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Are any Acuras rear-wheel-drive?

No, Acura vehicles are not offered with rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configurations. Acura, the luxury vehicle division of Honda, has traditionally focused on front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) layouts for its lineup of sedans, SUVs, and crossovers.


Acura's Drivetrain Configurations


Acura's current vehicle lineup consists primarily of FWD and AWD models. The brand's sedans, such as the TLX and ILX, utilize FWD as the standard drivetrain setup, with available AWD options. Acura's SUVs and crossovers, including the RDX, MDX, and RLX, also offer FWD as the base configuration, with the option to upgrade to an AWD system.


Historically, Acura has not produced any RWD vehicles. The brand's focus has been on delivering a comfortable, responsive, and efficient driving experience, which has traditionally been better suited to FWD and AWD layouts. RWD configurations are more commonly found in high-performance sports cars and luxury sedans, which are not the primary focus of the Acura brand.


Reasons for Acura's Drivetrain Choices



  • Improved Traction and Handling: FWD and AWD configurations provide better traction and handling in a variety of driving conditions, especially in inclement weather or on slippery surfaces. This aligns with Acura's emphasis on delivering a smooth, confident, and safe driving experience.

  • Packaging and Efficiency: FWD and AWD layouts allow for more efficient packaging of the engine, transmission, and other drivetrain components, which can lead to improved fuel efficiency and interior space utilization.

  • Target Audience: Acura's target audience typically values comfort, practicality, and reliability over pure performance, which are better suited to FWD and AWD setups.


While RWD configurations can offer a more engaging and dynamic driving experience, they are not a priority for Acura's current lineup and customer base. The brand's focus remains on delivering a refined, comfortable, and efficient driving experience through its FWD and AWD offerings.

Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.