When shopping for a family SUV, decoding the honda crv lx vs ex 2020 specs is the ultimate way to avoid overpaying at the dealership. We at Vroomdan believe you deserve real mechanical clarity before signing any paperwork. Do not let fast-talking salespeople pressure you into an expensive upgrade before you understand the actual mechanical differences and hidden capabilities of these models. In fact, both of these trims hide incredible factory features that most owners never discover.
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
- Detailed structural and mechanical specifications comparison for the 2020 LX and EX models.
- A professional breakdown of the shared 1.5-liter turbocharged engine platform.
- Practical guides to troubleshooting infotainment glitches and charging systems.
- Expert DIY maintenance tips to help you avoid expensive mechanics.
Decoding the honda crv lx vs ex 2020 specs and Core Features
Let us solve the primary question on your mind right now.
For the 2020 model year, Honda made a massive change that altered the used market forever.
They dropped the old 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine from the base trim.
Now, both the LX and EX share the exact same 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.
This mechanical shift means you get 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque regardless of which badge is on the tailgate.
However, the 2020 honda crv lx lacks several critical conveniences that make daily driving a pleasure.
The LX comes with a basic 5-inch color radio screen without touch capability.
Stepping up to the 2020 honda crv ex secures a beautiful 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen.
This screen includes full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
It can be deeply frustrating to buy a modern SUV only to realize you cannot use your favorite map apps on the dashboard.
The EX also adds heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and a power sunroof.
Understanding the difference between lx and ex crv 2020 specs can save you thousands of dollars in regret.
To help you visualize these differences, let us examine the complete 2020 crv lx vs ex specs comparison table compiled directly from Honda service literature.
| Specification Feature | 2020 Honda CR-V LX Specs | 2020 Honda CR-V EX Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Configuration | 1.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder | 1.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower / Torque | 190 hp / 179 lb-ft | 190 hp / 179 lb-ft |
| Infotainment Interface | 5-Inch LCD Color Screen | 7-Inch Display Audio Touchscreen |
| Smartphone Integration | Bluetooth & USB Only | Apple CarPlay & Android Auto |
| Active Safety Tech | Honda Sensing Suite | Honda Sensing + Blind Spot Info |
| Standard Wheel Package | 17-Inch Styled Steel Wheels | 18-inch Machine-Finished Alloys |
| Smart Entry System | Traditional Key Fob | Proximity Key with Auto Lock |
| Curb Weight (FWD / AWD) | 3,307 lbs / 3,428 lbs | 3,389 lbs / 3,512 lbs |
This data illustrates that the mechanical core of both vehicles is virtually identical.
The actual differences lie in technology, convenience features, and wheel packages.
Many used car buyers feel completely overwhelmed trying to figure out if the price premium for the EX is worth their hard-earned money.
Let us look deeper into the structural features.
Analyzing the 1.5L Turbocharged Engine and Transmission Specs
Let us analyze what is happening under the hood of these machines.
Both trims utilize the highly reliable L15B7 engine block.
This is a highly efficient, dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) engine with direct fuel injection.
The engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that maximizes fuel efficiency.
According to the official Honda service manual, this CVT uses a steel drive belt and two variable-width pulleys to change gear ratios seamlessly.
Some owners of the 5th gen crv express concern about early engine oil dilution issues.
This issue occurred when unburnt fuel bypassed the piston rings and mixed with engine oil during short winter trips.
Fortunately, by the 2020 model year, Honda engineers updated the engine control unit (ECU) software and hot-climate parameters to resolve this flaw.
As a preventative measure, Team Vroomdan recommends changing your engine oil every 5,000 miles instead of waiting for the Maintenance Minder.
This simple DIY habit will give you incredible peace of mind over the lifespan of your vehicle.
Let us examine the entry-level trim closely to see if it fits your lifestyle.
If you look at the used 2020 honda crv lx vs ex specs, you will note that the LX weighs about 82 pounds less than the EX.
This lower curb weight is due to the absence of a power sunroof assembly and heavy power seat motors.
As a result, the LX feels slightly more agile in tight cornering situations.
However, you lose out on the alloy wheels and modern tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) calibration upgrades.
The LX rides on basic styled steel wheels with plastic hubcaps that look dated.
