When shopping for a family SUV, decoding the official 2022 honda crv ex vs exl specs can feel like navigating an expensive dealership maze. At Vroomdan, we believe you should never pay a premium for features you do not understand or need. Finding the perfect balance between daily utility and modern comfort is simpler when you look closely at what these mid-tier trims actually offer, including some incredible hidden features that many owners don’t 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
- Direct side-by-side comparison of the core mechanical specifications and safety ratings.
- Inside look at premium cabin upgrades, speaker systems, and seating materials.
- Expert troubleshooting steps to reboot your infotainment system at home.
- Real-world buying advice for used vehicle buyers watching their budget.
2022 Honda CRV EX vs EXL Specs: The Ultimate Trim Comparison
Deciding between the mid-tier options of the 5th gen crv can be highly confusing for used car buyers.
Many drivers end up paying extra for upgrades they do not actually use.
Let us look closely at the 2022 honda crv exl and compare it to the 2022 honda crv ex.
Both trims rely on the same robust mechanical architecture and structural foundation.
They both feature the 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine.
This powerplant produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.
However, the real differences lie in premium cabin appointments, convenience features, and used market value.
Understanding the exact 2022 crv ex vs exl specs helps you avoid overpaying at the dealership.
The EX-L introduces genuine leather seating surfaces to replace the durable cloth found in the EX.
You also receive a highly convenient power tailgate with programmable height adjustment.
If you have family members of different heights, the EX-L’s two-position driver’s memory seat is an absolute lifesaver.
The front passenger also gains a 4-way power-adjustable seat, eliminating the frustration of manual levers.
Inside the cabin, the EX-L upgrades your listening experience with a premium 8-speaker, 330-watt audio system.
This is a major step up from the standard 6-speaker system found in the EX trim.
Additionally, the auto-dimming rearview mirror prevents blinding glare from modern LED headlights behind you.
When looking at the difference between ex and exl crv 2022 specs, these comfort upgrades justify the original $2,590 price premium for luxury-focused buyers.
Let us break down the key technical specifications in a detailed, side-by-side comparison table.
| Feature Specification | 2022 Honda CR-V EX Trim | 2022 Honda CR-V EX-L Trim |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Material | High-Grade Durable Fabric | Leather-Trimmed Seating Surfaces |
| Power Tailgate | Manual Liftgate Only | Power Tailgate (Height-Programmable) |
| Audio System | 180-Watt, 6-Speaker System | 330-Watt, 8-Speaker System with Subwoofer |
| Driver’s Seat Memory | Not Available | 2-Position Memory System |
| Passenger Seat | 4-Way Manual Adjustment | 4-Way Power Adjustment |
| Rearview Mirror | Manual Day/Night Mirror | Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror |
| Original MSRP (Starting) | $28,610 | $31,200 |
Analyzing the honda crv ex l vs ex 2022 specs reveals that the EX-L is designed for drivers who crave premium comfort.
However, both models share the exact same fuel economy ratings.
Front-wheel-drive models achieve an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
All-wheel-drive models drop slightly to 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
This means your ongoing fuel costs will be completely identical regardless of the trim you choose.
The choice comes down to whether you want to pay extra for comfort on your daily commute.
Mechanical Analysis: Engine Reliability and AWD Performance
Both trims utilize the direct-injected 1.5L Turbo engine, internally designated by Honda as the L15BY series.
According to the official Honda service manual, this engine features a dual overhead cam (DOHC) design with dual Variable Timing Control (VTC).
This advanced setup ensures optimal fuel delivery and maximum torque at low engine speeds.
However, many used 2022 honda crv ex vs exl specs shoppers express concern over oil dilution issues common in earlier model years.
By 2022, Honda engineers updated the engine control unit (ECU) software and improved the thermal management system.
This software update ensures the engine warms up much faster during short winter commutes, reducing unburnt fuel seepage.
Our lead mechanics at Team Vroomdan advise changing your engine oil every 5,000 miles to prevent potential fuel dilution problems.
If you regularly drive in cold climates, checking your oil level weekly provides complete peace of mind.
Both trims offer the optional Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System.
This system uses an electronic multi-plate clutch to send power to the rear wheels when front-wheel slippage is detected.
