Home FAQ

Are any acuras rear-wheel drive?

No, Acura vehicles are not available 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 front-wheel drive models, with available all-wheel drive options on select models. This includes the Acura TLX, RDX, and MDX, which are the brand's most popular sedans and SUVs. The rear-wheel drive layout, which is commonly found in high-performance luxury vehicles, is not offered in any Acura models.

Acura's focus on front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations is in line with Honda's overall engineering philosophy, which emphasizes efficiency, practicality, and everyday drivability. The front-wheel drive layout provides better weight distribution and improved fuel economy, while the available all-wheel drive systems enhance traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Reasons for the Lack of Rear-Wheel Drive Acuras

Acura's target market: Acura's customer base typically prioritizes comfort, practicality, and reliability over high-performance driving dynamics, which are often associated with rear-wheel drive vehicles.

Engineering and cost considerations: Developing a rear-wheel drive platform would require significant engineering resources and investment, which may not align with Acura's overall product strategy and pricing structure.

Honda's engineering expertise: Honda, Acura's parent company, has extensive experience in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive systems, which are more prevalent in the mainstream automotive market.

Competitive positioning: Acura's rivals, such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Lexus, offer rear-wheel drive options, allowing Acura to differentiate itself by focusing on front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.

While Acura does not currently offer any rear-wheel drive models, the company's engineering capabilities and product development strategies may evolve in the future. However, for the foreseeable future, Acura's lineup will continue to emphasize front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive as the primary drivetrain configurations.

Is the Acura TLX RWD?

No, the Acura TLX is not exclusively rear-wheel drive (RWD); it is built on a front-wheel drive (FWD) platform. The base models come with FWD, while all-wheel drive (AWD) is available on many trims, including the standard TLX and the high-performance Type S.

Front-wheel drive (FWD): Standard on the base model, meaning power is sent to the front wheels.
All-wheel drive (AWD): Available on most other trims and standard on the Type S model. This system is a front-wheel drive-based system that can send power to the rear wheels when needed.
No RWD models: Despite the availability of AWD, the TLX has never been manufactured as a true RWD vehicle.

What year of Acura RDX to stay away from?

The Acura RDX years to avoid are generally the 2015, 2019, and 2021 models due to significant issues. The 2019 is often cited as the worst, especially the first model year of the third generation, with problems like engine stalling and power loss. Other years with notable problems include the 2013, 2014, and 2018.
This video discusses common problems with the Acura RDX, including potential engine, transmission, and electrical issues: 59sHey, ask your dadYouTube · May 24, 2025
Years to be cautious about

2013-2015: These years can have transmission issues like rough shifting and slipping, and some models may have engine oil leaks.
2015: In addition to transmission problems, this model year had issues with airbags and the soy-based wiring insulation attracted animals.
2018: Reported transmission problems and potential engine issues like head gasket or timing chain problems have been noted.
2019: This is widely considered the least reliable model year, particularly because it was the first year of a new generation. Owners have reported engine stalling, power loss, and issues with the rear glass shattering.
2021: This year experienced issues with the transmission, brakes, and engine stalling due to a potential intercooler design flaw that could let moisture into the engine.

What to do if buying used

Thoroughly inspect any used model for the specific issues mentioned above.
If considering one of these years, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.
Check for service records and recall history.

This video demonstrates how to inspect an Acura RDX for potential issues, including engine oil leaks and suspension problems: 58sBCauto_YouTube · Aug 21, 2024

Does Acura have rear-wheel-drive?

The ZDX A-Spec® delivers remarkable power with either single-motor rear-wheel-drive or dual-motor all-wheel-drive.

Is the Acura RDX RWD?

Both engine choices come with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

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.