2WD vs. 4WD

[AMartin777]

Is there any "real" advantage to the 4WD - EX vs. the 2WD - EX? I am looking to purchase one in the next few weeks and I am debating on spending the extra for the 4WD... All input appreciated.

[2RedV's]

Where do you live and how do you intend to use the vehicle? Those are the 2 questions that matter.

The RTAWD models list at $1200 more than the 2wd models with the same trim level. Long-term, the RTAWD models seem to retain most if not more than that initial $1200 extra so it sure isn't a bad option to get even if you live in South Florida. However, maybe beach driving comes into play then?
If you sell it yourself later on, it is a lot easier to sell with RTAWD. Downside is a slight (maybe 1mpg) decrease in fuel economy.

[Sport150]

1200 isn't to much more to spend for the benefit of 4WD, especially if you live in snow country (we live in NE). On the other hand my wife and I were interested in the lowest cost option and bought the 2WD LX. We traded in an Accord, so going with the 2WD (front wheel drive) CR-V wasn't an unknown. We also have a Honda Ridgeline, so we did not feel the need for two 4WD vehicles.

Having driven both the 2WD and 4WD versions I find the 2WD version slightly zippier and more nimble. It's quite noticeable imo. 2WD adds 2mpg and lowers the vehicle weight by ~140lbs.

As far as trade in value that would depend on how long you intend to have the car. The 2WD may actually reduce maitenance and increase longevity.

[miko]

I agree with 2Red's comment. 4WD is an advantage when selling.

[Greenzter]

May as well add my 2 cents. In most parts of the country 2WD SUV's are a bit of a joke. :) Sorry.

Minivans without sliding doors. :D

[2RedV's]

May as well add my 2 cents. In most parts of the country 2WD SUV's are a bit of a joke. :) Sorry.

Minivans without sliding doors. :D

Good point. Plus, they are harder to selll or trade-in.

[AMartin777]

I purchased the 2WD version and I have been very happy with it. In fact, in light of the recent unpleasantness around the rear differential, I'm glad I didn't get the 4WD version.

The 2WD does seem to run smoother than the 4WD. I test drove both extensively and could clearly tell a difference.

7,000 miles and happy, happy, joy, joy!

[Greenzter]

The 2WD does seem to run smoother than the 4WD. I test drove both extensively and could clearly tell a difference.Clearly? Everything being the same, tires etc, I doubt it.

[2RedV's]

Clearly? Everything being the same, tires etc, I doubt it.

There is an approximate 120 pound weight difference.

[PamelaSue]

I currently have a 2003 Odyssey but I am thinking of downsizing to the CR-V 2007. I love the Ody and I am wondering if anyone has an opinion on making that switch. It is mostly for economical reasons and I do not need the room of the Ody. I would love to hear any opinions on the downsize. Thanks so much! PamelaSue

[2RedV's]

I currently have a 2003 Odyssey but I am thinking of downsizing to the CR-V 2007. I love the Ody and I am wondering if anyone has an opinion on making that switch. It is mostly for economical reasons and I do not need the room of the Ody. I would love to hear any opinions on the downsize. Thanks so much! PamelaSue

I am not sure how you could use "economical reasons" as to the reason to buy a new vehicle? If gas mileage is your concern, you need to do the math. You won't come out ahead on doing a Ody vs CRV comparison. Insurance costs may also be higher.

[equest]

Back to the 2wd vs 4wd, does 4wd make a difference when corning hard on dry land like going thru windy hills? I want to get a CR-V but don't know if I should get 2wd or 4wd. I live in the SF bay area and would hardly make trips to the snow.

[2RedV's]

Back to the 2wd vs 4wd, does 4wd make a difference when corning hard on dry land like going thru windy hills? I want to get a CR-V but don't know if I should get 2wd or 4wd. I live in the SF bay area and would hardly make trips to the snow.No. It does help in the wet though - as in rain.

[connermt]

Back to the 2wd vs 4wd, does 4wd make a difference when corning hard on dry land like going thru windy hills? I want to get a CR-V but don't know if I should get 2wd or 4wd. I live in the SF bay area and would hardly make trips to the snow.

