The Honda CR-V is not just one of the most popular SUVs out there, it's also one of the most popular vehicles in America. But deciding to buy one isn't quite enough—you still have to pick which trim you want.
Honda CR-V Trims
Each of the CR-V's trims adds additional features, but at what point do you cross the line from necessary accessories to luxury comforts? This detailed breakdown will help you determine which 2021 Honda CR-V should be in your garage.
LX
The 2021 Honda CR-V LX with front-wheel-drive is the least expensive 2021 Honda CR-V on the market with a starting MSRP of $25,350. Despite being the cheapest, it still comes with some pretty great features. You get daytime running lights, a multi-angle rearview camera, fold-flat 60/40 split rear seats, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The CR-V LX is equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, hill start assist, and active noise cancellation. Because it has a smaller engine, it gets great gas mileage for an SUV. The EPA rates its fuel economy at 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Upgrading to all-wheel-drive decreases the fuel economy slightly to 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. Conversely, it increases the price as well.
As is typical on Honda vehicles, there is an array of active and passive safety features. This makes the CR-V LX perfect for new and inexperienced drivers. Along with the multi-angle rearview camera, it also has a tire pressure monitoring system, automatic high beams, and electronic brake distribution. The seatbelt reminder ensures drivers and front-passengers alike don't forget their safety strap.
But in addition to those features, the CR-V offers a ton of active safety features. Starting with the 2020 model, Honda has made these features - like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control - standard with the CRV.
On the inside, the CR-V LX’s entertainment system includes Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, a four-speaker stereo, and 5-inch touch display. All the infotainment apps are accessible through the five-inch color LCD screen. Additionally, there's a manually adjustable driver's seat and automatic climate control.
EX
The 2021 Honda CR-V EX is the next step up and starts at $27,860. It comes with everything the CR-V LX has and more. Some of the most notable features include Honda Sensing and Smart Entry with walk-away auto-locking. Extra active safety features with this model include blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
Other improvements to the interior make the CR-V EX even more convenient and enjoyable to drive. These include a push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a power moonroof, and an upgraded entertainment system. That means a bump up to a 7-inch display, six total speakers, three added USB ports, HondaLink with Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto compatibility, Satellite radio and HD radio
EX-L
The 2021 Honda CR-V EX-L is the next trim level and starts at $30,450. If the CR-V LX upped performance and safety, the CR-V EX-L focuses on luxury. One of the most prominent features is the addition of leather on the interior rather than cloth. The new leather seats are accompanied by a matching leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. This CR-V EX-L also implements a power tailgate, power-adjustable seating, and an automatic-dimming rearview mirror, but that doesn’t even begin to cover the improvements.
Drivers will appreciate the HomeLink Remote System. HomeLink can open and close your garage door, but also lets you control lighting, appliances, electronics, and security systems. The audio system is also upgraded yet again. The CR-V EX-L includes eight total speakers and the option to add the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation system.
Touring
The 2021 Honda CR-V Touring is the most expensive, but also must luxurious, of the CR-V trims. The starting MSRP is $33,650 and includes every feature you could want in an SUV. These include a hands-free access power tailgate, full LED headlights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Honda’s satellite-linked navigation system also comes standard with the CR-V Touring, making it easier to go anywhere your heart calls you.
On the interior, the CR-V Touring improves the sound system once again to include nine 330-watt speakers with a subwoofer. This sound system is perfect for long trips across the country or just jamming out to your favorite tunes on a Saturday evening while using the voice-activated radio. Additional features with this trim include wireless device charging and ambient interior lighting.
