Which Hondas come with AWD?
In brief, Honda offers all-wheel drive on several of its popular models, especially its SUVs and the Ridgeline pickup. Current U.S. offerings with AWD include the CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline; the Odyssey generally does not offer AWD in recent years; Civics and Accords do not come with AWD in most configurations. Availability varies by model year and trim, so always confirm with Honda’s official site or your dealer.
The question covers which models in Honda’s lineup can deliver all-wheel drive, how those systems work, and what buyers should consider when shopping for AWD. Below is a concise guide to the models that commonly offer AWD, how Honda’s AWD technologies operate, and practical shopping tips.
Below is a quick guide to which Honda models currently offer all-wheel drive, and what to expect in terms of drivetrain technology.
- Honda CR-V — Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is available on most trims, providing on-demand rear-wheel torque.
- Honda HR-V — Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is offered on select trims for improved traction in poor weather.
- Honda Pilot — Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is available across most trims to boost grip in slick or uneven conditions.
- Honda Passport — Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is available to enhance stability and traction on varied road surfaces.
- Honda Ridgeline — i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management) AWD is available and provides torque-vectoring to maximize traction, especially in challenging conditions.
In addition, several Honda models that historically offered AWD in some markets do not have AWD as an option in the current U.S. lineup. The Honda Odyssey, for example, does not offer AWD in recent model years, and the Civic and Accord are typically front-drive only in the U.S. market. Always verify the exact drivetrain with the dealer for the specific year and trim you’re considering, as configurations can change between model years.
AWD technology used by Honda
Honda uses two main all-wheel-drive systems in its consumer lineup. The most common is Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System, used on the CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, and Passport. The second is i-VTM4, a more advanced torque-management system found on the Ridgeline that emphasizes torque vectoring to optimize traction on varied surfaces.
Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System
This system generally sends power to the rear wheels on demand, improving traction when slipping is detected or anticipated, while prioritizing front-wheel drive for efficiency during normal driving.
i-VTM4
Model-by-model snapshot
The following section highlights which Honda passenger models currently offer AWD in the U.S. lineup and notes any important year-to-year considerations. If you’re shopping outside the U.S. or looking at future model years, confirm the exact configuration with a local dealer.
Shopping considerations for AWD Honda models
Before deciding on an AWD Honda, consider the following practical questions to ensure you pick the right setup for your needs.
- Is AWD standard on the model you want, or is it optional? Some trims require selecting AWD as part of the package or higher trim levels.
- What is the real-world fuel economy with AWD versus FWD on your chosen model-year? AWD generally adds weight and friction, affecting efficiency.
- What are the tire and maintenance implications of AWD? For example, all-season or winter tires can significantly improve performance in snowy conditions.
- How does the AWD system interact with features like hill-start assist, traction control, and drive modes? Some models offer snow or mud modes to optimize torque distribution.
- Are there regional differences in AWD availability? Availability can vary by market and model year, so check local inventory and official specifications.
Ultimately, AWD is a valuable feature for improving traction in rain, snow, and slippery surfaces, but it does not replace careful driving or appropriate tires. If you frequently drive in challenging weather, an AWD Honda from the CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Passport, or Ridgeline family is worth considering, with the Ridgeline offering the most specialized torque-management system.
Summary: Honda’s current AWD offerings are concentrated in its SUV family (CR-V, HR-V, Pilot, Passport) and the Ridgeline pickup, with real-time AWD and i-VTM4 technologies providing traction on demand. The Odyssey generally does not offer AWD in recent years, and Civics/Accords are typically front-wheel drive. Always verify the exact drivetrain for the model year and trim you’re considering.
Is AWD or 4WD better in snow?
For most drivers, AWD is better for daily driving in snow on plowed roads because it operates automatically and seamlessly to improve traction. 4WD is better for extreme conditions like deep, unplowed snow, rough terrain, or steep, icy hills, as it provides more power and control at lower speeds.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Best for: Paved roads with occasional snow and ice, city and suburban driving, and everyday commuting.
