Is the Honda Crosstour 4WD?
The Crosstour is not a traditional four-wheel-drive vehicle, but it was offered with all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option. In short, you would want AWD rather than a true 4WD system for this model.
Introduced in 2009 and produced through 2015, the Honda Crosstour is a unibody crossover that shares bones with the Honda Accord. Honda placed AWD on several trims to improve traction in rain or light snow, but it did not offer a low-range, part-time 4WD system. This distinction matters for buyers comparing crossovers: AWD on the Crosstour is designed for on-road grip and moderate weather challenges rather than off-road expeditions.
How the Crosstour's drivetrain works
Understanding the Crosstour's drivetrain helps explain why it isn’t a traditional 4WD. The standard configuration across most Crosstour models is front-wheel drive (FWD). An optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system uses Honda’s Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control to distribute torque to the rear wheels as needed, improving traction on slippery surfaces without a driver-selectable low-range transfer case.
Below are the key points that describe the Crosstour’s drivetrain options:
- Standard drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) on most base Crosstour models.
- Optional drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD) via Honda’s Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System on select trims featuring the 3.5L V6 engine.
- Not a traditional 4WD: There is no low-range gear or transfer-case like you’d find in a true 4WD pickup or SUV; AWD is designed for on-road grip and light-duty weather conditions.
The practical upshot is that the Crosstour can be equipped for better traction in wet or snowy conditions, but it remains a crossover optimized for on-road use rather than off-road prowess.
How to identify AWD on a used Crosstour
If you’re shopping for a used Crosstour, here are reliable ways to confirm whether a given vehicle has AWD rather than only FWD:
- Check for an AWD badge on the rear hatch or sides of the vehicle, which indicates all-wheel drive.
- Review the original window sticker or the VIN/build sheet to see if AWD was listed as a drivetrain option.
- Look at the instrument cluster and/or owner’s manual for AWD indicators or settings; many models display an AWD status when traction control or stability control engages.
Conclusion: If you specifically need four-wheel-drive capability with a low-range gear for serious off-roading, the Crosstour is not the ideal choice. If you want improved traction for rain, slush, or light snow, an AWD Crosstour would be the appropriate option.
Summary
The Honda Crosstour offers all-wheel drive as an option but does not come with a traditional 4WD system. This makes it suitable for improving traction in daily driving and light winter conditions, while remaining distinct from true off-road 4WD vehicles. Production spanned 2009 to 2015, and today the Crosstour stands as a discontinued model that can still be found in used markets with AWD on select trims.
What is special about the Crosstour?
All Crosstour trim levels had a removable bin under the cargo floor with a reversible lid (carpeted and rubber) for extra storage. A large grille, a wide-opening tailgate with a low loading height, and a well-made cabin with lots of analog controls are notable highlights.
Is the 2012 Honda Crosstour all-wheel drive?
Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available on the EX-L V6.
Is the 2010 Honda Crosstour AWD?
The Crosstour is powered by Accord's 3.5-liter V6 with 271 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque, tied to a front-drive 5-speed automatic. Our car's optional-single speed four-wheel drive system is borrowed from the CR-V.
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.
