Which spec ES vs EX - which one to go for?

digitaldave · 8th December 2007, 20:13

After a bit of reading, I'm looking at either an ES or an EX (because they don't do a 5 door Type R

). According to the catalogue, the differences appear to be:

ES - glass roof as standard
EX - 17" wheels, Satnav/HFT, rear parking sensors and HID lights (what exactly are they anyway?)

I already have a standalone satnav (which has the benefit of a speed camera database, not sure if the EX version has that), and to be honest, I don't make or receive that many phone calls (and besides, I can usually give the phone to my wife

). So, it'd basically come down to 17" wheels vs glass roof. Are there any other differences that I've missed? Any other input from people that have gone through the process themselves?

Thanks

.

FWH · 8th December 2007, 20:16

I would say EX.
The satnav etc really make the car.
Parking sensors and HID are good too.

But then I have the glass roof aswell....

No camera database in the EX satnav, you can´t add them either.

HID are High Intensity Discharge lights, also known as Xenon.
Xenon being the gas used inside the bulbs.

High-intensity discharge lamp - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

ukpm · 8th December 2007, 20:23

Yeah go for the EX, and add in the Glass Roof and Leather option to the spec for the ultimate Civic!

Steeph · 8th December 2007, 20:28

Quote:

Originally Posted by digitaldave

After a bit of reading, I'm looking at either an ES or an EX (because they don't do a 5 door Type R

). According to the catalogue, the differences appear to be:

ES - glass roof as standard
EX - 17" wheels, Satnav/HFT, rear parking sensors and HID lights (what exactly are they anyway?)

I don't see the value of a glass roof at all (that's my taste I know) so the choice is easy I would say. HID lights are great so I think it's more the question whether you want the satnav or not. I don't have one, but it looks good.

FWH · 8th December 2007, 20:31

The glass roof makes the interior much brighter, especially for any passengers in the rear seat.

But if I had too choose, I would sacrifice it for the satnav etc etc

minisweeper · 8th December 2007, 20:33

If you definitely aren't gonna use the sat nav or bluetooth then go for the ES with leather seats and 18" wheels. Plus maybe the reversing camera. I have an EX with all the above and the sunroof and I wouldn't give up any of the bits...
Personally I much prefer the general dash layout of the EX (the entire layout changes, including buttons etc) so check that out too. Depends how tight your budget is and how many toys you want..

TTDegs · 8th December 2007, 21:50

reverse cam is a fab toy

but you have to have the sat nav to be able to have the camera...

EX would be my choice

In fact, it was my choice...

Bog · 8th December 2007, 22:53

EX for sure! If get the ES, you will always be wondering/wishing if you should have got the EX.

I used to have a Tom Tom in my old car and missed it a bit when I got my Civic EX (Especially the speed cam database), but now I'm used to the Honda system, which is very good - excellent TMS (Traffic) more than makes up for the poor POI's.

Get a Talex or Road Angel for the speed cams if want that added protection!

Steeph · 8th December 2007, 23:22

Quote:

Originally Posted by FWH

The glass roof makes the interior much brighter, especially for any passengers in the rear seat.

That's exactly why I don't like it. Too much light/sun on your head and you don't get to the feeling you're in the car. Guess I like the claustrophilic feel

And about 99% of the time I'm either alone in the car of with the missus, so who cares about the backseat passengers.

Jack The Lad. · 8th December 2007, 23:31

It does come with a F.O.C. electric sunshade mate.

FWH · 9th December 2007, 08:58

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jack The Lad.

It does come with a F.O.C. electric sunshade mate.

But if you drive around with it closed all the time, you have wasted your money.

Opened mine before I pulled out from the dealer, and never closed again...

minisweeper · 9th December 2007, 11:49

Mine spends most of it's time open but I do close it occasionally for a variety of reasons. Gotta get your moneys worth out the sunshade too you know...

john_lickman · 9th December 2007, 12:06

Quote:

Originally Posted by digitaldave

... I'm looking at either an ES or an EX ... the differences appear to be:

ES - glass roof as standard
EX - 17" wheels, Satnav/HFT, rear parking sensors and HID lights (what exactly are they anyway?)