- How it works: It automatically sends power to all four wheels as needed, providing enhanced traction and handling without driver intervention.
- Pros: Seamless and automatic, better fuel efficiency, and works well in a variety of conditions.
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
- Best for: Deep snow, unpaved roads, steep hills, and off-roading.
- How it works: It typically requires a driver to manually engage, sending power to all four wheels for maximum traction at lower speeds. Some systems also have a low-range gear for heavy-duty tasks.
- Pros: Provides brute force and maximum traction for extreme conditions.
- Cons: Less efficient, and can be detrimental to handling on dry pavement, as it can cause binding if not disengaged.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose AWD if: You primarily drive on roads that are regularly cleared of snow.
- Choose 4WD if: You frequently drive in rural areas, experience very heavy snowfall, or need to navigate rough terrain.
Important considerations
- Winter tires are non-negotiable: Regardless of whether you have AWD or 4WD, a good set of winter or snow tires is the single most important factor for safe winter driving.
- AWD is not four-wheel-drive: Many modern AWD systems have a center differential, allowing the front and rear wheels to turn at different speeds, which is beneficial for cornering on dry or wet roads.
- 4WD is for low-speed, high-traction situations: Avoid driving in 4WD on dry or paved roads, as it can damage the drivetrain.
Which Honda models are AWD?
Honda models available with all-wheel drive (AWD) include the CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, HR-V, Passport, Pilot, and Ridgeline. The Prologue, an all-electric midsize SUV, is also available with AWD. Many models offer a choice of adding AWD, while some hybrid and top trims may have it as standard equipment.
- CR-V: Available with AWD, including the CR-V Hybrid, which has standard AWD on the Sport Touring model and offers it on other trims.
- HR-V: A subcompact crossover SUV that offers an AWD option.
- Passport: A midsize SUV with AWD available.
- Pilot: A midsize SUV that comes with AWD options.
- Ridgeline: A pickup truck that is available with an AWD system.
- Prologue: The all-electric midsize SUV is also available with AWD.
What is the disadvantage of AWD?
The main disadvantages of all-wheel drive (AWD) are higher costs, including a more expensive purchase price and increased maintenance, poorer fuel efficiency, and more complex systems that can be costly to repair. Additionally, AWD systems have a higher potential for increased tire wear and may provide a false sense of security that can lead drivers to overestimate their vehicle's capabilities in bad weather, especially with braking.
You can watch this video to learn about the disadvantages of all-wheel drive, including higher costs and maintenance: 59sScotty KilmerYouTube · Mar 5, 2020
Cost
- Higher purchase price: Vehicles with AWD are often more expensive to buy than their two-wheel drive counterparts.
- Increased maintenance and repair costs: AWD systems have more complex components, which can lead to higher maintenance and repair bills.
- More expensive tires: AWD can lead to more even wear on all four tires, but it also means tires need to be replaced more frequently, and tire rotation is more critical.
Performance and efficiency
- Lower fuel economy: The added weight and mechanical components of an AWD system require more energy to operate, resulting in lower fuel efficiency compared to FWD or RWD vehicles.
- Increased stopping distance: The extra weight of an AWD system can increase the distance it takes to stop, even though it helps with traction when accelerating.
- Limited off-road capability: Most AWD systems are not designed for heavy off-roading and are less robust than true four-wheel drive systems.
Other drawbacks
- Less interior space: The additional components can take up valuable space in the cabin or cargo area.
- Overconfidence: Drivers may feel a false sense of security in poor conditions, believing AWD can overcome the laws of physics, which can lead to dangerous situations.
- More components to fail: A more complex system means there are more parts that could potentially fail over time.
Is Honda AWD as good as Subaru?
AWD systems are not equal. Subaru's is far superior. But it's far cheaper to keep a CRV going. Rotors, brakes, suspension components, starter, alternators, even the AC unit are cheaper to replace in CRV. And you can do it much quicker in a CRV. Labor is a huge cost.
