Welcome to Vroomdan, your trusted mechanic resource for unlocking the full performance of your family SUV. When shopping for a used compact SUV, understanding the exact honda crv lx vs ex 2019 specs can save you from making a costly mistake at the dealership. Many buyers overlook subtle mechanical and electronic differences that impact long-term reliability and daily comfort. Let us dive deep into the technical specifications and reveal the hidden features that many owners do not know about.
Your CR-V has a secret trick that starts the SUV when your key fob dies.
And 14 other things Honda never told you.
Dead fob fix · Global window down trick · The hidden folding picnic table · Walk Away Auto Lock · and 11 more.
▶ Read Now — Show Me Everything
bryansgarage.com · Bryan Mark
In This Guide
- Learn the engine variations and differences between the 2.4L and 1.5L plants
- Compare standard cabin amenities and driver display interfaces
- Identify hidden safety sensor differences on modern highways
- Avoid common DIY repair mistakes that cost family budgets
Decoding the honda crv lx vs ex 2019 specs
Choosing between the base model and the mid-tier option requires looking closely at the mechanical engineering.
The 2019 honda crv lx relies on a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.
This powerplant produces 184 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque.
On the other side, the 2019 honda crv ex features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.
This turbocharged engine delivers 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque at lower engine speeds.
You will experience a noticeable difference in highway merging power and overall fuel economy.
For budget-conscious families, evaluating the 2019 honda crv kbb values helps determine if the price jump is worth your hard-earned money.
The EX trim level also introduces the complete suite of Honda Sensing safety features.
This advanced driver assist technology is entirely missing from the standard LX base model.
Understanding the difference between lx and ex crv 2019 specs will help you make a wise purchasing decision.
Let us organize these critical physical differences into a clear comparison table.
| Specification Metric | LX Base Trim | EX Trim Level |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 2.4L 4-Cylinder (Naturally Aspirated) | 1.5L 4-Cylinder (Turbocharged) |
| Horsepower Output | 184 hp @ 6,400 RPM | 190 hp @ 5,600 RPM |
| Torque Output | 180 lb-ft @ 3,900 RPM | 179 lb-ft @ 2,000 – 5,000 RPM |
| Fuel Economy (FWD) | 26 City / 32 Hwy / 28 Combined MPG | 28 City / 34 Hwy / 30 Combined MPG |
| Infotainment Screen | 5.0-inch LCD Display | 7.0-inch Display Audio Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Not Available | Standard Feature |
| Safety Tech Suite | Basic Cruise Control and Safety Features | Honda Sensing Suite Standard |
This data illustrates that the EX trim is not just an aesthetic upgrade.
The turbocharged engine delivers peak torque much earlier in the RPM range.
This means you do not have to press the gas pedal as hard to accelerate up steep hills.
It can feel incredibly frustrating to drive an underpowered vehicle when your family cargo is fully loaded.
The EX solves this problem by providing excellent low-end power delivery.
Additionally, the EX trim includes the larger 7-inch display screen with modern smartphone integration.
The base LX screen is small and lacks the navigation convenience that modern families rely on daily.
This comparison confirms why many used buyers search specifically for the upgraded model.
Let us explore how these models compare on the pre-owned market today.
A used 2019 honda crv lx vs ex specs comparison reveals that the price gap on the pre-owned market has narrowed significantly.
This narrow price gap makes the EX trim an exceptional value choice for smart shoppers.
Mechanical Reliability of 1.5L Turbo vs 2.4L Engines
As a master mechanic, I look past the brochure to evaluate the actual mechanical durability of these engines.
The 2.4-liter engine in the LX is an Earth Dreams dual overhead cam engine.
It is one of the most reliable and bulletproof designs Honda has ever manufactured.
It uses port and direct fuel injection and does not suffer from complex modern emissions issues.
If you prefer simple mechanics and long-term peace of mind, this engine is an outstanding choice.
However, you must look closely at the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine in the EX model.
This turbocharged engine has faced reports of engine oil dilution in colder driving climates.
Oil dilution occurs when unburnt fuel passes past the piston rings and enters the engine oil pan.
If you ignore this issue, it can lead to premature engine wear and reduced bearing life.
Fortunately, Honda released a software update for the engine control module to mitigate this problem.
This update alters the engine warming cycle to help burn off excess fuel vapor quickly.
Before purchasing an EX, ensure that the previous owner completed this vital recall work at a certified dealership.
Knowing this key difference between lx and ex crv 2019 specs will protect you from unexpected repair bills.
You should always check the service records for oil changes completed at least every 5,000 miles.
Regular maintenance is the single best way to ensure your engine lasts for decades.
Hidden Electronics and Safety Systems in the 5th Gen CR-V
The safety and convenience systems on these two trim levels are worlds apart.
