Is the Honda Pilot AWD or 4WD? Canadian Models Explained
The Honda Pilot, a popular midsize SUV in Canada, has been a staple in the automotive market for over two decades. One of the most common questions potential buyers and enthusiasts ask is whether the Honda Pilot has All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD).
What is AWD and 4WD?
Before we explore the specific system of the Honda Pilot , it’s crucial to understand the difference between AWD and 4WD:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD): This system typically provides power to all four wheels continuously. It’s designed for improved traction on various road conditions but is not for severe off-road use.
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): Traditionally, 4WD systems are more robust and designed for off-road use. They often feature low-range gearing and can be engaged or disengaged by the driver.
Honda Pilot Drivetrain Evolution
The Honda Pilot has undergone several changes in its drivetrain system since its introduction to the Canadian market. Let’s examine this evolution:
First Generation (2003-2008)
When the Honda Pilot was first introduced in Canada, it came with a system Honda called Variable Torque Management 4-Wheel Drive (VTM-4). Despite the “4WD” in its name, this system functioned more like a modern AWD system.
Key features of the VTM-4 system:
Full-time operation: The system was always active, sending power to all four wheels.
Front-wheel bias: Under normal driving conditions, most power goes to the front wheels.
Automatic torque distribution: When slippage was detected, the system could send up to 50% of the power to the rear wheels.
VTM-4 lock: A button on the dashboard allowed drivers to lock the rear differential, sending 25% of the power to each rear wheel in low-speed situations.
Second Generation (2009-2015)
The second-generation Pilot continued to use the VTM-4 system, with some refinements. Honda marketed this as “4WD” on the vehicle badging, but its functionality remained closer to what we typically consider AWD.
Third Generation (2016-2022)
Honda introduced an updated system called i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management) with the third generation. This system represented a significant advancement in the Pilot drivetrain technology.
Key improvements in the i-VTM4 system:
Torque vectoring: The system could now independently vary the torque sent to each rear wheel.
Improved responsiveness: The new system could react more quickly to changing road conditions.
Enhanced off-road capability: While still not a traditional 4WD system, the i-VTM4 provided better performance in challenging terrain.
Fourth Generation (2023 onwards)
The latest generation of the Honda Pilot introduces further refinements to the i-VTM4 system.
Key features of the new i-VTM4 system:
Stronger rear differential: Can handle 40% more torque compared to the previous generation.
Faster response: 30% quicker reaction to changing conditions.
Increased torque distribution: Up to 70% of the engine’s torque goes to the rear axle.
Advanced torque vectoring: 100% of the rear axle torque can go to either the left or right rear wheel.
AWD or 4WD: The Verdict
Despite the occasional use of “4WD” in Honda marketing materials and vehicle badging, the Honda Pilot drivetrain system is more accurately described as Advanced All-Wheel Drive. Here’s why:
Full-time operation: Unlike traditional 4WD systems, the Pilot drivetrain is always active and doesn’t require driver engagement.
No low-range gearing: Traditional 4WD systems often include a low-range gearbox for extreme off-road situations, which the Pilot lacks.
Designed for on-road performance: While capable in light off-road situations, the Pilot system is primarily for on-road driving in various weather conditions.
Advanced torque vectoring: The ability to distribute torque between individual wheels is a hallmark of modern AWD systems.
The TrailSport Edition: Bridging the Gap
With the introduction of the TrailSport edition in the latest generation, Honda has taken steps to enhance the Pilot off-road capabilities. The TrailSport features:
Off-road tuned suspension
Increased ground clearance
All-terrain tires
Steel skid plates
While these additions improve the Pilot off-road performance, they don’t fundamentally change the nature of the i-VTM4 system. The TrailSport remains an AWD vehicle with enhanced off-road capabilities rather than a traditional 4WD.
Performance in Canadian Conditions
The Honda Pilot AWD system is well-suited to Canadian driving conditions. It provides:
Excellent traction in snow and ice
Stability on wet roads
Improved handling on dry pavement
Moderate off-road capability for cottage roads or light trails
The system’s ability to quickly redistribute power to wheels with traction makes it particularly effective in the varied weather conditions common across Canada.
Fuel Efficiency Considerations
One advantage of the Pilot AWD system over traditional 4WD is its impact on fuel efficiency. Under normal driving conditions, the system sends most power to the front wheels, helping to minimize fuel consumption.
For the latest generation Pilot, Natural Resources Canada rates the fuel consumption as follows:
City: 13.3 L/100 km
Highway: 10.2 L/100 km
Combined: 11.9 L/100 km
These figures are competitive within the midsize SUV segment, especially considering the size and capabilities.
Maintenance and Reliability
The i-VTM4 system in Canadian Honda Pilots is for durability and low maintenance. However, owners should be aware of a few key points:
Regular fluid checks: The rear differential fluid should be checked and replaced according to the maintenance schedule.
Tire rotation: Regular tire rotations are crucial to ensure even wear and optimal system performance.
System diagnostics: The vehicle’s onboard diagnostics monitors the AWD system. Any issues will trigger a warning light on the dashboard.
Which Honda Pilot Is Right For You?
While Honda has used both “AWD” and “4WD” terminology for the Pilot over the years, the vehicle’s drivetrain system is best described as an advanced All-Wheel Drive system. The i-VTM4 technology provides excellent traction and stability for Canadian driving conditions, balancing on-road performance with light off-road capability.
The distinction between AWD and 4WD in the Honda Pilot is largely academic for most Canadian drivers. The system provides the all-weather capability and sure-footed handling that SUV buyers seek without the complexity and fuel economy penalties often associated with traditional 4WD systems. However, as automotive technology evolves, the line between AWD and 4WD systems may become increasingly blurred. What matters most is how well the system performs in real-world conditions. In this regard, the Honda Pilot has proven itself a capable and reliable choice for Canadian drivers.
