2019 Honda CR-V Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

The 2019 model of the CR-V belongs to the fifth generation of this Honda SUV. The CR-V is a crossover SUV with four doors and a rear hatch to access the cargo hold. It offers a roomy interior and can transport up to five passengers. It's been one of the best-selling crossover vehicles on the market for a couple of years now. In 2018, Motor Trend named the CR-V their SUV of the Year.

There isn't a lot that's new for 2019. There are rumors that the CR-V will get a complete makeover for 2020. This current Honda CR-V is largely the same as the 2018 model. This isn't a bad thing, however, as the CR-V was already one of the best SUVs on the market. You still get massive amounts of cargo space and great performance. It does everything that you could need an SUV to do, and it does everything well.

The Honda CR-V offers a fantastic interior. It's spacious, well designed and comfortable. The CR-V provides excellent ride quality. You get a smooth ride from an impressive suspension system. It's also nice and quiet inside of the CR-V. Engine performance is impressive on every trim level. Handling is sporty and athletic. This SUV also offers one of the best fuel-economy ratings in its class.

There are four main trim levels for the Honda CR-V. These are the LX, EX, EX-L and the Touring. There are rumors that we may see a Sport trim package later on in 2019 after the vehicle's initial release. Honda doesn't give you a ton of extra options to add to each level, but the levels progress upwards in a logical fashion. Each model offers the same perks as the previous trim with some added features.

The base model LX offers a very budget-friendly price. Best of all, each successive trim package isn't too much more expensive than the previous model. With so many choices, you may be wondering which one is right for you. Read on to find out, as we will be comparing each trim to the next step up.

Compare the 2019 Honda CR-V LX vs EX Trims. What is the difference?

The Honda CR-V LX is your standard, base model. It comes in at a great price point too. It comes equipped with a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine that cranks out around 184 hp. This is more than adequate for good acceleration and hauling around a full load of cargo. When you step up to the EX, you get a 1.5-liter, turbo 4-cylinder that makes 190 hp with 179 lb-ft of torque.

There may seem to be little difference between the horsepower output of those engines, but this is deceptive. The turbo engine of the EX works with a continuously-variable transmission system to get that power working when it needs to. There is a noticeable improvement in acceleration, speed and performance when you move up to the EX. The differences between an LX and an EX don't just stop at engine performance. The handling and steering dynamics feel better in the EX too. There is an overall better fit and finish in the interior and a more refined ride quality for the EX.

The LX comes with a rear-view camera, automatic climate control and remote entry. Honda also throws in power mirrors and 17-inch alloy wheels. The infotainment system is very basic, but it does provide BlueTooth connectivity and USB ports. Both trim levels give you 60/40 split rear seats for even more storage space. You can opt for AWD on the LX for an additional cost.

The EX has all of the features of the LX and then some. The sound system and stereo get an upgrade. The infotainment console will now have a larger, 7-inch display and touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are also added to the EX for good measure.

Just like the LX, the EX can have AWD as an add-on. As standard equipment, you get remote engine start, Honda Sensing and Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto-Lock. Honda Sensing is a whole suite of driver-assist systems. The auto-lock function engages to lock your doors once you walk a certain distance away from the car with the key fob on you.

For interior comfort, the climate control system is upgraded to a dual-zone climate control for the EX. Now you and all of your passengers can have more evenly applied heat or air conditioning. The driver seat in the EX has a 12-way power adjustment for the perfect, ergonomic fit. The front seats will include a heating function once you move up to this trim level too.

For safety features, the EX adds in more than just the previously mentioned driver assists. You also get Honda's Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor. The high beams of the EX engage automatically when needed. The EX also comes equipped with a power-operated moon roof.

Deciding between the LX and EX will be easy for most consumers. The engine upgrade and better performance alone make it worth the price increase to move up to an EX. The price difference is so small that it's an easy choice. When you throw in all of the other added features, the EX is a fantastic value.

Compare the 2019 CR-V EX vs EX-L Trims. What is the difference?

As is the case with each step in the trim-level ladder, the EX-L has all of the perks of an EX. It simply upgrades or adds new features on top of what was already offered. You'll get the same 1.5-liter, turbo 4-cylinder engine with the EX-L. This means the same performance specs and fuel economy. Once again, the jump in price really isn't much at all. This is especially true when you consider all of the extra benefits.

