Does Honda have 4WD or AWD?
Honda relies on all-wheel drive (AWD) across most of its current lineup rather than traditional four-wheel drive (4WD). AWD is commonly offered as an option or standard on many Honda SUVs and crossovers, while a true 4WD with low-range gearing is not part of the modern Honda lineup in the United States.
To understand what this means for shoppers, this article explains the difference between AWD and 4WD, identifies which Honda models offer AWD, and clarifies where traditional 4WD fits (or doesn’t) in Honda’s current offerings.
Understanding AWD vs 4WD
All-wheel drive (AWD) systems power all four wheels and can operate full-time or on demand. They are designed to improve traction in everyday conditions such as rain, snow, and slick roads, often with no dedicated low-range gear. Four-wheel drive (4WD) systems, by contrast, are typically built for more rugged off-road work and usually include a low-range setting for serious torque and crawl capability. In practice, Honda’s approach centers on AWD for its on-road efficiency and reliability, rather than a traditional 4WD setup.
Honda's AWD lineup
Below are the Honda models that offer AWD capability. Availability varies by trim and market, so check the exact configuration when shopping. In general, AWD is either optional on base trims or standard on higher trims across these models.
- Honda CR-V — Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is available on many trims.
- Honda HR-V — AWD is available on select trims.
- Honda Pilot — AWD is available across many trims.
- Honda Passport — AWD is available on most trims.
- Honda Ridgeline — AWD is available on certain configurations.
In practice, Honda’s approach across these models is to provide AWD for improved traction and stability without a traditional low-range four-wheel-drive system. If you need genuine 4WD with a low-range feature, you would typically look to other brands.
Honda CR-V
The CR-V commonly offers Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System, which helps distribute power to the wheels with traction needs. It’s designed to enhance stability in rain, snow, and slippery conditions while maintaining efficient on-road performance.
Honda HR-V
Honda Pilot
Honda Passport
Honda Ridgeline
But what about true 4WD?
As of 2025, Honda does not advertise or offer a traditional 4WD system with a low-range transfer case in its mainstream U.S. lineup. For buyers who specifically require a true 4WD with off-road low-range gearing, other brands—such as Jeep, Toyota, Ford, and Land Rover—offer models like the Wrangler, 4Runner, Bronco, and Defender that feature dedicated 4WD with low-range modes. Honda remains a strong option for those seeking AWD-equipped crossovers and trucks with good all-weather capability and efficient performance.
Summary
In short, Honda’s current vehicles predominantly use AWD systems rather than traditional 4WD. AWD is widely available across key models like the CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline, providing enhanced traction for everyday driving and light off-road use. For buyers who specifically need a low-range 4WD, other brands offer options; Honda’s focus remains on AWD-equipped vehicles that balance safety, efficiency, and practicality.
Is 4WD or AWD better in snow?
AWD is better for most daily driving in snow on maintained roads because it's always on and automatically adjusts power to the wheels with the most traction. 4WD is better for extreme conditions like deep, unplowed snow or rough terrain because it provides more torque and power distribution, but it must be manually engaged and is not meant for dry pavement.
| Feature | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for: | Daily driving on snowy or icy paved roads. | Deep snow, unplowed roads, and off-roading. |
| Operation: | Fully automatic and always active. | Part-time; must be manually engaged by the driver. |
| How it works: | Uses a center differential to send power to the wheels with the most traction as needed. | Splits power equally to all four wheels, providing maximum torque. |
| Fuel efficiency: | Generally better for daily driving. | Generally lower fuel efficiency, as it prioritizes capability over economy. |
| Limitations: | Can send power to the front or rear axle with the least amount of traction if a wheel is spinning, which can be a problem in deep snow. | Can cause damage if used on dry pavement. |
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_y-4laefOCu6M7NYPzLfnuQM_2';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
Key takeaway
- For driving in cities or on regularly plowed roads with occasional light snow and ice, AWD is the better, more convenient choice.
- For driving in remote areas, through deep snowdrifts, or on unpaved, rutted roads, 4WD is the superior option for its greater power and torque.
- Neither system replaces the need for winter tires, which are critical for traction, braking, and turning in snow and ice, regardless of whether you have AWD or 4WD.
What Hondas are AWD or 4WD?
Every Honda SUV and truck is available with Honda Real Time AWD™. It's easy to get a Honda CR-V AWD, which is one of the more popular vehicles in our lineup. You can even find a sedan that meets you needs with the Honda Accord AWD models for sale.
Is CRV AWD or 4WD?
The Honda CR-V is available as front-wheel drive (FWD) (standard) or all-wheel drive (AWD) (optional) on most trims. While AWD is an option for enhanced traction, it is not a true 4WD system that is always engaged; it's an automatic, on-demand system that directs torque to the rear wheels when needed.
- Standard configuration: All CR-V models come with front-wheel drive as the standard drivetrain.
- Optional upgrade: All-wheel drive is available as an upgrade on every trim level for improved performance in slippery conditions.
- AWD system: The CR-V uses Honda's Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System, which automatically sends power to the rear wheels when it detects wheel slippage.
- Not traditional 4WD: This is different from a traditional 4WD system where the driver can manually lock the wheels in and out of four-wheel drive.
Is 4WD the same as AWD?
No, 4WD and AWD are not the same; while both systems send power to all four wheels, AWD is generally designed for on-road performance and automatically adjusts power to the wheels as needed, while 4WD is typically a more rugged system that is engaged manually by the driver and is better suited for off-road situations. AWD optimizes traction for slippery roads, whereas 4WD provides maximum power and control for extreme conditions like deep snow, mud, or rocky terrain.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Best for: On-road driving in varying conditions like rain, snow, and ice.
- How it works: It is mostly automatic, with a computer constantly adjusting power distribution to all four wheels without driver input.
- Advantages: Improves traction and handling on paved roads, is more fuel-efficient than 4WD, and is ideal for everyday use.
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
- Best for: Serious off-road driving and tough terrain.
- How it works: The driver must manually engage the system, often through a switch or lever.
- Advantages: Provides greater power and torque for extreme conditions. Many 4WD systems have a low-range gear option for very difficult terrain, and they are not meant for use on dry pavement, as it can cause damage.
