Drivers shopping for a compact SUV in 2022 quickly discover that the 2022 Honda CR-V EX represents one of the most balanced choices on the market. This specific trim level sits above the reliable base models and adds technology, comfort, and efficiency features that feel genuinely upscale without jumping to the premium price bracket. For many families and commuters, the EX trim hits the sweet spot between value, capability, and daily usability, which explains why it remains a frequent highlight in long-term tests and shopper discussions.
Design and First Impressions
From the outside, the 2022 Honda CR-V EX carries the refined design language Honda introduced a couple of years prior, giving it a cleaner front end compared with older generations. The lines are more sculpted, the grille is smaller, and the LED lighting gives the cabin a modern presence that looks at home in both city streets and suburban cul-de-sacs. Inside, the EX leans into soft-touch materials, higher-quality plastics, and more refined stitching, creating an atmosphere that feels deliberate rather than merely adequate.
Technology and Infotainment
One of the most noticeable upgrades on the 2022 CR-V EX is the updated infotainment system, which replaces the dated screen found on lower trims with a larger, higher-resolution display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrate cleanly, navigation is legible and responsive, and the overall interface avoids the lag that can frustrate drivers moving between apps. Honda Sensing safety suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, comes standard, which means the EX delivers advanced driver support without requiring a trip to the options list.
Comfort, Space, and Practicality
For a compact SUV, the 2022 CR-V EX offers a cabin that feels genuinely roomy, with front seats that provide solid support on long drives and rear seats that comfortably accommodate adults on road trips. The rear hatch opens wide, and the split-folding rear seat adds versatility for grocery runs, weekend getaways, or hauling odd-shaped items from the hardware store. Storage solutions, such as the available front center console and clever door pockets, keep everyday essentials within easy reach without adding clutter to the cabin.
Fuel Efficiency and Driving Dynamics
The 2022 Honda CR-V EX typically pairs a responsive turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission, delivering a combination of power and efficiency that suits both highway cruising and stop-and-go traffic. In real-world testing, owners often report numbers that align closely with official EPA estimates, making the EX an economical choice for daily driving. Handling is tuned for confidence rather than sportiness, with steering that provides good feedback and a ride that absorbs bumps without feeling overly soft.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
Honda’s reputation for durability extends to the 2022 CR-V EX, where proven powertrain components and a reputation for low maintenance costs help offset concerns about long-term ownership. Scheduled maintenance intervals are reasonable, and parts availability through the Honda network means repairs and replacements are generally straightforward. While no vehicle is entirely immune to wear, the combination of factory warranty coverage and strong resale value helps the EX hold its position as a sensible purchase for cost-conscious buyers.
Safety Ratings and Real-World Protection
Safety organizations and insurance institutes have consistently recognized Honda CR-V models for their robust crash protection, and the 2022 EX benefits from the same structure and restraint systems that earned top honors in testing. The comprehensive suite of Honda Sensing features not only helps prevent collisions but also mitigates injury severity when incidents occur. For shoppers who prioritize occupant protection, the combination of high ratings and standard advanced safety technology makes the EX a reassuring choice.
