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Are Honda Accords 4 wheel drive?

The short answer is no. Honda Accords are not equipped with all-wheel drive; they are front-wheel-drive sedans with no factory AWD option in the current lineup, including hybrid variants.

To understand why this matters, it helps to know how the Accord is engineered for traction and fuel economy, how it compares to other Honda models, and what alternatives exist if you specifically need all-wheel drive.

Current drivetrain reality for the Honda Accord

The Honda Accord has been designed and sold as a front-wheel-drive vehicle across its recent generations. There is no official all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration offered by Honda for the Accord in the United States or most global markets. Even the hybrid variant, which uses an electric motor and a gasoline engine, operates in front-wheel drive. The Accord prioritizes efficiency, interior packaging, and ride comfort over AWD capability in this model family.

What this means in practice is that buyers looking for all-terrain or deep-snow capability should not expect an AWD option on the Accord. The sedan’s powertrain and architecture are optimized for highway efficiency and predictable handling on dry and wet roads, with traction features such as advanced stability control and braking systems rather than an AWD drivetrain.

For context, Honda does offer AWD on several of its other models, including crossovers and trucks, which is why some buyers compare the Accord to AWD-equipped siblings. If AWD is a priority, these alternatives provide that capability while still delivering Honda’s overall reliability and value.

Key facts about the Accord’s drivetrain

The following points summarize the current state of the Accord’s propulsion system:

The Accord is front-wheel drive (FWD) across all trims and powertrains in recent generations.

There is no factory all-wheel-drive (AWD) option for the Accord in the US market, including the hybrid model.

The Accord Hybrid uses an electric motor paired with a gasoline engine, but remains FWD.

These facts reflect Honda’s product strategy for the Accord: a balance of efficiency, interior space, and smooth performance rather than AWD capability in a traditional sedan package.

Alternatives within Honda for all-wheel-drive capability

If AWD is a non-negotiable feature, Honda offers several models that include AWD options or standard AWD on many trims. Here are key alternatives to consider alongside the Accord.

Models that commonly offer AWD include the following Honda lineup variants. Note that availability can vary by trim and year, so check with a dealer for current configurations.

Honda CR-V — Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is available on most trims, enhancing traction in adverse conditions.

Honda HR-V — AWD is available on select trims to improve grip in poor weather.

Honda Pilot — AWD is offered across many trims to support family hauling and light off-roading duties.

Honda Passport — AWD is available on multiple trims for a more rugged, utility-focused option.

Honda Ridgeline — AWD options are available on several trims for a pickup with improved traction.

For buyers who specifically need an AWD Honda, these models provide that capability while offering different body styles, cargo capacity, and features compared with the Accord.

What to consider if you want AWD but still prefer a sedan

If you prefer the sedan form factor of the Accord but require AWD, you face a choice: either adopt a non-Auto AWD sedan from another brand or consider alternative approaches within Honda’s lineup, such as switching to a compatible AWD SUV with similar reliability and efficiency characteristics. Additionally, practical steps can improve winter traction on a front-wheel-drive sedan when AWD isn’t available.

Practical steps to improve traction if AWD is unavailable include:

Using dedicated winter tires for the season to maximize grip on snow and ice.

Maintaining proper tire pressure and ensuring even wear across all four tires.

Adapting driving speed and following distance to road conditions, especially in rain or snow.

Using advanced driver-assistance features wisely, such as stability control and traction control, which are standard on modern Accords.

While these measures cannot substitute for AWD in severe conditions, they can significantly improve safety and handling when winter weather is a factor.

Summary

In today’s market, Honda Accords are not offered with all-wheel drive; they are exclusively front-wheel drive. For buyers who need AWD, Honda’s broader lineup—including the CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline—provides multiple options with AWD capability. If you’re set on a sedan and still want to stay within the Honda family, you may consider exploring trims or similar models within the lineup that balance performance, efficiency, and traction, while adding winter tires and prudent driving practices for better winter handling.

Bottom line

Bottom line: Honda Accords are not four-wheel drive. They remain front-wheel-drive sedans, with AWD available on other Honda models if that capability is essential for your driving needs.

Are the new Honda Accords all wheel drive?

No. The new Honda Accord comes in a front-wheel drive configuration only. If you're planning to drive in tough conditions, however, look to the safety features. Every model of the Honda Accord comes with Vehicle Stability Assist and Traction Control technology to help you maintain your grip on rough roads.

Is the Honda Accord 4 wheel drive?

Is the Honda Accord AWD? No, the midsize Honda Accord comes with standard front-wheel drive (FWD), and there are no Honda AWD vehicles currently available in the Accord lineup.

Does a Honda have 4 wheel drive?

Honda all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems use sensors to determine when to send power to the rear wheels. Honda doesn't offer a four-wheel drive (4WD) system, which is designed to deliver power to all wheels simultaneously. This can have a detrimental effect on fuel efficiency and handling. How much can Honda vehicles tow?

Are Honda Accords good in the snow?

Yes, Honda Accords are reasonably good in the snow, especially when equipped with proper tires and traction control, though their low ground clearance is a disadvantage in deep snow. The Accord's front-wheel drive combined with its traction and stability control systems helps it handle light to moderate snow well, particularly when using winter or all-season tires. For the best performance in heavy snow, snow tires are a highly recommended investment.

You can watch this video to see a Honda Accord driving through a foot of snow: 1mFlyinGatoYouTube · Mar 10, 2018
Key factors and tips

Tires are crucial: The most significant factor is the type of tires. Snow tires or good all-season tires are essential for snow performance.
Front-wheel drive: The standard front-wheel drive is competent in snow, especially with the help of modern traction control.
Snow mode: Many newer Accords have a "Snow Mode" feature that adjusts the transmission and throttle for smoother acceleration in slippery conditions.
Low ground clearance: The Accord's low ground clearance is its main weakness in snow, as it can get stuck if the snow is too deep.
Good for most conditions: For most daily driving on roads that are plowed regularly, an Accord with good tires is a capable vehicle.
Consider dedicated snow tires: If you frequently drive in areas with significant snowfall, investing in a set of dedicated snow tires will drastically improve the car's performance and safety.

This video demonstrates how a Honda Accord handles a snowstorm: 33sRedLineModsYouTube · Dec 25, 2022

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.