Honda CR-V FWD vs AWD
The Honda CR-V offers both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, which enhance performance in various weather conditions.
For example, FWD is ideal for daily city driving and is more fuel-efficient, making it a more affordable option. On the other hand, AWD is perfect for off-roading, providing better traction and increased stability. Each option has its own benefits and trade-offs.
Buyers considering a CR-V need to decide between FWD and AWD based on factors like cost and driving preferences. This article extensively explores the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of the Honda CR-V FWD vs. AWD.
Defining Fwd and Awd
The various wheel drive systems available in the market confuse buyers. The commonly used acronyms that refer to the systems include:
- FWD (front-wheel drive)
- AWD (all-wheel drive)
- 4WD (four-wheel drive)
The wheel drive systems differ depending on which wheels set obtain power from the engine.
Although AWD and 4WD systems promote better traction, they differ in functionality and application. AWD automatically and continually regulates front and rear wheel power distribution depending on road conditions, while 4WD requires manual activation when extra traction is required.
AWD offers stability on different road surfaces, strengthening general handling and control due to the constant power supply. This feature makes it an excellent choice for daily driving conditions where additional traction may sometimes be required. 4WD systems are designed for extreme weather conditions, requiring extreme force to overcome hindrances.
FWD drive system vehicles use only the two front wheels to initiate power. This feature makes them lighter and more fuel-efficient than AWD systems. FWD system simplicity minimizes production costs while boosting gas mileage. This factor enhances practicality and does not compromise performance.
AWD systems prioritize versatility, while FWD systems value efficiency. Honda CR-V does not offer 4WD systems. Only FWD and AWD versions are available.
Pros and Cons
CR-V AWD
Pros:
- AWD enhances traction on vehicles, allowing for smoother rides on slippery road conditions like snow.
Cons
- The extra weight and mechanical resistance in AWD systems lower the gas mileage.
- It is expensive to purchase AWD vehicles.
- AWD vehicles have a high maintenance cost due to their complexity and additional mechanical parts that require experts to repair.
- AWD vehicles have increased production expenses due to the complexity of their components, including transfer cases.
- The higher sticker price is due to additional complexity, manufacturing, repair costs, and the higher market price tag.
CR-V FWD
Pros
- FWD vehicles get higher gas mileage due to their lighter weight and less energy used to overcome mechanical resistance. Better gas mileage reduces carbon emissions.
- Lower maintenance costs are due to the simplicity of the FWD drive system.
- FWD vehicles have a low sticker price since they are affordable, have fewer parts to manufacture, and are less expensive to fix.
Cons
- FWD vehicles have less traction in slick conditions since the two front wheels deliver power.
HANDLING AND TRACTION
The AWD driving system guarantees confidence and stability when speeding through sharp bends. AWD provides control of the vehicle’s movement, allowing smooth bending and minimizing sliding risk since there is a power supply throughout the four wheels. The Honda CR-V AWD vehicle is an all-weather road companion.
The FWD variant has difficulty maintaining grip and stability while accelerating because it is two-wheel-powered. In contrast, the AWD version easily maintains its grip because all the wheels receive enough power for maximum traction.
This feature makes AWD the best choice for handling all road conditions. The AWD system keeps vehicles firm on the road, enhancing relaxation throughout.
STICKER PRICE
The higher sticker price for AWD is due to extra manufacturing and repair costs. AWD’s system complexity, including transfer cases, maximizes production expenses. AWD systems frequently need experts to perform repairs, increasing maintenance costs.
If you are considering the CR-V with AWD, be prepared to see this reflected in the sticker price. AWD typically adds around $1,500 to the sticker price compared to a CR-V with FWD.
This increase carries over to the used car market, where a used CR-V with AWD also costs more than its FWD version.
GAS MILEAGE
AWD and 4WD vehicles have enhanced grip and stability, adversely affecting fuel economy. The extra weight and mechanical resistance needed to rotate the four wheels significantly impact AWD vehicles’ efficiency. More energy is required to control resistance when power is distributed to each wheel, worsening fuel consumption.
AWD vehicles can get a lower gas mileage per gallon than FWD vehicles. FWD vehicles have a higher gas mileage, which results in less carbon dioxide emissions, making them eco-friendly.
MAINTENANCE
The high maintenance cost of AWD vehicles seems disadvantageous, although extra maintenance is vital to ensure maximum performance and durability of the AWD system. Taking care of transfer cases, differentials, and drive shafts guarantees a smooth driving experience.
All four tires’ tread wear in an AWD vehicle needs to be kept consistent since one damaged tire might result in replacing multiple tires to achieve an even tread, resulting in extra expenses.
Some CR-V owners have also reported experiencing malfunctions in their AWD system at some point during ownership. The most common error message seen on the multi-information display is “All Wheel Drive System Problem.”
AWD System Malfunction messages may result from factors like Insufficient or Poor-Quality AWD Oil, Faulty Transfer Case, and dirty AWD System. It is advisable to investigate such a message before assuming the AWD has a severe issue.
Which Should You Choose?
You might be one of the many car buyers wondering whether the CR-V FWD or AWD is the best choice for you.
The bottom line is that if you expect to face a lot of bad weather, such as heavy rain or snowfall throughout the year, then the Honda CR-V AWD might be worth it.
The CR-V AWD is a great option if you plan to drive on dirt, gravel, sand, snow, etc. FWD is preferable if you want to save money and don’t really need the extra traction offered by AWD.
While FWD is not particularly favored for snow, equipping it with a good set of winter tires makes the CR-V FWD more than enough to get you through the winter safely.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Choosing between the CR-V FWD and AWD models depends on personal needs and preferences. The FWD variant is affordable and fuel-efficient, ideal for well-maintained urban roads. The AWD model is an all-season road vehicle with enhanced traction and stability.
Due to AWD vehicles’ higher purchase and maintenance costs, buyers may prefer to choose an FWD vehicle with a good tire set.