The only time it may help is if the front wheels would slip on dirty/sandy/dusty roads. The CR-V's AWD system isn't like that on an EVO or STi.

[equest]

Good, in that case I might not need the 4wd, since I drive carefully/slower anyways whether it rains or I'm on a dusty road or a curve especially when driving trucks, vans and SUVs.

[connermt]

Good, in that case I might not need the 4wd, since I drive carefully/slower anyways whether it rains or I'm on a dusty road or a curve especially when driving trucks, vans and SUVs.

That was my thinking also. With traction control, ABS (etc) AWD seemed like overkill for me, but I got it anyway, due to lack of FWD availability. Oh well.....

[Black Pearl]

I currently have a 2003 Odyssey but I am thinking of downsizing to the CR-V 2007. I love the Ody and I am wondering if anyone has an opinion on making that switch. It is mostly for economical reasons and I do not need the room of the Ody. I would love to hear any opinions on the downsize. Thanks so much! PamelaSue

If you love your Ody, I would becareful of downsizing. I downsized from a Plymouth Voyager on its last legs and gave up a lot of comfort. I understand Ody's are pretty plush compared to a Plymouth. You don't detect this stuff on a 20 minute test drive. You find out when you have driven the vehicle for 3 hours. If you don't spend a lot time in the vehicle then it is of little consequence. But I am not looking forward to long drives in my CR-V.

[equest]

...... But I am not looking forward to long drives in my CR-V.

I'm sure the 2007 CR-V is more comfortable for long drives than a Honda Civic or other small cars.

[Black Pearl]

That is why I bought a CR-V. I tried sitting in a Fit. Neat little car with a lot of room, all of it 6" of the ground, but my body don't bend in the ways required to get it in. Getting out was even worse. But believe me compared to Ody a CR-V is a rough ride.

My spirtual adviser in automotive matters told me that an Ody was placed in some racing competition with a late 60's Jag XKE, one of the primiere sports cars of its time. The stock Ody beat the Jag in every facet of the competition. Ody's are pretty nice vehicles.

[rrbhokies]

We have both an '05 Odyssey and an '07 CRV. The Odyssey is definitely the plusher ride, but the CRV is more fun to drive. However, it's like comparing apples to oranges.

I thought about getting an Accord or Civic, because I missed the driving feel of a sedan. However, it's just too darn hard these days to get in/out of the Accord or Civic because you sit so low. The CRV has been a great fit for me because you sit up higher, yet it handles very well on back roads. It drives very much like a sedan. Sure you feel everything (and hear everything too), but that's expected for a small 4 cylinder vehicle. But it's also all that feedback that translates into an experience that you are part of the road, which I happen to enjoy.

[connermt]

We have both an '05 Odyssey and an '07 CRV. The Odyssey is definitely the plusher ride, but the CRV is more fun to drive. However, it's like comparing apples to oranges.

I thought about getting an Accord or Civic, because I missed the driving feel of a sedan. However, it's just too darn hard these days to get in/out of the Accord or Civic because you sit so low. The CRV has been a great fit for me because you sit up higher, yet it handles very well on back roads. It drives very much like a sedan. Sure you feel everything (and hear everything too), but that's expected for a small 4 cylinder vehicle. But it's also all that feedback that translates into an experience that you are part of the road, which I happen to enjoy.

I was surprised about how loud the engine actually is inside the cabin of the CR-V. A little more NVH insulation would be nice for future models I think.

[Black Pearl]

I was surprised about how loud the engine actually is inside the cabin of the CR-V. A little more NVH insulation would be nice for future models I think.

Excellent observation, and from what I read in another thread you may be able to do something about that. Although anyone who likes those door handles....Hmmmm!

[Black Pearl]

We have both an '05 Odyssey and an '07 CRV. The Odyssey is definitely the plusher ride, but the CRV is more fun to drive. However, it's like comparing apples to oranges.

I thought about getting an Accord or Civic, because I missed the driving feel of a sedan. However, it's just too darn hard these days to get in/out of the Accord or Civic because you sit so low. The CRV has been a great fit for me because you sit up higher, yet it handles very well on back roads. It drives very much like a sedan. Sure you feel everything (and hear everything too), but that's expected for a small 4 cylinder vehicle. But it's also all that feedback that translates into an experience that you are part of the road, which I happen to enjoy.

