Is the 2009 Honda Pilot 4WD?

The 2009 Honda Pilot 4WD is a capable and practical used SUV that can be a good choice for many buyers. It offers a spacious interior, strong performance, and a reputation for reliability that makes it a solid option in the used SUV market.

Overview of the 2009 Honda Pilot 4WD

The 2009 Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV that seats up to eight passengers. It was available in both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations. The 4WD model, in particular, provides enhanced traction and capability for driving in inclement weather or light off-road conditions.

Under the hood, the 2009 Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 250 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 4WD model has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

Key Features and Capabilities

• Spacious Interior: The Pilot offers generous passenger and cargo space, with seating for up to eight people and 87 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume.


• Capable 4WD System: The available 4WD system provides enhanced traction and control in various driving conditions, making the Pilot a versatile choice for both on-road and light off-road use.


• Reputation for Reliability: Honda is known for building reliable and durable vehicles, and the Pilot is no exception. It has a reputation for being a dependable and long-lasting SUV.


• Comfortable Ride: The Pilot's suspension and chassis provide a smooth and comfortable ride, even on longer journeys.

Overall, the 2009 Honda Pilot 4WD is a practical and capable used SUV that can be a great choice for families or those who need the extra space and capability of a midsize SUV. Its reputation for reliability and versatility make it a solid option in the used vehicle market.

Is a Honda Pilot 4WD or AWD?

The 2025 Honda Pilot has both standard Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and available Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ All-Wheel Drive (i-VTM4® AWD), not true 4WD. The i-VTM4 AWD system is more advanced than a traditional system because it sends torque to all four wheels as needed, enhancing traction in slippery conditions like rain or light snow. 
This video explains the difference between AWD and 4WD: 54sEngineering ExplainedYouTube · Mar 15, 2024
Honda Pilot AWD (i-VTM4) vs. traditional 4WD

• Honda's i-VTM4 AWD: This is an advanced, on-demand system that constantly monitors and distributes power to all four wheels for optimal traction and stability. 
  • Smart and efficient: It sends more power to the front wheels for normal driving to improve fuel efficiency. 
  • Responsive: It automatically sends power to the rear wheels when slip is detected. 
  • Selectable modes: It has additional drive modes for Snow, Mud, and Sand, which optimize the system for different conditions. 
• Traditional 4WD: This system, which is common in trucks and some SUVs, typically requires the driver to manually select between 2WD and 4WD. 
  • Less refined: It is less sophisticated than Honda's i-VTM4, which uses clutches and differentials to distribute torque. 
  • Less common in Pilot: The Honda Pilot does not have a traditional 4WD system that allows the driver to select between 2WD and 4WD. 

This video compares the performance of AWD and 4WD systems in various conditions: 50sSam CarLegionYouTube · Feb 27, 2025
Which one is right for you?

• Choose AWD (i-VTM4) if:
  • You want the best possible traction for everyday driving in various weather conditions, like rain, light snow, or icy patches. 
  • You want the convenience of a system that works automatically without requiring driver intervention. 
  • You desire the added confidence of torque-vectoring, which helps improve handling when cornering. 
• Choose FWD (standard) if: 
  • You live in a mild climate with little to no snow or ice. 
  • You want the most fuel-efficient option. 
  • Your driving needs are limited to paved roads and highways. 

Is the 2008 Honda Pilot AWD or 4WD?

All 2008 Honda Pilots are available with either two-wheel-drive (2WD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD).

What does VTM-4 mean on a 2009 Honda Pilot?

Variable Torque Management 4WD System
The Variable Torque Management 4WD System (VTM-4) automatically transfers varying amounts of engine torque to the rear wheels under lower traction conditions. If more traction is needed when your MDX is stuck, or is likely to become stuck, you can use the VTM-4 Lock button to increase torque to the rear wheels.

Is the 2009 Honda Pilot front-wheel drive?

For 2009, the lineup includes LX, EX, the leather-swathed EX-L, and the new, range-topping Touring model, all with standard seating for eight and in front-drive or all-wheel-drive availability.