These steel wheels are highly durable against winter potholes, but they lack the premium aesthetic appeal of the EX alloy wheels.
Understanding these 2020 crv lx vs ex specifications allows you to plan your long-term modifications wisely.
How to Reboot Your HondaLink Display Audio and Fix Common Tech Glitches
One major technical difference between lx and ex crv 2020 specs is the infotainment head unit.
The EX features the premium 7-inch Display Audio system that supports smartphone casting.
This system runs on an Android-based operating system that occasionally experiences software freezes or Bluetooth disconnection bugs.
It can be infuriatingly stressful when your screen goes black or your backup camera freezes mid-reverse.
Dealerships often charge a diagnostics fee of $150 just to look at a glitching screen.
You do not need to pay that fee because you can fix it yourself.
You can reboot the system in your driveway without any tools.
To perform a hard reboot on the EX head unit, press and hold the physical audio power button located on the top left of the screen for ten seconds.
A prompt will appear on the screen asking if you want to reboot the system.
Select “Yes” and allow the system to clear its temporary cache memory.
This simple trick solves 90% of Apple CarPlay connection drops instantly.
Let us take a look at the EX trim in detail.
The EX is where Honda packs their best comfort technologies for families.
The smart entry system on the EX includes capacitive touch sensors behind the front door handles.
It also includes the Walk Away Auto Lock system to keep your vehicle secure.
If you are shopping the used market, you should also consider the 2020 honda crv exl or the range-topping 2020 honda crv touring if your budget allows.
But for most families, the standard EX provides the perfect sweet spot of features.
Practical Maintenance Guide for the 2020 CR-V Charging System
Whether you choose the LX or the EX, proper battery maintenance is vital.
Modern CR-Vs demand a high electrical load due to the electric power steering and the Honda Sensing safety suite.
The 2020 crv lx vs ex specs show that both models utilize a Group 51R battery from the factory.
This battery is relatively small for an SUV of this size.
If you do not drive your car for several days, the parasitic draw from the security system can drain the battery quickly.
To avoid the panic and frustration of a dead vehicle on a cold morning, test your battery voltage regularly.
A healthy battery should read 12.6 volts when the engine is completely off.
If your key fob battery dies unexpectedly, you can still start your vehicle.
Simply hold the dead key fob directly against the push-button start switch while pressing the brake pedal.
The transponder chip inside the key fob will communicate with the car even without battery power.
This simple mechanical backup system ensures you will never be left stranded.
How to Avoid Costly DIY Fluid Mistakes on Your CR-V
Many DIY mechanics make critical mistakes when servicing their own 5th-generation CR-Vs.
The most common mistake is using generic transmission fluid.
Your 2020 CR-V requires genuine Honda HCF-2 Continuously Variable Transmission fluid.
Using standard automatic transmission fluid will destroy the CVT drive belt within a few thousand miles.
This mistake leads to an eye-watering repair bill of over $5,000 for a transmission replacement.
Another mistake is failing to service the rear differential fluid on All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) models.
The rear differential requires Honda Dual Pump Fluid II.
If you hear a groaning noise from the rear of your vehicle while making sharp turns, your differential fluid is likely degraded.
Changing this fluid yourself is a straightforward task that takes under thirty minutes.
Always clear the metal debris off the magnetic drain plug before re-inserting it.
Using OEM fluids preserves your warranty and keeps your family safe on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is a better value on the used market: the 2020 LX or EX?
The EX is significantly better value because it includes the 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Buying an LX and attempting to upgrade the screen with aftermarket parts is highly complicated and often breaks the backup camera integration.
Do both the 2020 LX and EX have Honda Sensing safety features?
Yes, both trims come standard with the Honda Sensing suite.
However, the EX adds the blind-spot information system with cross-traffic monitor which is a massive safety boost for highway driving.
Check the 2020 honda crv kbb values to see how this affects used car pricing in your local area.
Can I upgrade the wheels of my 2020 LX to the EX alloy wheels?
Yes, you can bolt the 18-inch EX alloy wheels directly onto the LX chassis.
Both trims share the same 5×114.3 wheel bolt pattern and hub bore diameter.
“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
Understanding the specifications of your 2020 CR-V is the ultimate way to master your vehicle’s maintenance and avoid overpriced dealership repair traps.
Team Vroomdan is here to guide you through every DIY step.
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.