Is Honda Crosstour front-wheel drive?
Yes. The Honda Crosstour was offered with front-wheel drive as the standard configuration, with Real-Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available as an option on select trims and model years.
The Crosstour, produced from 2009 through 2015, is a mid-size crossover based on the Honda Accord platform. Its drivetrain choices were designed to balance everyday efficiency with enhanced traction when needed, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Drivetrain options and availability
The Crosstour's drivetrain choices can be summarized as two main configurations:
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) — standard on most Crosstour trims, offering familiar sedan-like fuel economy and simplicity of maintenance.
- Real-Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) — an optional system that helps with traction by sending power to the rear wheels when slip is detected or conditions require it.
In practical terms, buyers could select between FWD and AWD depending on trim and year; FWD served as the baseline with AWD available for those seeking extra grip in slick conditions.
How Real-Time AWD works on the Crosstour
When equipped, the Crosstour’s Real-Time AWD uses sensors to monitor wheel speed and traction. It typically drives the front wheels and continuously or intermittently transfers torque to the rear wheels as needed to improve stability and grip. The system is designed to operate automatically, without driver intervention.
- Traction enhancement: The system engages rear-wheel torque to improve grip on wet, snowy, or uneven surfaces.
- Fuel economy impact: AWD generally reduces fuel efficiency slightly compared with FWD due to the extra drivetrain weight and drag.
- Maintenance and tires: Proper maintenance includes matching tire sizes and tread across all wheels to ensure smooth AWD operation.
In short, AWD on the Crosstour provides added stability in challenging conditions, but it comes with trade-offs in efficiency and cost relative to the FWD setup.
Buying considerations for used Crosstour
When shopping for a used Crosstour, consider the drivetrain configuration as it affects maintenance, fuel economy, and performance. The following points help buyers make an informed choice:
- Identify the drivetrain: Confirm whether the vehicle is FWD or AWD, using the window sticker or VIN data.
- Tire condition and matching: Ensure all four tires are within similar tread depth and wear to avoid AWD issues.
- AWD system health: Listen for unusual noises or vibrations that could indicate transmission or AWD service needs and have a trusted mechanic inspect the system.
Understanding the drivetrain history helps avoid surprises and can influence long-term ownership costs.
Summary
The Honda Crosstour was designed with two main drivetrain configurations: standard Front-Wheel Drive and an optional Real-Time AWD system. This setup offered everyday efficiency with the option of enhanced traction in poor weather or light off-road scenarios. When evaluating a Crosstour, buyers should verify the exact drivetrain, check tire condition, and consider potential maintenance needs related to AWD to determine the total cost of ownership.
