Is the Honda Ridgeline full-time all-wheel-drive?
No — the Ridgeline uses an intelligent all-wheel-drive system (i-VTM4) rather than a traditional full-time 4WD with a low-range transfer case. It automatically distributes torque to the rear when needed and is designed for on-road efficiency plus light off-roading, not for serious rock crawling.
To understand how this system works and what it means for daily driving, here is a closer look at the Ridgeline’s AWD setup, how it behaves in different conditions, and how it compares with classic 4WD setups.
How the i-VTM4 AWD system works
Before listing its key features, it's helpful to know what the i-VTM4 system is designed to do in everyday driving and light off-road scenarios.
- i-VTM4 stands for Intelligent Variable Torque Management 4WD, with an electronically controlled rear differential that can vary torque between the front and rear axles.
- In normal conditions, the system biases torque toward the front wheels to maximize fuel efficiency and predictability.
- When traction is needed, the system can send more torque to the rear wheels and apply rear-wheel torque vectoring to improve stability and grip, especially in slippery or uneven conditions.
- There is no traditional low-range gear or locking transfer case in the Ridgeline’s AWD setup, so it’s not intended for serious off-road rock crawling.
- The AWD system works in concert with Honda’s traction and stability controls to maintain control and confident handling across rain, snow, and light off-road surfaces.
In practice, i-VTM4 is designed to keep you moving smoothly by automatically adapting to road conditions, rather than requiring driver intervention or a separate 4WD mode.
Drive behavior and practical considerations
To help buyers understand what to expect in daily use, consider these points about how the Ridgeline’s AWD behaves in real-world conditions.
- The system is active at all times, but torque delivery is managed to favor efficiency most of the time.
- There’s no driver-selectable 2WD/4WD with a low-range; you don’t manually lock the drivetrain for harsh terrain.
- In wet or snowy conditions, you’ll notice smoother acceleration and improved grip as torque is sent to the rear when needed.
- For off-road duty beyond light trails—such as sand, mud, or steep, uneven terrain—the Ridgeline is capable, but it’s not designed for deep mud bogging or rock crawling the way a true part-time 4WD with a low-range would be.
Overall, Ridgeline owners benefit from enhanced stability and traction in adverse weather and light off-road use, without the complexity or maintenance of a traditional 4WD system.
Bottom line: Is it full-time AWD?
Compared with a traditional part-time 4WD with a low-range and a manual lock option, the Ridgeline’s i-VTM4 is best described as an intelligent, on-demand AWD system. It stays engaged across conditions and can distribute torque to the rear as needed, but it does not offer a locked 4WD mode or a low-range gear. For most drivers, this translates to confident, predictable performance in rain, snow, and everyday gravel roads, with adequate capability for light off-road adventures.
Summary
The Honda Ridgeline uses the Intelligent Variable Torque Management 4WD (i-VTM4) system, which is an on-demand, front-wheel-drive–biased AWD with rear-torque capability and torque-vectoring for stability. It is not a traditional part-time 4WD with a low-range, nor does it offer a manual 4WD lock. For daily driving in varied weather and light off-road use, the system provides enhanced traction and confidence without the complexities of a fixed 4WD setup.