Hi Dave,

I think you've summarised the differences pretty well. Another point to note is that a lot of these differences are dealer fit options (e.g. Wheels, HFT, rear parking sensors). Not sure about leather seats? I'm certain that a glass roof is a factory option.

So I guess it comes down to a question of price and availability. Is an ES with the dealer options you really want cheaper than an EX? Secondly, comes the question of availability.

In my case, my local dealer had an ES in stock in a colour I liked and could fit the options I wanted in a few days. No brainer

My personal opinion on the options you mention:
Glass roof -

it's nice to have the blinds open on a sunny day

HFT -

I don't make many calls either, but the ability to get into the car with my phone in my pocket and have the bluetooth pair up automatically is really neat! So much better than putting the phone in a cradle and then forgetting it when I get out. No need to take the sim card out and put it into the car.

Parking Sensors -

A real must in a Civic!

HID Lights -

I don't have these but wish I did. The standard lights are OK, but you can always do with more light on these dark mornings.

17" Wheels -

I was told that it makes the ride a bit more bumpy and I happen to like the look of the standard ES wheels.

Satnav -

The best bit of a Satnav is the speed camera database and the Honda system doesn't do that.

Hope that helps.

FWH · 9th December 2007, 13:58

Quote:

Originally Posted by john_lickman

Hi Dave,

I think you've summarised the differences pretty well. Another point to note is that a lot of these differences are dealer fit options (e.g. Wheels, HFT, rear parking sensors). Not sure about leather seats? I'm certain that a glass roof is a factory option.

HFT is factory fit with the Satnav.
Although Honda do market a seperate, different, HFT for non-satnav cars, I don´t know if anyone here has gone for that. I would in that situation prefer an aftermarket solution like a Parrot kit, them seem much better.

Leather is factory fit. Although aftermarket (not dealer) options are available.

Glass roof is factory fit.

Aftermarket solutions may well be a problem if it is a company lease car.

Glencairn · 9th December 2007, 22:49

I test drove the ES which I thought was excellent, but I really fancied the Sat Nav and HFT, really only because I hadn't had either before (boys' toys and all that...). So I plumped for the EX but then when I saw the seat trim I didn't like that at all - the ES finish is much better IMO. So I splashed out on the leather/glass roof package and don't regret it for a mo. The heated seats these chilly mornings really are the business - or maybe that's just me showing my age.
I had my phone paired by the dealer and it worked on the forecourt but it's failed to recognise my mobile ever since. Been too busy to check out the manual but hopefully it's not something which is going to be a constant pain.
I have to say the dash on the EX really is superb. It's a "Beam Me Up Scottie" experience every time you get behind the wheel.
One thing to watch if you are going for the EX. Make sure the model you get definitely has the parking sensors. I ordered mine just three weeks ago and picked it up last Wednesday and it didn't have them fitted. I'm sure the dealer has taken the opportunity to get rid of old stock. Having said that, I haven't felt the need for them as yet. Until fairly recently I've had a series of big cars which were a nightmare to park, so I'm finding the Civic a doddle to reverse. I'm actually surprised there's not a front sensor option as I can't see over the bonnet and I'm finding front distance tricky when parking.
Choose wisely grasshopper...

terry · 9th December 2007, 23:11

If money is no object go for the EX with the options.
However the difference (according to my old price list) is about £1100 between the ES and EX.
If you want the panoramic roof/leather on the EX add another £1200, or £800 for leather in the ES, making the difference £1500.
So then it comes down to how much you value the satnav/HFT and bigger wheels/tyres.
I prefered the ride on the 16" wheels, and tomtom to the Honda version, and that £800 for the leather was too much, so I decided the ES was the one for me.
I would have liked parking sensors, and did look at wireless camera systems on ebay, but reversing is not that big a problem provided you take care.

