Deciding between the mid-tier options of the 5th gen crv can feel incredibly overwhelming when you want the absolute best value for your hard-earned money. At Vroomdan, we break down the 2021 honda crv ex vs exl to analyze the 2021 honda crv ex vs exl specs and help you unlock the hidden features that many owners do not even know exist.
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
- Clear side-by-side comparison of standard equipment, engine configurations, and real-world fuel economy.
- Honest assessment of used market depreciation values to help you negotiate like a professional.
- Technical deep-dive into direct-injection mechanics and how to handle oil dilution concerns safely.
- Practical DIY guides for frozen infotainment screens, dead key fobs, and custom walk-away locks.
Ultimate Comparison: Analyzing the 2021 Honda CRV EX vs EXL Specs
Finding the right balance between luxury and daily utility is the primary goal of any family SUV buyer.
The 2021 honda crv ex is often praised as the sweet spot of the lineup.
However, the 2021 honda crv exl steps up the luxury with premium cabin materials and upgraded conveniences.
When reviewing the 2021 honda crv ex vs exl specs, you will find both models share the exact same 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine.
This reliable powerplant delivers 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.
You will experience an efficient EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway on front-wheel-drive configurations.
If you choose the all-wheel-drive variants, the efficiency dips slightly to 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
It is highly helpful to inspect the 2021 crv ex vs exl specs side-by-side to determine if the premium features are worth your investment.
Reviewing the 2021 crv ex vs exl specs allows you to see how much car you get for your money.
The initial price premium for the EX-L was roughly $2,500 over the EX when these SUVs sat on the showroom floor.
Today, looking at the used 2021 honda crv ex vs exl specs, that depreciation gap has narrowed significantly to around $1,200 to $1,800.
For many buyers, saving that money feels like a massive relief, but skipping the upgrade might lead to long-term regret.
Let us look closely at the physical differences inside the cabin.
The EX trim offers high-quality, durable cloth seating surfaces.
The EX-L upgrades the cabin experience with plush, genuine leather-trimmed seats.
This material upgrade extends to a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a leather shift knob.
If you frequently travel with family, the leather surfaces are unbelievably easy to clean after accidental juice spills.
Additionally, the EX-L includes a convenient 4-way power-adjustable front passenger seat.
The standard EX only provides a manually adjustable front passenger seat.
Understanding the difference between ex and exl crv 2021 specs also requires looking at the tailgate.
The EX-L features a standard programmable power tailgate that opens at the touch of a button.
This feature prevents the frustrating struggle of loading heavy groceries while your hands are completely full.
The EX requires manual muscle to lift the heavy rear door every single time.
Finally, the EX-L boasts an auto-dimming rearview mirror and an upgraded 8-speaker audio system.
This audio configuration outputs 180 watts compared to the 6-speaker, 160-watt system found in the EX.
To put these details into perspective, let us review the exact physical dimensions.
Both trims feature a total passenger volume of 101.4 cubic feet.
They both offer a generous 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row.
Fold those rear seats flat to unlock an impressive 75.8 cubic feet of total cargo capacity.
These spacious interior specs remain highly competitive against rival SUVs.
Let us summarize this technical data in a clear comparison chart.
| Feature / Spec | 2021 Honda CR-V EX | 2021 Honda CR-V EX-L |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 | 1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 190 hp / 179 lb-ft | 190 hp / 179 lb-ft |
| Seating Material | Premium Cloth | Genuine Leather-Trimmed |
| Power Tailgate | No (Manual) | Yes (Programmable Power) |
| Front Passenger Seat | 4-way Manual | 4-way Power-Adjustable |
| Audio System | 6-speakers, 160-watts | 8-speakers, 180-watts |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview | No | Yes |
Whether you select the EX or the EX-L, you will benefit from standard Honda Sensing safety features.
This safety suite includes Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
For those looking at a wider range of options, we have analyzed the baseline 2021 honda crv lx as well.
If you want premium features like a hands-free tailgate and wireless charging, look toward the top-tier 2021 honda crv touring instead.
To check realistic current pricing, make sure to evaluate the 2021 honda crv kbb resale values.
Let us transition to the deeper mechanical systems of this vehicle.
Decoding the 1.5L Turbo Engine Performance and Oil Dilution Concerns
Let us address the mechanical heart of these two mid-level SUVs.
The direct-injected 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is standard across both trims.
While reviewing the 2021 crv ex vs ex l specs, engine mechanics should be top of mind.
According to ASE Certified Mechanics, direct-injection engines can sometimes suffer from oil dilution.
