Honda-Tech - Honda Forum Discussion

Honda Accord: Specifications by Trim

As you head out to shop for your Accord, it's important you understand some Honda lingo. Read below for a breakdown.

By Jerry Perez - February 23, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Accord DX, EX, and LX (1990-2002).

The Honda Accord is a constant winner of many industry awards. Year after year, the Honda Accord offers exceptional quality and reliability, which is likely the reason it has been awarded the "Best Resale Value" by Kelley Blue Book. Most car experts would say that it offers more than people need. The trim equipment greatly differentiate. The Accords are also offered as a Coupe and Sedan. So to know exactly which Accord to get, you should understand what the DX, EX, and LX trims represent.

Honda Accord DX

The DX trim designates as an entry level Accord. Depending on the year, this trim may not include any power options such as power windows or locks, and is only powered by a 4-cylinder engine. However, amenities such as air conditioning and a CD player are factory options with this trim. While this is the "bare-bones" Accord, it delivers the basics that a lot of car owners desire for their daily commute.

  • Figure 1. 1995 Honda Accord DX.
  • Figure 2. 2000 Honda Accord DX.

Pro Tip

Many consumer reports and forums claim that 2000 and later year Honda Accords suffer from transmission reliability. If your desired Accord has more than 100,000 miles, make sure to review its transmission maintenance records.

Honda Accord EX

The EX Accord trim is a step-up from the DX. It comes standard with a 4-cylinder engine, but a 6-cylinder engine is optional. Standard equipment includes A/C, CD player, a power sliding, tilting sunroof, as well as power window and locks. Some safety components are also upgraded, such as 4-wheel ABS and disc brakes. While it isn't quite as luxurious as the LX, the EX trim offers more amenities and features than entry-level Accords. Plus, it is one of the most sought after pre-owned Hondas.

  • Figure 3. 2000 Honda Accord EX.
  • Figure 4. 2000 Honda Accord EX interior.

Pro Tips

  • Some popular EX models are equipped with leather seats.
  • Three out of five Honda Accords sold are EX models.

Honda Accord LX

The acronym for the Honda Accord's LX trim stands for "Luxury." This model comes equipped with a 6-cylinder VTEC engine that offers variable valve timing for better engine performance and fuel mileage. Alloy wheels, color-painted handles, and side mirrors are also nice touches that make the Accord look classier. Some comfort features include eight-way adjustable seats and a leather steering wheel. The LX offers all the features and comfort that most would consider a necessity.

  • Figure 5. 1992 Honda Accord LX.
  • Figure 6. 2002 Honda Accord LX.
  • Figure 7. 2002 Honda Accord LX interior.

Pro Tip

The Honda Accord LX offers a gold trim (instead of the standard silver), which extends to all LX Accord emblems. This has been an LX model feature by Honda since the first generation Accords were built. While most underlying issues are isolated to the transmission, there has also been some issues with the electrical system that powers dashboard lighting and has been seen in all Accord models.

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