Terry.

czechplastik · 10th December 2007, 00:24

EX represents great value for money and the inbuilt NAV is ace though it all depends on your priorities.

minisweeper · 10th December 2007, 08:29

I must say I never noticed the seat trim was different on the ES to the EX...but then I've got the lovely heated leather anyway

john_lickman · 10th December 2007, 12:06

Quote:

Originally Posted by FWH

Honda do market a seperate, different, HFT for non-satnav cars, I don´t know if anyone here has gone for that.

I have exactly that device

It works just fine, was fitted by my dealer and does just what it says on the box. When I get in the car, phone phone automatically pairs with the car's speakers. When I get a call, even if the CD/radio is switched off, it automatically answers through the car's hi-fi. When I get out of the car, there's no more forgetting the phone - it stays in my pocket. There's a fairly discreet little box on the driver's front windscreen pillar, with a really useful cancel button, if I don't want to take a call

Honcho · 10th December 2007, 12:47

Perhaps an EX fitted with 16" wheels at the dealer end.

Better ride comfort and all the goodies.

8th December 2007, 20:13	#1 (permalink)
digitaldave Valve Cap Join Date: 7th December 2007 Location: Herts, UK Posts: 12 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	ES vs EX - which one to go for? After a bit of reading, I'm looking at either an ES or an EX (because they don't do a 5 door Type R ). According to the catalogue, the differences appear to be: ES - glass roof as standard EX - 17" wheels, Satnav/HFT, rear parking sensors and HID lights (what exactly are they anyway?) I already have a standalone satnav (which has the benefit of a speed camera database, not sure if the EX version has that), and to be honest, I don't make or receive that many phone calls (and besides, I can usually give the phone to my wife ). So, it'd basically come down to 17" wheels vs glass roof. Are there any other differences that I've missed? Any other input from people that have gone through the process themselves? Thanks .

9th December 2007, 22:49	#15 (permalink)
Glencairn Valve Cap Join Date: 22nd November 2007 Location: Angus, UK Posts: 18 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	I test drove the ES which I thought was excellent, but I really fancied the Sat Nav and HFT, really only because I hadn't had either before (boys' toys and all that...). So I plumped for the EX but then when I saw the seat trim I didn't like that at all - the ES finish is much better IMO. So I splashed out on the leather/glass roof package and don't regret it for a mo. The heated seats these chilly mornings really are the business - or maybe that's just me showing my age. I had my phone paired by the dealer and it worked on the forecourt but it's failed to recognise my mobile ever since. Been too busy to check out the manual but hopefully it's not something which is going to be a constant pain. I have to say the dash on the EX really is superb. It's a "Beam Me Up Scottie" experience every time you get behind the wheel. One thing to watch if you are going for the EX. Make sure the model you get definitely has the parking sensors. I ordered mine just three weeks ago and picked it up last Wednesday and it didn't have them fitted. I'm sure the dealer has taken the opportunity to get rid of old stock. Having said that, I haven't felt the need for them as yet. Until fairly recently I've had a series of big cars which were a nightmare to park, so I'm finding the Civic a doddle to reverse. I'm actually surprised there's not a front sensor option as I can't see over the bonnet and I'm finding front distance tricky when parking. Choose wisely grasshopper... Last edited by Glencairn; 9th December 2007 at 22:56.

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode


This thread is about: ES vs EX - which one to go for?, it's in Buying, Dealers and Servicing at the Honda Civic forum Civinfo; After a bit of reading, I'm looking at either an ES or an EX (because they don't do a 5 door Type R ). According ...

8th December 2007, 20:16	#2 (permalink)
FWH Super Moderator Civinfo guru Join Date: 3rd June 2007 Location: Sweden Posts: 4,838 Thanks: 3 Thanked 26 Times in 23 Posts	I would say EX. The satnav etc really make the car. Parking sensors and HID are good too. But then I have the glass roof aswell.... No camera database in the EX satnav, you can´t add them either. HID are High Intensity Discharge lights, also known as Xenon. Xenon being the gas used inside the bulbs. High-intensity discharge lamp - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

8th December 2007, 20:23	#3 (permalink)
ukpm Wheelnut Join Date: 17th April 2007 Location: Holywood, Co. Down Posts: 93 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Yeah go for the EX, and add in the Glass Roof and Leather option to the spec for the ultimate Civic!