Once of the first new upgrades you'll notice on the inside of an EX-L is the leather upholstery and trim. The driver seats now have a memory function so you can get them back to just the right spot if someone else has uses your vehicle. You can even store two different positions for the two main drivers who use the car.

The infotainment system gets upgraded again with more connectivity and even more features. The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System is added to the console. The sound system will now be an eight-speaker, premium system with 180 watts of power. If you like to enjoy music as you drive, this package is fantastic.

The side mirrors on the EX-L share the same color as the body of the car. They are now upgraded to heated, power-operated models. They also include integrated distance indicators on this trim level. The tailgate is now power operated for easy loading and unloading.

The EX offers the best value of all of the trim packages. It has most of the good features and perks along with the best available engine. If you need some extras and the more luxurious leather seats, then the EX-L may be right for you.

Compare the CR-V EX-L vs Touring Trims. What is the difference?

The Touring is at the top of the heap when it comes to features, add-ons and luxury appointments. Each step up in price is very reasonable and never too much more than the previous model. At this top-tier, premium level, however, it starts to feel like a significant price increase over the base model LX.

The infotainment system is upgraded once again with even more features and connection options. The EX-L had the amazing 180-watt system. The Touring ups the ante even further with a nine-speaker layout and 330-watts of ear-thumping power. The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System is back once again to help you find your destination.

The interior fit and finish is even nicer than before inside of the Touring model. You get some roof rails for your luggage and Honda's Dual Chrome Exhaust Finishers. The LX had a power-operated tailgate. The Touring model gives you hands-free operation of the tailgate. This makes it easier than ever to load up or unload your goods. Some of the other additions to the Touring are rain-sensing wipers and headlights with auto-shutoff.

The Touring package does add in some nice extras. The best addition for most people will probably be the upgraded sound system. All of the other features are nice perks, but nothing most would miss if they chose an EX-L. The same safety features and performance are available on both vehicles. The EX-L may be the better value here unless you need your music loud.

Compare the CR-V Touring vs Sport Trims. What is the difference?

Honda uses the LX, EX, EX-L and Touring trim levels for more than just the CR-V. This year, most of those other Hondas are getting a Sport trim package added in as well. This gives some credibility to the rumors that there will eventually be a Sport trim for the CR-V as well.

It's hard to know which trim level to compare this theoretical Sport package to. It could fall anywhere on the spectrum when it comes to price and options. Since it will be performance oriented, it may be best to consider it up against the loaded, luxury model that is the Touring trim package.

This will come down to what you want out of your crossover SUV. If you need the highest level of acceleration, performance and handling, the Sport package was meant for you. For everyone else, your primary use of an SUV likely has to do with comfort and utility. You'll get the same cargo space from any model. For extreme comfort, more features and more toys than you'll likely ever need, go with the Touring model.

Final Thoughts

Crossover and compact SUVs have become a huge part of the automotive landscape in North America. They're now one of the most popular vehicle types on the road. This has lead to countless models from every manufacturer hitting the market each year. With such a crowded field, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. You can't go wrong by choosing the Honda CR-V. It's one of the best of the bunch among some stiff competition.

The Honda offers a great balance of price and quality, making it one of the best values in this class of vehicle. It will save you more at the gas pump than much of the competition. The CR-V also has a comfortable interior, a good ride quality and excellent engine performance. The sporty steering dynamics make it a fun car to drive. The question is, which trim level should you choose?

For most buyers, the EX will be the best option out of the main trim levels. The one major exception may be the possible Sport package. This of course depends on what options are included and if this model really makes it to production. If you value high-level performance and handling above all else, the Sport trim could be the way to go.

When it comes to the EX, the price difference between it and the base LX is negligible. The added features and the serious upgrade to the engine make it well worth the small extra cost. It's much more powerful and fuel efficient than the LX. It also gives you most of the common options you could want. You still get all of the most important safety features at this trim level too.

Many of the added features above the EX trim are luxury appointments, creature comforts and other bells and whistles. The price increase each step of the way is minimal, so if you see something you really like, go for it. If you just want the basics with good performance and quality, the EX is your best bet.