What drive type is Honda Accord?
The Honda Accord is front-wheel drive (FWD) in the current lineup, and there is no factory all-wheel-drive option in the mainstream models sold in North America.
Understanding the Accord’s drive type helps explain its performance, efficiency, and market availability. Below is a closer look at how the drive layout is applied across generations, what it means for everyday driving, and how it compares with other Hondas.
Drive layout basics
Front-wheel drive means the engine powers the front wheels, while the rear wheels simply follow. This setup favors interior space, fuel economy, and predictable handling under typical road conditions. The Accord’s modern powertrains—1.5L turbo with CVT, 2.0L turbo with a 10-speed automatic, and a hybrid option—are all paired with FWD.
Advantages and trade-offs of FWD
FWD generally offers better packaging efficiency and lower weight, contributing to improved fuel economy. However, it can be less capable than all-wheel drive in low-traction conditions. For most daily driving, the Accord’s FWD layout paired with a modern stability/traction system provides solid performance and safety.
Market availability and generation history
The current and recent Accord generations are designed around front-wheel drive in most regions, including the United States, Canada, and Europe. Honda has not offered a factory all-wheel-drive variant of the mainstream Accord in these markets, including hybrid versions. Honda’s broader lineup does include all-wheel-drive models, such as the CR-V and Pilot, for buyers who need that capability.
Key points by market and generation:
- United States and Canada: Front-wheel drive (FWD) only; no factory all-wheel-drive option for the Accord.
- Europe and most other regions: Front-wheel drive (FWD) only; no AWD variant offered for the Accord.
- Hybrid variants: All current Accord Hybrid models are front-wheel drive; no AWD option is available for the hybrid in mainstream trims.
For buyers prioritizing all-wheel traction, Honda’s other models in the lineup—such as the CR-V or Pilot—offer AWD options, while the Accord remains focused on efficiency and spacious packaging with FWD.
Performance and consumer considerations
Traction in slippery conditions can be enhanced with quality tires and careful driving. Since the Accord itself does not offer AWD, customers seeking improved grip in snow or rain should consider winter tires, driving habits tailored to weather, and, if needed, a different Honda model with all-wheel drive.
Summary
Across its current generation, the Honda Accord uses front-wheel drive exclusively. There is no factory AWD option for mainstream Accord models in major markets, including North America and Europe. Buyers needing all-wheel traction should explore other Honda models in the lineup or verify regional configurations with a dealer. The Accord remains a space-efficient, fuel-efficient sedan with a focus on balanced handling and modern powertrains.
Is the Honda Accord a CVT or DCT?
Honda Accord Features
Smooth power delivery and refinement are two characteristics of its standard continuously variable transmission (CVT). On-road comfort remains excellent thanks to its wide stance and eye-catching alloy wheels.
Are accords FWD or awd?
FWD
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.
Is Accord RWD or FWD?
The Honda Accord is a front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicle. All current and past generations of the Honda Accord use a front-wheel-drive layout, and Honda does not offer an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option for the Accord model line.
You can watch this video to learn about the differences between FWD, RWD, and AWD: 48sScotty KilmerYouTube · May 10, 2021
- FWD system: The engine sends power to the front wheels, which pull the car. This design is space-efficient and cost-effective to produce.
- Packaging benefits: The FWD system allows for a more spacious interior and a flatter floor because the engine, gearbox, and differential are all located at the front.
- Traction: FWD provides good traction in everyday driving conditions, especially in rain and snow, because the weight of the engine is directly over the drive wheels.
- Performance: While FWD is great for general use, a powerful FWD car can experience understeer (the tendency to drift wide in a turn) when pushed hard.
What kind of drive does a Honda Accord have?
| Honda Accord | |
|---|---|
| Class | Compact car (1976–1989) Mid-size car (1989–present) |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback (1976–1989) 4-door sedan (1976–present) 2-door coupé (1989–2017) 5-door station wagon (1989–2015) |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive |
| Chronology |
