Is Honda FWD or RWD?
Honda’s current lineup is primarily front-wheel drive, with all-wheel-drive options available on several models; there are no new pure rear-wheel-drive Honda passenger cars in production today. Historically, Honda has built rear-wheel-drive sports cars, notably the S2000 and the original NSX, which are celebrated for their handling.
Drivetrain choices affect traction in adverse weather and overall driving dynamics. The following sections explain how FWD and AWD are used across today’s Honda lineup and highlight the brand’s rear-wheel-drive heritage.
Current drivetrain patterns in Honda's lineup
Before listing specifics, note that Honda’s mainstream cars are generally front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available on several SUVs and pickups. The brand’s performance flagship in recent years leans toward front-wheel-drive configurations in its non-Acura models, with all-wheel drive playing a key role in traction-oriented SUVs. The Acura NSX uses a modern hybrid all-wheel-drive system, marking a notable exception within the broader Honda family.
- Most traditional passenger cars from Honda (such as the Civic, Accord, and Insight) are front-wheel drive.
- The Civic Type R remains front-wheel drive, emphasizing handling and performance within a front-drive layout.
- Several SUVs and pickups (CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Ridgeline, etc.) offer all-wheel drive as an option or standard on higher trims.
- The Acura NSX (Honda’s luxury-performance model) uses a hybrid all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and performance.
In short, Honda’s current lineup prioritizes front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available where weather or terrain warrants it; there are no new pure rear-wheel-drive Hondas in production today, aside from the brand’s historic RWD models.
Historical rear-wheel-drive models
Although not part of today’s lineup, Honda has a notable history of rear-wheel-drive sports cars that remain popular with enthusiasts.
- Original Honda NSX (1990–2005) was a rear-wheel-drive mid-engine performance car.
- Honda S2000 (1999–2009) was a rear-wheel-drive roadster renowned for its balance and high-revving engine.
- Earlier roadsters in Honda’s history, such as the S600 and S800 from the 1960s, were also rear-wheel-drive.
These models illustrate Honda’s willingness to pursue rear-drive platforms, even as the current production lineup leans toward front-drive with AWD options.
Summary
Bottom line: Honda’s modern production cars are predominantly front-wheel drive, with all-wheel-drive options on several SUVs and trucks. Pure rear-wheel-drive Hondas are not part of the current lineup, except within Honda’s performance heritage (notably the S2000 and the original NSX). For buyers seeking RWD, historical models or non-Honda brands are typically the path, while today’s Hondas focus on FWD with AWD where appropriate. Always verify drivetrain availability by model year and trim level when shopping.
Which Honda car is RWD?
Honda does not currently produce any rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars for the mainstream market, as their lineup is overwhelmingly front-wheel drive (FWD). However, Honda has a history of producing RWD sports cars like the S2000 and the mid-engine NSX, and also had earlier models and kei cars with RWD, such as the Honda Beat and the S660. While discontinued, these models are still available on the used market, and Honda's future electrified lineup in China will feature RWD as a standard option, which could indicate a potential return for the platform.
Past and limited-production RWD Honda vehicles
- Honda S2000: A well-regarded RWD sports car produced from 1999 to 2009.
- Honda NSX: Honda's original RWD mid-engine sports car, produced from 1990 to 2005.
- Honda S660: A kei-class sports car with a mid-engine RWD layout that was produced until 2022.
- Honda Beat: A mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive kei car from the early 1990s.
- Early S-series cars: Honda's first production cars, like the S500, S600, and S800, were RWD.
Future potential for RWD
- Electrified models: Honda's new lineup of electric vehicles in China will feature a standard RWD configuration, which could lead to a broader return of this layout.
- Focus on FWD: Honda's primary focus has long been on FWD platforms due to cost-effectiveness and packaging advantages, which is the reason for the discontinuation of its RWD sports cars.
Is a Honda Accord FWD or RWD?
The Honda Accord is a front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicle. All current and past generations of the Honda Accord use a front-wheel-drive layout, and Honda does not offer an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option for the Accord model line.
You can watch this video to learn about the differences between FWD, RWD, and AWD: 48sScotty KilmerYouTube · May 10, 2021
- FWD system: The engine sends power to the front wheels, which pull the car. This design is space-efficient and cost-effective to produce.
- Packaging benefits: The FWD system allows for a more spacious interior and a flatter floor because the engine, gearbox, and differential are all located at the front.
- Traction: FWD provides good traction in everyday driving conditions, especially in rain and snow, because the weight of the engine is directly over the drive wheels.
- Performance: While FWD is great for general use, a powerful FWD car can experience understeer (the tendency to drift wide in a turn) when pushed hard.
Are Hondas FWD or RWD?
All Honda cars and two-wheel-drive trucks use front-wheel drive, with transverse-mounted engines.
Has Honda ever made a RWD?
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.
