Is the Honda Accord FWD or RWD?
The Honda Accord is front-wheel drive (FWD). It is not offered with rear-wheel drive (RWD) in its current lineup, and there is no factory all-wheel-drive option for the sedan in most markets.
Drivetrain architecture of the Accord
The Accord uses a transverse, front-mounted engine and drives the front axle. This layout is designed for interior space efficiency, balanced handling, and fuel economy. Even the hybrid version remains front-driven, with the electric motors supplementing propulsion while the rear axle remains undriven.
Key drivetrain facts
Below are the essential points about how the Accord's drivetrain is configured across its current generations and variants.
- Transverse engine layout powers the front wheels; there is no fixed rear-wheel-drive configuration in the sedan.
- All current Accord sedans in major markets are FWD; no factory AWD option is offered for the sedan.
- Hybrid variants use Honda's i-MMD system, which drives the front wheels (via electric motors) and manages power with an electric CVT.
- Other Honda models (like the CR-V, Pilot) offer AWD, but that option is not extended to the Accord sedan.
- Regional or wagon variants may differ in drivetrain offerings, but the standard sedan remains FWD in practice.
In short, the Honda Accord is front-wheel drive in its current generations, and there is no official AWD option for the sedan in the major markets.
Why FWD suits the Accord
Honda chose FWD for the Accord to maximize interior space, improve packaging, and optimize fuel efficiency across a wide range of powertrains, including hybrids. This layout also simplifies maintenance and reduces cost compared to AWD systems. For many drivers, good tires and sensible driving are enough to handle a wide range of weather conditions.
- Pros: Better interior packaging, generally lower manufacturing cost, and strong fuel economy in most configurations.
- Cons: Less traction than AWD in certain winter or off-road conditions, particularly with older or worn tires.
Overall, the FWD configuration aligns with the Accord's emphasis on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and spaciousness.
Summary
Headline takeaway: The Honda Accord is front-wheel drive (FWD) across its current lineup, with no factory AWD option for the sedan in major markets. The hybrid variants still drive the front wheels, and the Accord remains a practical, efficient family sedan as a result.
Was the Honda Accord RWD?
The car had a transverse-mounted front engine, front-wheel drive layout, which would be adopted for the later N600 (1969), H1300 (1970) and Civic (1972) models.
Are Hondas FWD or RWD?
All Honda cars and two-wheel-drive trucks use front-wheel drive, with transverse-mounted engines.
Is the Honda Accord front wheel?
The Accord's LX and SE trims are powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 192 horsepower and drives the front wheels through a CVT. Like previous generations of the Accord, it doesn't offer all-wheel drive.
Is the Honda Accord a FWD or RWD?
front-wheel drive
Is the Honda Accord AWD? No, the midsize Honda Accord comes with standard front-wheel drive (FWD), and there are no Honda AWD vehicles currently available in the Accord lineup.