It operates seamlessly without any driver intervention required, making it perfect for rainy or snowy road trips.
For maximum drivetrain longevity, always replace the dual-pump fluid in the rear differential every 30,000 miles.
Skipping this cheap preventative service can lead to a horrifying grinding noise during sharp turns.
How to Troubleshoot and Reset Your CR-V Infotainment System
A common headache for modern SUV owners is a frozen Apple CarPlay or Android Auto screen.
You do not need to make a frustrating and expensive trip to the dealership to solve this digital glitch.
You can force-reboot the 7-inch Display Audio system directly from the driver’s seat.
To do this, simply press and hold the physical audio power button for ten seconds.
A prompt will appear asking if you want to reboot the system.
Select “Yes” to clear the system’s temporary cache and restore your Bluetooth connection instantly.
If the screen remains completely unresponsive, you can access the hidden diagnostic menu.
With the ignition on, hold the power, menu, and brightness buttons simultaneously for three seconds.
This menu lets you clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) without paying a technician.
Knowing these simple steps brings immense relief when technology fails far from home.
This is just one of many ways you can take control of your vehicle’s electronics without special tools.
Evaluating Used Market Value and Safety Features
When browsing the pre-owned market, evaluating the 2022 honda crv kbb value is crucial.
A used EX-L typically holds a slight premium of $1,500 to $2,000 over a comparable EX model.
The premium is highly justified if you value leather seats and the motorized rear tailgate.
But if you prioritize pure mechanical utility, the EX offers identical performance and driving dynamics.
Both trims come standard with the comprehensive Honda Sensing safety suite.
This suite includes the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM).
It also features Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS).
It is important to note that neither trim includes rear parking sensors as a standard factory feature.
Many buyers are surprised to find this omission on a premium EX-L model.
However, you can have OEM parking sensors installed by a local shop to avoid dealership markups.
Comparing the 2022 crv ex vs ex l specs shows that both models score perfect five-star safety ratings from the NHTSA.
If you are looking at a used 2022 honda crv ex vs exl specs sheet, remember that the structural crash safety is exactly identical.
Avoiding Common DIY Mistakes on Your 2022 CR-V
Performing basic maintenance at home is a great way to save money and connect with your vehicle.
However, simple errors can lead to incredibly costly repairs down the road.
Always use genuine Honda HCF-2 fluid when performing a continuously variable transmission (CVT) fluid change.
Using generic transmission fluid will damage the delicate steel belt and ruin the transmission.
Additionally, never use a standard battery charger on the CR-V’s sophisticated electrical system without disconnecting the negative terminal.
The vehicle utilizes an intelligent battery sensor (IBS) on the negative terminal clamp.
A power surge can easily destroy this delicate sensor, triggering multiple warning lights on your dashboard.
When changing the engine air filter, be extremely careful not to strip the plastic housing screws.
These plastic tabs are notoriously fragile and expensive to replace as complete assemblies.
Using a manual screwdriver instead of an electric drill prevents this annoying headache entirely.
We see far too many owners break these tabs and suffer from engine vacuum leaks afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the leather in the 2022 Honda CR-V EX-L real?
Yes, the seating surfaces in the EX-L trim feature genuine leather trim on the front seats and outer rear seats.
The sides and backs of the seats utilize durable synthetic materials to handle daily wear and tear.
Does the 2022 CR-V EX have a power tailgate?
No, the EX trim comes with a manually operated rear liftgate.
You must upgrade to the EX-L or the premium 2022 honda crv touring to receive the power tailgate.
Can I install the Walk Away Auto Lock feature on the EX trim?
You do not need to install anything because the feature is already built into both the EX and EX-L trims.
You can easily enable this setting using the vehicle’s central touchscreen menu under vehicle settings.
What is the difference between the EX and the base LX trim?
The base 2022 honda crv lx lacks many creature comforts found in the EX.
The EX adds a sunroof, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, and the larger 7-inch infotainment touchscreen.
What is the exact difference between ex and exl crv 2022 specs when it comes to wheel size?
Both trims share the exact same 18-inch alloy wheels with gray inserts, meaning there is no difference between ex and exl crv 2022 specs regarding tire and wheel dimensions.
“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 value-packed EX or the premium EX-L, both trims deliver top-tier reliability and daily driving comfort.
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.