Do any Hondas have 4 wheel drive?
Yes. Several Honda models offer all-wheel drive (AWD). The term four-wheel drive is less commonly used in Honda’s current lineup, but AWD-equipped models provide power to all four wheels for enhanced traction in rain, snow, and slick roads.
Which Honda models offer all-wheel drive
The following Honda models commonly offer AWD as an option or standard, though availability can vary by year and trim. Always verify with a dealer for the exact configuration in your market and for a given model year.
- Honda CR-V — AWD is available on most trims; Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is the typical setup. The CR-V Hybrid widely uses AWD in its configurations.
- Honda HR-V — AWD is available on several trims via Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System.
- Honda Pilot — AWD is available across multiple trims, using Honda’s Real-Time AWD system.
- Honda Passport — AWD is offered on many trims, also using Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System.
- Honda Ridgeline — AWD is available on most trims; uses Honda’s i-VTM4 intelligent AWD system for torque distribution.
- Note: Honda Odyssey and Honda Civic are not offered with AWD in recent model years; they rely on front-wheel drive.
These options make AWD a practical choice for buyers who want better traction in adverse weather or on less-than-perfect roads, while still benefiting from the efficiency and packaging of Honda’s cars and SUVs.
How Honda's AWD systems work
Honda’s AWD approach generally falls into two families. Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System (used on many SUVs like the CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, and Passport) monitors wheel slip and traction demands and engages the rear axle when needed. The Ridgeline employs Honda’s i-VTM4 (intelligent Variable Torque Management) system, which actively balances torque between the front and rear wheels to optimize handling and stability in a variety of conditions. These systems are designed to be seamless for everyday driving, with the extra traction only engaging when required, helping to preserve efficiency when AWD isn’t needed.
Additional considerations for shoppers
When comparing AWD-equipped Hondas, keep in mind that:
- Some models may offer AWD only on higher trims or as part of a specific package.
- Hybrid versions often include AWD as either standard or widely available, depending on the year and market.
- The term AWD differs from traditional 4WD; Honda’s AWD systems are designed for on-road traction with occasional off-road capability rather than heavy-duty off-roading.
Summary
In short, yes: multiple current Honda models offer all-wheel drive, notably the CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline. The Odyssey and Civic do not offer AWD in their recent configurations. If AWD is important to you, confirm the exact drivetrain with the dealer for the specific year and trim you’re considering, as availability can vary by market.
What Honda models are 4 wheel drive?
Honda Models That Offer All-Wheel Drive
- 2026 HR-V. Maximum interior space in a city-sized package, the Honda HR-V isn't just great for narrow streets and parking garages.
- 2025 CR-V.
- 2025 CR-V Hybrid.
- 2025 Pilot.
- 2026 Passport.
- 2025 Prologue.
- 2025 Ridgeline.
Is Honda AWD the same as 4WD?
No, Honda's AWD is not the same as traditional 4WD, though both send power to all four wheels. The key difference is how they engage: Honda's AWD systems are automatic, engaging without driver input to improve traction on paved roads and in bad weather, while traditional 4WD systems are often part-time and require the driver to manually select a 4WD mode for off-road or heavy-duty use.
You can watch this video to learn about the differences between AWD and 4WD: 54sEngineering ExplainedYouTube · Mar 15, 2024
Honda's AWD
- Automatic and reactive: Honda's systems, like "Real Time AWD" and "i-VTM4," use sensors to constantly monitor road and wheel conditions.
- Driver-free operation: When it detects a loss of traction, the system automatically sends power to the rear wheels to help maintain control without the driver having to do anything.
- Best for on-road use: It's designed for improving traction during daily driving in various conditions, such as rain, snow, or on wet leaves.
Traditional 4WD
- Driver-engaged: Traditional 4WD systems often require the driver to manually switch between different modes (like 2WD, 4-High, and 4-Low) using a dial, button, or lever.
- Robust and mechanical: These systems are built to be more robust and are suited for challenging off-road terrain, towing, and heavy-duty applications.
- Different modes: "4-Low" mode provides maximum torque at low speeds for situations like climbing steep hills or pulling heavy loads, which AWD systems do not offer.
Which Honda car is 4x4?
Specification
| CAR NAME | Honda CR-V |
|---|---|
| Variant | 4WD Diesel Auto |
| ENGINE | |
| Fuel | Diesel |
| Installation | Front, transverse |
Is AWD or 4WD better in snow?
For most drivers, AWD is better for daily driving in snow on plowed roads because it operates automatically and seamlessly to improve traction. 4WD is better for extreme conditions like deep, unplowed snow, rough terrain, or steep, icy hills, as it provides more power and control at lower speeds.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Best for: Paved roads with occasional snow and ice, city and suburban driving, and everyday commuting.
- How it works: It automatically sends power to all four wheels as needed, providing enhanced traction and handling without driver intervention.
- Pros: Seamless and automatic, better fuel efficiency, and works well in a variety of conditions.
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
- Best for: Deep snow, unpaved roads, steep hills, and off-roading.
- How it works: It typically requires a driver to manually engage, sending power to all four wheels for maximum traction at lower speeds. Some systems also have a low-range gear for heavy-duty tasks.
- Pros: Provides brute force and maximum traction for extreme conditions.
- Cons: Less efficient, and can be detrimental to handling on dry pavement, as it can cause binding if not disengaged.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose AWD if: You primarily drive on roads that are regularly cleared of snow.
- Choose 4WD if: You frequently drive in rural areas, experience very heavy snowfall, or need to navigate rough terrain.
Important considerations
- Winter tires are non-negotiable: Regardless of whether you have AWD or 4WD, a good set of winter or snow tires is the single most important factor for safe winter driving.
- AWD is not four-wheel-drive: Many modern AWD systems have a center differential, allowing the front and rear wheels to turn at different speeds, which is beneficial for cornering on dry or wet roads.
- 4WD is for low-speed, high-traction situations: Avoid driving in 4WD on dry or paved roads, as it can damage the drivetrain.
