Do all Hondas have front-wheel drive?

Most Hondas sold today use front-wheel drive, but not every model follows that rule. The lineup includes several all-wheel-drive options, and a couple of non-FWD exceptions exist in Honda’s broader family, including Acura models. This article explains how drivetrain layouts vary across the brand’s current offerings.

Where front-wheel drive is common

In the mainstream passenger-car segment, front-wheel drive is the default configuration for many Honda models. It provides packaging efficiency and cost savings, while offering satisfactory traction in typical driving conditions. Availability of all-wheel drive varies by model and trim.

• Civic


• Accord


• Insight


• Jazz/City (market-dependent)

Front-wheel drive remains the standard setup for these popular models in most regions, with all-wheel drive offered only on select trims or markets where weather and road conditions demand extra traction.

Notes on market differences

Drivetrain offerings can differ between the United States, Canada, and other regions. Some markets may have different trim levels or optional features that affect whether FWD or AWD is available.

Models with all-wheel drive or AWD options

There is a strong emphasis on AWD for Honda’s sport-utility lineup. Real-time AWD or similar systems are commonly available on many crossovers and trucks, delivering enhanced traction in rain, snow, or uneven terrain.

• CR-V


• HR-V


• Pilot


• Passport


• Ridgeline

For buyers who live in climates with winter conditions or who regularly encounter slick roads, these models offer AWD on various trims or as a recommended option. Availability can vary by year, trim level, and regional market.

Implications for buyers

If you prioritize all-wheel traction, focus on these SUVs and check the exact drivetrain options for your chosen trim and region, as some configurations may be FWD by default and AWD only on higher trims or specific packages.

High-performance and non-FWD exceptions

Not all Honda-branded vehicles are front-engine, front-drive designs. The brand’s luxury division, Acura, has produced performance-oriented all-wheel-drive models, and Honda has historical non-FWD performers too. These examples underscore the diversity within the broader Honda family.

• Acura NSX (all-wheel drive)


• Honda S2000 (rear-wheel drive) – historic model, no longer in production

Today’s lineup includes the NSX as a flagship example of all-wheel-drive technology within the Honda family, while the S2000 remains a celebrated rear-wheel-drive sports car from Honda’s past. These cases show that Honda’s engineering has encompassed non-FWD layouts, although they are not representative of the brand’s mainstream offerings.

Context for enthusiasts

For performance-minded buyers, these non-FWD configurations illustrate the brand’s willingness to deviate from FWD in pursuit of balance, handling, and power delivery, especially in the high-end or historical segments.

Summary

Bottom line: No, not all Hondas have front-wheel drive. While FWD dominates the conventional sedan and hatchback lineup, many SUVs and crossovers offer all-wheel drive, and a small number of models — notably the Acura NSX — use AWD. Historically, Honda has also produced rear-wheel-drive sports cars like the S2000. If you’re shopping, the best approach is to verify the drivetrain option for the specific model and trim you’re considering, especially when you need AWD or when your local climate warrants it.

Final takeaway

For most buyers, the expectation is that Honda sedans and small cars are FWD, while the SUV and light-truck segments provide AWD options. Always confirm the drivetrain on the exact trim and market to ensure you get the configuration you want. Summary: not all Hondas are FWD; AWD is common on the SUV family, and there are notable non-FWD exceptions in the broader Honda ecosystem.

Are all Hondas FWD?

The Feature: All Honda cars and two-wheel-drive trucks use front-wheel drive, with transverse-mounted engines.

Which Hondas are front-wheel drive?

Most standard Honda cars and two-wheel-drive trucks are front-wheel drive (FWD), including popular models like the Civic, Accord, CR-V, HR-V, and Odyssey. The Honda CR-V, however, offers both FWD and available all-wheel drive (AWD) options on hybrid and standard models. Some Honda SUVs and trucks, such as the Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline, have available AWD or are built for specific purposes like off-roading.
 
Examples of FWD Honda models

• Civic: This compact car comes standard with FWD and is available as a sedan, hatchback, and hybrid, according to the Honda website. The high-performance Civic Type R is also a FWD model. 
• Accord: A mid-size sedan that is available as a standard FWD and a hybrid version. 
• CR-V: This compact SUV is offered with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, with FWD being a standard option on certain trims. 
• HR-V: A subcompact crossover SUV that is available with FWD or available AWD, notes the Honda website. 
• Odyssey: This minivan comes standard with FWD, as shown on Honda's website. 
• Prelude: A new hybrid coupe model that is sold with FWD. 

Models with available AWD or other configurations 

• Pilot: This SUV is available with available AWD, according to Honda. 
• Passport: This is a mid-sized SUV that comes with available AWD, notes Honda. 
• Ridgeline: A pickup truck that is available with available AWD, states Honda. 
• CR-V e:FCEV: A fuel cell electric vehicle that is available at select dealerships in California. 

Has Honda ever made a rear-wheel-drive car?

Yes, Honda has made rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars, most notably the S2000 sports car and the NSX supercar. While Honda is primarily known for its front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles, these two iconic models showcase the company's past production of RWD cars.
 

• Honda S2000: A two-seat roadster produced from 1999 to 2009, the S2000 was celebrated for its high-revving engine and rear-wheel-drive layout. 
• Honda NSX: The first-generation NSX was a mid-engined, RWD supercar known for its all-aluminum body and precision handling. 
• Other examples: There are also various concept cars, custom builds, and some older, less common models with a RWD setup. 

What's better, a FWD or an AWD?

No single drivetrain is universally better, as the best choice between AWD and FWD depends on your driving needs. AWD excels in poor traction conditions like snow, ice, or rain, offering superior stability and traction by powering all four wheels. FWD is generally more affordable, fuel-efficient, and has simpler mechanics, making it suitable for daily driving on well-maintained roads. 
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

• Pros:
  • Provides superior traction and stability on slippery surfaces like snow, ice, and rain by sending power to all four wheels. 
  • Can give you more confidence in a wider range of weather conditions. 
  • May offer higher resale value. 
• Cons:
  • More expensive to purchase, insure, and maintain. 
  • Less fuel-efficient due to the extra weight and components. 
  • Can have a shorter lifespan for tires, as some systems may require all four tires to be replaced at once if one is damaged. 

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) 

• Pros:
  • More affordable to buy and maintain. 
  • Generally better fuel economy. 
  • Often provides more interior and trunk space because the drivetrain components are simpler. 
• Cons:
  • Offers less traction than AWD in slippery conditions, especially on ice or in heavy snow. 
  • Can experience more wheel spin in low-traction situations.