes a basic six-speaker audio system. The Sport and EX upgrade to an eight-speaker system. The EX-L and Sport Touring include a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system with subwoofer. All trims support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through the touchscreen, though higher trims offer wireless connectivity instead of requiring a cable.

If you listen to music or podcasts during your commute, the audio quality difference between the basic system and the Bose system is noticeable. However, you can also add aftermarket speakers and amplifiers to any trim, so this feature alone may not justify moving up a trim level if other features do not matter to you.

Cargo space and storage across all trims

Cargo space is identical across all five trims because the body and interior layout do not change. Behind the rear seats, you have 39.3 cubic feet of space. With the rear seats folded down, you get 76.5 cubic feet. The power liftgate on the EX-L and Sport Touring makes loading easier but does not change how much you can fit.

All trims include under-seat storage, door pockets, and a center console. The main storage difference is convenience — the power liftgate on higher trims is useful if you have mobility issues or carry heavy items regularly, but it is not necessary for most owners.

Pricing and which trim makes sense for different budgets

The LX is the least expensive option but requires you to add features later if you want them. The Sport adds all-wheel drive and Honda Sensing as standard, which are two features most buyers want anyway. The EX adds more comfort features and a larger touchscreen. The EX-L and Sport Touring are for buyers who prioritize leather, premium audio, and the latest technology.

A common mistake is buying the LX to save money, then spending extra to add features that come standard on the Sport or EX. Comparing the total cost of a base LX with add-ons to the cost of a Sport or EX trim often shows that the higher trim costs less overall. Check the window sticker on each trim to see what is included before deciding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get all-wheel drive on the LX trim?

Yes, all-wheel drive is available as an add-on for the LX and Sport trims. On the EX, EX-L, and Sport Touring, all-wheel drive comes standard and cannot be removed. If you want all-wheel drive on a budget, the LX with the all-wheel drive package is an option, though the Sport with standard all-wheel drive may cost less overall.

Does every 2024 CR-V have Honda Sensing?

No. Honda Sensing comes standard on the Sport trim and above. The LX does not include it unless you add it through a dealer package. If advanced safety features are important to you, the Sport is the lowest-cost trim that includes them as standard.

What is the difference between the EX-L and Sport Touring?

Both include leather seats, a power liftgate, and the 10.2-inch touchscreen. The Sport Touring adds a few additional features like a different exterior design and slightly more premium materials, but the core equipment is very similar. The choice often comes down to styling preference and budget.

Can I add a sunroof to the LX?

A sunroof is not available on the LX or Sport trims through Honda's factory options. If you want a sunroof, you must move up to the EX trim or higher. Some owners add aftermarket sunroofs, but this is more expensive and complex than buying a trim that includes one.

Is the touchscreen size worth paying more for?

The difference between a 7-inch, 8-inch, and 10.2-inch screen is noticeable when using navigation or adjusting settings while driving. If you use your touchscreen frequently, the larger screen on higher trims reduces the number of button presses needed. If you mostly use voice commands or your phone for navigation, the screen size matters less.