2026 Honda CR-V EX vs 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
CR-V EX starts at $33,950, $5,900 less. CR-V Sport Touring leads with 37 MPG. CR-V Sport Touring makes 204 hp (+14).
| Spec | 2026 Honda CR-V EX | 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,950 Save $5,900 | $39,850 +$5,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo | 2.0L Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 190 hp 14 hp less | 204 hp +14 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | eCVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 12 less | 40 +12 |
| Hwy MPG | 34 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 30 7 less | 37 +7 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 36.3 cu ft | 36.3 cu ft |
| Screen | 9.0" | 9.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,576 lbs | 3,830 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 106.3" |
| Length | 184.8" | 184.8" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Honda Sensing | Honda Sensing |
Which Trim Is Best?
The CR-V EX delivers value; the CR-V Sport Touring adds features worth $5,900.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda CR-V EX and 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring?
Which gets better gas mileage, the CR-V EX or CR-V Sport Touring?
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V EX worth it, or should I upgrade to Sport Touring?
What features does the Sport Touring have that the EX doesn't?
Do the EX and Sport Touring have the same engine?
Which 2026 Honda CR-V trim has the best resale value?
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V a good car?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Honda CR-V EX?
Who Should Choose the EX
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX is the right pick for buyers who prioritize value and don't need every available feature. At $33,950, it delivers the core CR-V experience — the same platform, the same 1.5L Turbo engine, and the same safety suite — without the cost of extras that many drivers rarely use.
If your driving is primarily commuting and errands, and you'd rather put the $5,900 price difference toward other expenses, the EX makes a strong case. Budget-conscious buyers and those buying for reliability rather than luxury will feel well-served here.
Who Should Choose the Sport Touring
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring targets buyers willing to spend $5,900 more for a more complete package. That premium buys 14 more horsepower — features you'll interact with regularly, not just once at the dealership.
The Sport Touring appeals to buyers who want their suv to feel a step above the base experience. If resale value matters, higher trims also tend to hold their value better as a percentage of MSRP. See how other CR-V trims compare: CR-V EX vs CR-V EX-L, CR-V EX vs CR-V Sport-L, CR-V EX-L vs CR-V Sport-L.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $5,900 gap between the EX and Sport Touring comes down to equipment and trim-level positioning. Specifically, the Sport Touring adds 14 more horsepower.
There is also a performance difference: the CR-V Sport Touring produces 204 hp versus 190 hp, which translates to noticeable acceleration differences.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Most technology-focused buyers won't find a dramatic difference between these trims — the core infotainment and safety tech carries across the lineup.
Casual drivers who use their suv primarily for commuting may find the trims feel very similar once underway. The differences are most apparent when you first get in, adjust settings, and interact with the cabin.
When Both Trims Feel the Same
On the highway at 65 mph, these two trims deliver an identical experience. Same engine note, same ride quality, same safety features active in the background. The CR-V's fundamental driving character doesn't change between the EX and Sport Touring.
Both trims also share the same warranty coverage, the same crash-test ratings, and access to the same dealer service network. If your priority is getting from A to B in a reliable, efficient suv, either trim accomplishes that equally well. The choice ultimately comes down to how much the in-cabin experience matters to your daily satisfaction with the vehicle.