Is the Honda Odyssey AWD or FWD?
The Honda Odyssey is front-wheel drive (FWD) only and does not offer all-wheel drive (AWD) in the U.S. market.
Current drivetrain status
All U.S.-spec Honda Odyssey models are front-wheel-drive. Honda's official specifications consistently list FWD as standard and do not show an AWD variant for the Odyssey in recent years.
Here are the key facts about the Odyssey's drivetrain and why AWD isn't available.
- Drivetrain: FWD only; no factory AWD option is offered on the Odyssey in the United States.
- Powertrain: 3.5-liter V6 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission; the setup is optimized for interior space and efficiency rather than all-wheel torque distribution.
- Traction features: Honda's Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control helps in slick conditions but is not a substitute for true AWD.
Bottom line: If you specifically need all-wheel drive, the Odyssey is not the right choice in its current and recent generations.
If AWD is important: alternatives and considerations
Several other minivans provide AWD options, which may be a better fit for buyers who routinely drive in snow, ice, or poor weather. Here are practical takeaways and examples to check with dealers for the current year.
- Toyota Sienna: All-wheel drive is available on the current generation, offering AWD capability for improved traction in adverse conditions.
- Other brands: Availability of AWD on minivans varies by year and trim; verify current specs with the dealer for models you are considering.
In practice, if AWD is non-negotiable, shopping around the segment for a model that explicitly lists AWD as an option is essential rather than assuming the Odyssey will offer it in the future.
Why Honda has kept the Odyssey FWD
Industry reasons behind sticking with FWD include cost control, packaging efficiency (more interior space for passengers and cargo), and a target market that often prioritizes value and reliability over segment-leading all-weather capability. Honda also relies on strong traction and stability systems to handle less-than-ideal driving conditions, which some buyers may find sufficient for typical weather in many regions.
That said, heavy snow or frequent inclement weather can still be a concern for Odyssey owners who don’t have AWD. Prospective buyers should weigh local climate, driving needs, and available dealer packages when deciding between the Odyssey and AWD-enabled rivals.
Summary
The Honda Odyssey is FWD-only in the United States, with no factory AWD option in current or recent model years. If AWD is a hard requirement, consider alternatives such as the Toyota Sienna or other models that offer AWD. Always confirm the latest specifications with a dealership before purchasing, as drivetrain offerings can change in new generations.
Does Honda have an AWD van?
No, Honda does not currently offer a standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) minivan for the US market; every model of the Honda Odyssey is front-wheel drive (FWD). While some other markets like Japan and the UK have offered an AWD version of the Odyssey, it was never introduced to the United States, according to Corwin Honda Colorado Springs. However, Honda does sell several SUVs and crossovers with AWD, such as the CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, and Passport.
- Honda Odyssey: All current US models are front-wheel drive only.
- Other Honda vehicles with AWD: The automaker offers several SUVs and crossovers with AWD, including the CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, and Passport.
- International models: In other parts of the world, such as Japan, an AWD version of the Odyssey has been available.
Which Honda model is AWD?
Honda offers all-wheel drive (AWD) on SUVs and crossovers such as the CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, HR-V, Passport, and Pilot, along with the Ridgeline pickup truck and the all-electric Prologue. The Passport comes standard with AWD, while it is available or standard on the other models depending on the trim level.
This video explains how Honda's AWD system works: 59skawdzillaYouTube · Mar 22, 2025
SUV and Crossover Models
- CR-V: Available with AWD, including on the CR-V Hybrid.
- CR-V Hybrid: Available with AWD.
- HR-V: Available with AWD, often called "Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System".
- Passport: Comes standard with AWD.
- Pilot: Available with AWD, including the i-VTM4 All-Wheel Drive System.
- CR-V Hybrid: Available with AWD.
- CR-V Hybrid: Available with AWD.
- CR-V Hybrid: Available with AWD.
Truck Models
- Ridgeline: Available with AWD.
Other Models
- Prologue: The all-electric model is available with AWD.
- Accord: Some Accord models, typically sedans, are also available with AWD.
Why is Honda discontinuing the Odyssey?
As a refresher, Honda decided to discontinue the Odyssey in the Philippine market due to the closure of the automaker's Sayama production plant in Japan.
Is the Honda Odyssey FWD or AWD?
FWD
Is the Honda Odyssey AWD? No, all versions of the popular Honda Odyssey minivan come with FWD, with no AWD version available. Still, the Odyssey boasts plenty of versatility on its own and features seating for up to eight passengers.