8th December 2007, 20:31	#5 (permalink)
FWH Super Moderator Civinfo guru Join Date: 3rd June 2007 Location: Sweden Posts: 4,838 Thanks: 3 Thanked 26 Times in 23 Posts	The glass roof makes the interior much brighter, especially for any passengers in the rear seat. But if I had too choose, I would sacrifice it for the satnav etc etc

8th December 2007, 20:33	#6 (permalink)
minisweeper Locking Wheelnut Join Date: 23rd June 2007 Posts: 190 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	If you definitely aren't gonna use the sat nav or bluetooth then go for the ES with leather seats and 18" wheels. Plus maybe the reversing camera. I have an EX with all the above and the sunroof and I wouldn't give up any of the bits... Personally I much prefer the general dash layout of the EX (the entire layout changes, including buttons etc) so check that out too. Depends how tight your budget is and how many toys you want..

8th December 2007, 21:50	#7 (permalink)
TTDegs Super Moderator Civinfo master Join Date: 4th August 2006 Location: Cardiff Posts: 5,638 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	reverse cam is a fab toy but you have to have the sat nav to be able to have the camera... EX would be my choice In fact, it was my choice...

8th December 2007, 22:53	#8 (permalink)
Bog Supporter Magic Rear Seat Join Date: 5th October 2006 Location: Romford, Essex Posts: 886 Thanks: 0 Thanked 1 Time in 1 Post	EX for sure! If get the ES, you will always be wondering/wishing if you should have got the EX. I used to have a Tom Tom in my old car and missed it a bit when I got my Civic EX (Especially the speed cam database), but now I'm used to the Honda system, which is very good - excellent TMS (Traffic) more than makes up for the poor POI's. Get a Talex or Road Angel for the speed cams if want that added protection!

8th December 2007, 23:31	#10 (permalink)
Jack The Lad. Supporter Rocketship door handle Join Date: 28th August 2007 Location: ENGLAND Posts: 1,434 Thanks: 0 Thanked 11 Times in 11 Posts	It does come with a F.O.C. electric sunshade mate.

9th December 2007, 11:49	#12 (permalink)
minisweeper Locking Wheelnut Join Date: 23rd June 2007 Posts: 190 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Mine spends most of it's time open but I do close it occasionally for a variety of reasons. Gotta get your moneys worth out the sunshade too you know...

9th December 2007, 23:11	#16 (permalink)
terry Supporter Triangular Exhaust Join Date: 24th September 2006 Location: Cambridge Posts: 321 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	If money is no object go for the EX with the options. However the difference (according to my old price list) is about £1100 between the ES and EX. If you want the panoramic roof/leather on the EX add another £1200, or £800 for leather in the ES, making the difference £1500. So then it comes down to how much you value the satnav/HFT and bigger wheels/tyres. I prefered the ride on the 16" wheels, and tomtom to the Honda version, and that £800 for the leather was too much, so I decided the ES was the one for me. I would have liked parking sensors, and did look at wireless camera systems on ebay, but reversing is not that big a problem provided you take care. Terry.

10th December 2007, 00:24	#17 (permalink)
czechplastik King of the rodeo Civinfo guru Join Date: 24th October 2006 Location: Belfast Posts: 4,493 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	EX represents great value for money and the inbuilt NAV is ace though it all depends on your priorities.

10th December 2007, 08:29	#18 (permalink)
minisweeper Locking Wheelnut Join Date: 23rd June 2007 Posts: 190 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	I must say I never noticed the seat trim was different on the ES to the EX...but then I've got the lovely heated leather anyway

10th December 2007, 12:47	#20 (permalink)
Honcho Supporter Triangular Exhaust Join Date: 5th October 2006 Posts: 258 Thanks: 0 Thanked 1 Time in 1 Post	Perhaps an EX fitted with 16" wheels at the dealer end. Better ride comfort and all the goodies.