In practice, Honda does not offer a traditional 4x4 with a low-range transfer case. Instead, most Honda models provide all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option, including advanced systems such as Real-Time AWD and the i-VTM4 torque-vectoring setup used on the Ridgeline. If you specifically seek a true 4x4 with a low-range gear, you’d need to consider non-Honda options.
Understanding AWD vs 4x4 in Honda’s lineup
Front-wheel drive is the baseline for most vehicles, with AWD systems designed to improve traction in adverse conditions. Honda’s AWD offerings are typically designed for on-road confidence and light off-road use, rather than a dedicated off-road 4x4 experience with a low-range transfer case.
Honda’s AWD systems explained
Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System continually monitors wheel speeds and traction demands, sending power to the rear wheels as needed. The Ridgeline uses Honda’s i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management 4WD) system, which provides torque vectoring for improved stability and traction, but it does not include a traditional low-range geared transfer case.
Current Honda models with AWD options
The following Honda models offer AWD options, though they do not provide a conventional 4x4 with a low-range gearbox. This list highlights where AWD is available and how it’s typically marketed.
- Honda CR-V — Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System available on most trims
- Honda HR-V — AWD option available on newer generations
- Honda Pilot — AWD with Intelligent Control System available across multiple trims
- Honda Passport — AWD with Intelligent Control System available on relevant trims
- Honda Ridgeline — i-VTM4 AWD system (torque-vectoring) for enhanced traction; no traditional low-range
- Honda Odyssey — Front-wheel drive is standard; AWD is not offered in current US trims
Across these models, Honda emphasizes AWD as a traction aid for adverse weather and mixed-terrain driving, rather than a true off-road 4x4 with a low-range transfer case.
If you’re after a true 4x4 with low-range capability
For buyers who specifically require a traditional 4x4 with a low-range transfer case, Honda’s lineup does not include this configuration. There are several well-regarded alternatives from other brands that offer part-time or full-time 4WD with low-range for serious off-roading.
- Toyota 4Runner — Legendary body-on-frame 4WD with a low-range transfer case
- Jeep Wrangler — Classic 4x4 with robust low-range gearing and extensive off-road options
- Ford Bronco — Modern 4x4 with selectable low-range gearing and off-road packages
- Nissan Frontier PRO-4X or Frontier 4x4 — Capable off-road options with real 4WD systems
- Toyota Tacoma — 4WD variants with low-range gearing and strong off-road credentials
If off-road capability with a true low-range 4WD system is a priority, exploring these brands will typically yield devices designed for more demanding terrain than Honda’s AWD configurations.
Summary
Honda currently offers AWD across its popular SUVs and the Ridgeline, with systems designed to enhance traction in everyday and light off-road situations. There is no traditional 4x4 with a low-range transfer case in Honda’s current lineup, and Odyssey remains front-wheel drive only. For buyers seeking a genuine 4x4 experience with low-range, the market offers several non-Honda options that are purpose-built for tougher off-road use.