Is Honda Ridgeline AWD All the Time? How i-VTM4 Really Works

On modern AWD Honda Ridgelines, you do not switch the i-VTM4 system on and off for normal driving. The AWD system operates automatically and continuously manages how much engine torque is sent front-to-rear and between the rear wheels according to driving conditions. That does not mean all four wheels receive the same torque at every moment.

The previous AutoZonic article incorrectly said Ridgeline AWD had to be manually activated, used Honda Real Time 4WD, and could only operate below a certain speed.

What “always on” means here

Honda describes i-VTM4 as a proactive all-wheel-drive system. It monitors vehicle conditions and varies torque distribution automatically. The driver does not need to wait for wheelspin or press an AWD button before the system can respond.

Because torque is variable, “full-time AWD” should not be confused with a fixed 25/25/25/25 power split. The system may send different amounts of torque to the front axle and each rear wheel depending on conditions.

Can the driver change how the AWD system behaves?

Yes—through Intelligent Traction Management, not by turning AWD itself on or off. On the 2021 Ridgeline, the driver can choose Normal, Snow, Mud or Sand modes. Those modes adjust the way the throttle, transmission, stability-control and AWD systems work together.

Did every Ridgeline year have the same AWD setup?

No. The original Ridgeline used Honda’s older VTM-4WD system, while the second-generation truck uses i-VTM4 AWD. Drivetrain availability also changed by year. For example, Honda made i-VTM4 AWD standard on every 2021 Ridgeline trim.

Related Honda Ridgeline guides

• Honda Ridgeline AWD vs 4WD explained
• Do you need to turn Ridgeline AWD on?
• VTM-4 vs i-VTM4
• Honda Ridgeline research hub

Sources

• Honda Information Center — i-VTM4 AWD
• Honda Information Center — 2021 Ridgeline specifications

About this article

Updated August 9, 2026 by the AutoZonic Editorial Team. The old AI-generated article contained incorrect manual-activation, drivetrain and fuel-economy claims. This revision explains automatic i-VTM4 operation without duplicating the broader AWD-vs-4WD guide.