The EX trim features the full Honda Sensing suite as a standard safety inclusion.
This suite includes Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
It also features Lane Keeping Assist to keep you safely centered in your highway lane.
These advanced sensors provide unbelievable peace of mind when driving during heavy rainstorms or long road trips.
The LX trim only offers basic cruise control without any of these active safety sensors.
Another incredible feature on the EX model is the Walk Away Auto Lock system.
This system automatically locks your vehicle doors when you walk away with the key fob in your pocket.
Many owners do not realize they must enable this setting manually in the vehicle settings menu.
You can activate this feature by navigating to Settings, selecting Vehicle, and turning on Walk Away Auto Lock.
It brings incredible relief to know your vehicle is secure even if you forget to press the lock button.
Furthermore, the EX trim includes the smart entry system with a convenient push-button start engine.
This system means you never have to fish your keys out of a heavy purse or pocket again.
If your key fob battery dies unexpectedly, you can still start the engine easily.
Simply hold the dead key fob directly against the engine start button while pressing the brake pedal.
The vehicle will read the transponder chip inside the dead fob and start the engine immediately.
This trick saves you from the panic of being stranded in a dark parking lot.
Reviewing these 2019 crv lx vs ex specs comparison points shows how much daily convenience the EX trim adds.
Practical Maintenance Guide and CVT Longevity Rules
Both the LX and EX trims use a Continuously Variable Transmission to deliver smooth power.
The CVT requires proper fluid maintenance to prevent expensive transmission slippage or failure.
You must change the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles to keep the internal drive belt healthy.
Always use genuine Honda HCF-2 fluid to avoid damaging the sensitive internal hydraulic valves.
Using generic transmission fluids is a recipe for catastrophic transmission damage.
For the turbocharged engine, you should use high-quality full synthetic 0W-20 engine oil.
Change your oil filter during every single oil change to prevent oil dilution bypass issues.
Always buy OEM Honda oil filters to ensure the correct internal bypass pressure settings.
These simple preventative maintenance steps will save you thousands of dollars in professional mechanic fees.
Checking these 2019 crv lx vs ex specifications will help you understand the maintenance demands of each engine.
Overcoming Common DIY Repair and Maintenance Mistakes
Many DIY enthusiasts make easy mistakes when servicing their fifth-generation Honda CR-V.
One common mistake is using incorrect oil weights because of confusing forum advice.
Always check the oil cap under the hood to verify the exact engine oil specification for your specific trim.
Another error involves damaging the delicate plastic clips when replacing cabin and engine air filters.
Take your time and use a proper plastic pry tool to avoid breaking these expensive clips.
Additionally, some owners try to jump-start their vehicle with incorrect cable placement.
Always attach the negative ground cable to the bare engine metal chassis rather than the negative battery post.
This correct grounding protocol protects the sensitive vehicle computer systems from power surges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2019 Honda CR-V LX have Apple CarPlay?
No, the 2019 Honda CR-V LX does not include Apple CarPlay or Android Auto capability.
It comes equipped with a basic 5-inch screen and a standard Bluetooth audio connection.
To get smartphone integration, you must upgrade to the EX trim level which features the larger 7-inch display.
Is the 1.5L turbocharged engine reliable in the 2019 CR-V EX?
Yes, the 1.5L turbocharged engine is highly reliable when properly maintained with regular oil changes.
Ensure that the dealership has completed all engine software updates related to oil dilution prevention.
Changing your engine oil every 5,000 miles is highly recommended to protect the turbocharger bearings.
What is the difference between the EX, EX-L, and Touring trims?
The 2019 honda crv exl adds luxury leather seating and a power tailgate to the EX features.
The top-tier 2019 honda crv touring adds a premium hands-free tailgate, LED headlights, and built-in navigation.
All of these upper trims belong to the reliable 5th gen crv family of SUVs.
“I’ve driven a CR-V for 4 years and didn’t know this existed.”
— The most common reaction when this article is shared
Did you know your backup camera has a hidden top-down ‘drone view’? Or that your cruise control automatically downshifts on steep mountain hills to save your brakes?
bryansgarage.com · Bryan Mark
Conclusion
Whether you choose the ultra-reliable LX or the feature-packed EX, both models provide outstanding utility.
Understanding these mechanical specs empowers you to buy with complete confidence.
Ready to get the most out of your SUV? Check out more guides on Vroomdan or email us at contact@vroomdan.com — our team is here to help you discover more SUV secrets and maintenance guides.
Disclaimer: Always consult your official Honda Owner’s Manual before performing any DIY modifications. Information provided is for educational purposes and depends on specific vehicle model years, trim levels, and individual modifications.