You have to drive from New York City to Los Angeles. Which car will you take, the Ody or the CR-V? And if you don't mind, how old are you?

You are right though, it is like comparing apples to oranges, and don't get me wrong, I like the CR-V. But when you only have one hunk of fruit to drive, I would be very reluctant to trade in a Ody in good shape for a CRV. Me it was a no brainer. My Plymouth van was falling apart. I wanted better gas mileage than the Ody. A loaded CR-V comes in at the same price as a plain jane Ody. The CR-V is cool. The first cool car in long time. But at 58 comfort counts too. I'll get used to it. If money was no object, I would go with the Ody, but the CRV is definetly a cooler ride (providing it is no longer than 3 hours-cool wears out real fast on arthritic bones).

[connermt]

Excellent observation, and from what I read in another thread you may be able to do something about that. Although anyone who likes those door handles....Hmmmm!

Hey now....:p
I can't help I have good taste
:D ;)

[connermt]

You have to drive from New York City to Los Angeles. Which car will you take, the Ody or the CR-V? And if you don't mind, how old are you?

You are right though, it is like comparing apples to oranges, and don't get me wrong, I like the CR-V. But when you only have one hunk of fruit to drive, I would be very reluctant to trade in a Ody in good shape for a CRV. Me it was a no brainer. My Plymouth van was falling apart. I wanted better gas mileage than the Ody. A loaded CR-V comes in at the same price as a plain jane Ody. The CR-V is cool. The first cool car in long time. But at 58 comfort counts too. I'll get used to it. If money was no object, I would go with the Ody, but the CRV is definetly a cooler ride (providing it is no longer than 3 hours-cool wears out real fast on arthritic bones).

Not to butt-in, however:
I, of course, have a 07 CR-V & just yesterday had a road trip in the company Ody (with 74K miles). The Ody's tranny was wonderful! Much better than the CR-V's by far; shifts were so smooth that I had to check the tach to see if it was shifting. Ride was good, (better than CR-V, but that was expected) although I don't think the CR-V's ride is bad at all. The Ody's seats were horrible (compared to the CR-Vs) - hard & uncomfortable. And the brakes needed a lot more attention to get it stopped (company vehicles are routinely checked so everything was in good working order). Granted it is a larger vehicle & all...
The throttle needed a lot more effort to get it going, but once it did, that 3.5 was down right aggressive, especially for a mini-van. Used ½ tank for about 200 miles of freeway speeds between 65-70 with cruise on, AC on & 3 people.

[25 Year Honda Owner]

Anyone traded a late model Accord for a CR-V? As I get a little older it seems like I am having to fall into my '05 EX-L and climb out. Do you think it would be any easier to enter and exit a CR-V than an Accord? BTW, 2-wd vs 4-wd, I would most likely go with the 2-wd as I have had FWD since a 1981 Accord and have not been stuck yet. 1st post here, also belong to the Ridgeline Owners Club.:)

[2RedV's]

Anyone traded a late model Accord for a CR-V? As I get a little older it seems like I am having to fall into my '05 EX-L and climb out. Do you think it would be any easier to enter and exit a CR-V than an Accord? BTW, 2-wd vs 4-wd, I would most likely go with the 2-wd as I have had FWD since a 1981 Accord and have not been stuck yet. 1st post here, also belong to the Ridgeline Owners Club.:)Welcome!

It is a lot easier getting in/out of a CR-V than an Accord.

[CRVPiggy]

My father in law has the same problem. My mother in law has an Accord, and he complains that it is hard for him to get in and out of it (he's 63). When he got in my new V though, he loved it. He actually commented on how much easier it was to get in and out of it than their Accord. My previous vehicles were a truck (Toyota Tacoma) which was higher than my V and a little sedan (Nissan Sentra) which was much lower. The V seems to be the perfect middle ground as far as height goes. I would definetly recommend it if you're looking for something that is easier to get in and out of.

