The 2014 Honda CR-V is a family vehicle that makes safety and cabin space a top priority. But the compact SUV’s age is beginning to show due to a lack of expected interior options and technology, even on upper trim levels.
Key Points
- The 2014 Honda CR-V’s three trim levels include the basic LX, mid-range EX, and the more upscale EX-L. Average pricing per Kelley Blue Book ranges from about $15,500 on the LX, to roughly $18,900 on EX-L.
- Only one engine/transmission combo is available in all trim levels: a 2.4L inline-four-cylinder paired to a five-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, and all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional across the range.
- CR-V LX offers most necessities, like AC, cruise control, and power windows and locks. EX buyers receive just a few extras, such as a moonroof, and several exterior styling changes.
- Top-trim EX-L has the most interior appointments, but it is still lacking in terms of tech by today’s standards. Regardless, due to the small price difference, it’s still the trim packing the most value.
2014 Honda CR-V LX is a Basic but Safe Vehicle for Families and Commuters Alike
The Honda CR-V LX is the entry-level trim, but it features the same safety engineering and technology as the top-tier EX-L, which includes six standard airbags, traction and stability control, and ABS. Powering all 2014 CR-V models is Honda’s 2.4L naturally aspirated inline-four-cylinder engine paired to a five-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is good for 185 horsepower, 163 lb.-ft. of torque, and up to 31 mpg on the highway (as estimated by the EPA). All-wheel drive is also available as an option on all trims, including the LX, at a cost of one mile per gallon.
Standard features found in the CR-V LX include:
- Single-zone AC
- Four-speaker stereo system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Remote access locks, and power windows with driver’s automatic one-touch up/down
- Cruise control
- Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
No matter the trim, there is generally ample room for gear, with each trim boasting up to 70.9 cu. ft. of cargo space. Given its eight standard cupholders and family-hauler nature, the LX sets itself up as the budget choice for families seeking reliable transportation. Kelley Blue Book fair purchase pricing for a FWD CR-V LX is around $15,500 (estimated with 100,000 miles).
2014 CR-V EX Brings Several Exterior Upgrades but Does not Add Much to the Interior
The biggest distinction from the LX is the standard one-touch power moonroof, while fog lights, body-colored rearview mirrors/door handles, and rear privacy glass round out the exterior upgrades. Interior upgrades are minimal with illuminated vanity mirrors, variable intermittent windshield wipers, and an upgraded six-speaker stereo system rounding out the most notable upgrades. All trims get remote entry, but LX models miss out on a solid security system. If you want your CR-V to alert you of a break-in, you’ll need to opt for the EX.
There is plenty of storage via the driver and front passenger’s seatback pockets, and there’s a standard retractable rear cargo shade. You can expect to spend around $1,400 more on a FWD EX, or as much as $17,500 for AWD.
2014 CR-V EX-L Packs Additional Features Like Upgraded Sound System and Leather Seats at a Minimal Price Increase
While the extra cost of the EX over the LX may be a hard pill to swallow for the short list of interior upgrades, the EX-L makes up for it with more features without costing too much more.
Outside the top-trim CR-V, buyers receive heated rearview mirrors and automatic halogen headlights. Where buyers will really see a return on investment is inside the cabin.
Honda adds expected luxuries like dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather-trimmed seats with driver and front passenger heat, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and an upgraded 328-watt seven-speaker audio system with subwoofer.
EX-L also adds the option for built-in navigation, rear-seat entertainment, and XM Satellite Radio. Buyers can expect to find a FWD EX-L for about $18,400, while an AWD should list for roughly $19,000. This is the trim to get if you enjoy an upgraded interior, though the technology is beginning to show its age with small infotainment screen and lack of active driver safety technology.
2014 Honda CR-V LX and EX-L are the Best Trims, the Former for its Low Cost and the Latter for its Value
While researching the differences offered between trims, the EX trim didn’t really stand out. The interior is practically the same as the entry-level LX with few significant upgrades. This leaves us to recommend the LX for its low-cost entry at about $15,500. With all-wheel drive available alongside all the same standard safety features as all other CR-V trims, CR-V LX is a great value for safe transportation.
If you want a little more than the sparse LX interior, spend a little more and opt for the EX-L to get the most from your money, with luxury touches like heated leather seats, a power moonroof, and an upgraded sound system.
Photos: Honda