This phenomenon occurs when unburnt fuel passes by the piston rings and mixes with the engine oil.
It typically happens during short winter commutes when the engine cannot reach its optimal operating temperature.
The official Honda Service Manual recommends frequent oil changes to prevent premature wear on the internal engine components.
If you ignore this issue, it can lead to catastrophic engine failure that will drain your bank account.
Fortunately, Honda released software updates to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to mitigate this problem in later model years.
Ensure your used vehicle has all outstanding dealership recalls and product updates fully completed.
A diligent owner always pulls the engine dipstick once a month to check for a strong smell of gasoline in the oil.
Regular mechanical checkups will keep your vehicle running smoothly for decades to come.
Troubleshooting the 7-Inch Display Audio and Walk Away Auto Lock Setup
Modern vehicle electronics can occasionally cause annoying glitches that frustrate even the most patient driver.
Both the EX and EX-L trims come equipped with a standard 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen.
This interface supports wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
If your screen suddenly freezes or refuses to recognize your phone, do not panic.
You can perform a manual system reboot without visiting a dealership.
Press and hold the physical audio power button for ten seconds.
A prompt will appear asking if you want to reboot the system.
Tap “Yes” to refresh the software and clear the system cache.
This simple DIY fix will save you from the exhausting hassle of a diagnostic appointment.
Let us also configure the incredibly convenient Walk Away Auto Lock feature.
Access the settings menu on your central touchscreen display.
Select “Settings,” then click on “Vehicle,” and choose “Door Setup.”
Scroll down to “Walk Away Auto Lock” and toggle the feature to the “On” position.
When you exit the vehicle with your key fob and walk past the sensor boundary, the doors will lock automatically.
It provides an incredible peace of mind as you walk into a busy grocery store.
What happens if your key fob battery completely dies and leaves you stranded?
You can pull out the integrated physical metal key from the back of the fob casing to manually unlock the door.
To start the engine, hold the dead key fob directly against the push-button engine start switch.
The passive transponder inside the dead key fob will signal the immobilizer to let the engine roar to life.
Practical DIY Maintenance Guide and Cost-Saving Measures
Maintaining your vehicle at home is the best way to bypass exorbitant dealership labor fees.
When comparing the honda crv ex l vs ex 2021 specs, both share identical routine maintenance intervals.
Changing your engine oil requires 3.7 quarts of high-quality 0W-20 synthetic oil.
Always swap the oil filter with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part to guarantee an exact seal.
You should replace the cabin air filter behind the glovebox every 15,000 miles.
Doing this simple replacement yourself takes less than five minutes.
Buying the filter online costs under fifteen dollars, while a dealer may charge you sixty dollars for the labor.
It is a simple win that makes you feel like a master home mechanic.
We also recommend inspecting the engine air filter located under the hood during every oil change.
Keeping these filters clean ensures optimal engine breathing and maximum fuel economy.
Regular brake inspections can also save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding worn rotors.
Overcoming Common DIY Mistakes
Even experienced DIYers can make small mistakes that lead to expensive repairs.
The most critical mistake is using generic transmission fluid in your continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The 2021 CR-V CVT demands genuine Honda HCF-2 fluid exclusively.
Using any other brand can cause severe belt slippage and ruin the entire transmission assembly.
Another common error involves breaking the fragile plastic trim clips during cabin filter changes.
Always use a dedicated plastic trim removal tool to prevent scratching the dashboard.
Be careful when changing the engine spark plugs.
The aluminum cylinder head can easily strip if you overtighten the plugs without a torque wrench.
Always reference the torque specs in your official owner’s manual before tightening any safety-critical bolts.
Never rush your work when working on sensitive vehicle safety components.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Does the used 2021 honda crv ex vs exl specs difference include a panoramic sunroof?**
No, both the EX and EX-L trims come with a standard one-pane power moonroof instead of a large panoramic unit.
**Can I run regular 87 octane unleaded gasoline in the turbo engine?**
Yes, the 1.5L turbocharged engine is designed to run perfectly on regular 87 octane unleaded fuel.
**Will doing my own oil changes void the factory warranty?**
No, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects your right to perform DIY maintenance.
Always keep physical receipts for your oil and filters to prove the service was completed on time.
**How can I make sure my Walk Away Auto Lock is working?**
Listen for a single quick beep when you close all doors, followed by a second beep as you walk past the sensor range.
“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
Choosing between the EX and EX-L comes down to your desire for premium leather and power tailgate convenience.
Both models offer outstanding reliability, space, and efficiency.
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.