[25 Year Honda Owner]

My father in law has the same problem. My mother in law has an Accord, and he complains that it is hard for him to get in and out of it (he's 63). When he got in my new V though, he loved it. He actually commented on how much easier it was to get in and out of it than their Accord. My previous vehicles were a truck (Toyota Tacoma) which was higher than my V and a little sedan (Nissan Sentra) which was much lower. The V seems to be the perfect middle ground as far as height goes. I would definetly recommend it if you're looking for something that is easier to get in and out of.

Thanks for the feed back. I have had 12 Accords, it is going to be hard to change. We have the RL that is a dream to drive, but need the 4 cyl for ecomony. We do take the RL on longer trips due primarily to the comfort, ride, and drive.

[Black Pearl]

I am still in the new car curve, I have only had my CR-V a week. I bought it because I essentially wanted a small vehicle with good gas mileage that you sit high in. I think I got all that. It is definetly easy to get in and out, maybe not as easy as my previous mini-van but not bad.

But...

If I drive the vehicle for any period of time I seem to get fatigued very easilly. I have bad back and the seats are hard, and the ride is firm. I could drive my mini-van for 6 hours and not feel fatigued. The CR-V starts wearing me out after two hours. I have changed the seat position to a more vertical orientation and that may help, even though I fell like I want to move it back.

I can't say that the seats are unduly hard, and the firm ride I actually prefer, but the vehicle seems to beat the hell out of me if I drive longer than an hour or so.

[25 Year Honda Owner]

I am still in the new car curve, I have only had my CR-V a week. I bought it because I essentially wanted a small vehicle with good gas mileage that you sit high in. I think I got all that. It is definetly easy to get in and out, maybe not as easy as my previous mini-van but not bad.

But...

If I drive the vehicle for any period of time I seem to get fatigued very easilly. I have bad back and the seats are hard, and the ride is firm. I could drive my mini-van for 6 hours and not feel fatigued. The CR-V starts wearing me out after two hours. I have changed the seat position to a more vertical orientation and that may help, even though I fell like I want to move it back.

I can't say that the seats are unduly hard, and the firm ride I actually prefer, but the vehicle seems to beat the hell out of me if I drive longer than an hour or so.

Don't understand why there is not a power seat on the EX-L models. Just the slightest adjustment makes for a lot of comfort on extended trips.

[cwalti]

That was my thinking also. With traction control, ABS (etc) AWD seemed like overkill for me, but I got it anyway, due to lack of FWD availability. Oh well.....


My approach is: If 4WD is offered on a Honda model, I will have it. Both my '05 CR-V EX and my '07 Element have the 4WD option. I have used it on both and when (...should I ever) sell it, I get my $$$ back. The minor additional maintenance is negligible... -- and to fuss over a slightly lesser MPG isn't exactly rational either. Oh, BTW, I have noticed that the two 4WD systems differ quite a bit. The CR-V has a ball-ramp-race for 'instant' engagement, the Element does not. How many different 4WD systems are there?

[2RedV's]

I believe that the CR-V and Element share the same rear differential.

[cwalti]

I believe that the CR-V and Element share the same rear differential.

Mine do NOT! The function concept is similar, but the construction and the components are not. My Element does not have the ball-ramp-race as does the wife's CR-V...

[Parkworker]

Go with the AWD model.

I live in the Northeast area which can get a lot of snow during the winter and working as a Park Ranger i'm required to report to work on my scheduled shift regardless of weather conditions.

I have used my AWD CR-V to drive through deep snow on unshoveled park roadways many times and had no problems. (My co-worker driving a Saturn SUV got stuck numerous times on the same road i had just travelled with no problems!!)

I have also used my CRV on muddy unpaved dirt farm roads and muddy, rocky unpaved dirt park roads as well as light off-road driving with no problems.

But Remember that just because you have All Wheel Drive doesn't mean you can drive like you normally do when travelling through snow or mud. You have to drive carefully and slowly through snow and mud and on unpaved roads. Whenever traveling in Snow Conditions I suggest bringing a shovel with you "Just in case". And remember that while you can use the CR-V offroad for light off road travel it is NOT for TrailBlazing!

[2RedV's]

Mine do NOT! The function concept is similar, but the construction and the components are not. My Element does not have the ball-ramp-race as does the wife's CR-V...What in the heck is "ball-ramp-race"? I have never heard that term applied to a rear diff in a Cr-V or Element?