No. The CR-V uses Honda's real-time all-wheel-drive system, which relies on an electronically controlled rear differential rather than a traditional transfer case with low-range gearing.
How traditional transfer cases compare to AWD systems
In off-road and four-wheel-drive terminology, a transfer case splits power between the front and rear axles and often provides a low-range gear for steep climbs or rough terrain. Many modern crossovers, including the Honda CR-V, use a different approach: all-wheel drive that can send torque to the rear wheels when slip is detected, without a separate transfer case or a selectable 4WD-low mode.
CR-V's AWD technology explained
The CR-V's AWD system uses an electronically controlled clutch in the rear differential to engage torque to the rear axle as needed. In newer models, Honda markets this as Real Time AWD with Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4). There is no manual or automatic 4WD-low setting; power distribution is continuous and primarily designed for on-road driving with improved traction in rain, snow, and light off-road conditions.
What that means for drivers
For daily driving, the system enhances stability and grip. For challenging terrain, expect that there is no true low-range gearing to crawl up steep rocks or deep mud; the vehicle compensates with torque vectoring and traction control rather than a dedicated transfer case.
Model-year context
Across generations, the CR-V has retained a transfer-case-free setup. Earlier generations used center differentials and a hydraulic or viscous coupling to manage torque, while modern versions rely on electronic control to modulate rear-wheel torque via a multi-plate clutch in the rear differential.
Conclusion
In short, there is no transfer case in the Honda CR-V. The vehicle achieves all-wheel-drive capability through an electronically controlled system that distributes torque to the rear axle when necessary, without the need for a transfer case or low-range gear.
Summary
The Honda CR-V offers real-time AWD with i-VTM4-style torque management, not a conventional transfer case. This setup supports everyday traction and light off-road use, but it does not include a low-range transfer gear.


