Is the 2010 Acura TL FWD or RWD?
The 2010 Acura TL is primarily front-wheel drive (FWD). An all-wheel-drive variant known as TL SH-AWD was offered on select trims; there is no factory rear-wheel-drive configuration in the lineup.
In this article, we explain how the 2010 TL’s drivetrain is configured, what SH-AWD adds, and how to identify which setup a given car has. The information helps buyers and owners understand what to expect from this model year.
Drivetrain options for the 2010 TL
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) — standard on most 2010 TL models
For the majority of 2010 TL sedans, the engine’s power is sent to the front wheels. FWD provides predictable handling, good efficiency for everyday driving, and is the baseline configuration for the TL lineup.
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) — optional on TL trims
SH-AWD is Acura’s advanced all-wheel-drive system designed to optimize traction and handling. In the 2010 TL, SH-AWD distributes torque to all four wheels and uses torque vectoring to send power to the outside rear wheel in corners. This can improve stability in slick conditions and enhance cornering grip, though it adds weight and can affect fuel economy compared to FWD.
Model-year context and identification
Not every 2010 TL came equipped with SH-AWD. If you are shopping for a used TL, look for an SH-AWD badge on the trunk or consult the window sticker to confirm the drivetrain. Availability of SH-AWD varied by trim and market.
Summary
In short, the 2010 Acura TL is not a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. It is offered in a standard front-wheel-drive configuration, with an optional SH-AWD all-wheel-drive system on certain trims. Prospective buyers should verify the drivetrain on any specific car to confirm which setup it uses.
Is the 2010 Acura TL front or rear-wheel-drive?
front wheels
The standard 3.5-liter V-6 develops 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque and drives the front wheels through a sophisticated Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control System.
Are any Acura RWD?
No, most Acuras are front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, but some models, like the all-electric 2024 ZDX, offer a rear-wheel drive (RWD) option. The ZDX A-Spec is available with a single motor and rear-wheel drive, while other Acuras typically use their Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system.
Acura models with RWD
- Acura ZDX: The base model of the all-electric ZDX is available with a single electric motor, which drives the rear wheels, making it a rear-wheel drive vehicle.
Acura models with other drivetrains
- AWD: Most other modern Acura SUVs and sedans use their Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which is standard on models like the RDX and available on the TLX.
- FWD: Many of Acura's historical models were front-wheel drive, but this is less common in their current lineup, which emphasizes AWD for better performance.
- RWD: Historically, Acura has made few RWD vehicles. The NSX supercar was a notable exception, but most other Acura models have not been RWD.
What is the bad year for the Acura TL?
You should avoid Acura TL years 1999–2006, particularly 2003, due to significant transmission issues. Other years to be cautious of include 2007–2008 for a more robust transmission, but still some potential problems with the Bluetooth system and mounts, and 2009–2014 for torque converter issues. The 2010 model year also experienced excessive oil consumption.
Years with significant transmission problems
- 1999–2006: These models, especially the 2003 and early 3rd generation (2004–2006), are known for major automatic transmission failures, slipping, and hard shifting.
- 2004–2006: While better than earlier models, these are still prone to transmission failure and should be approached with caution.
Years with other notable issues
- 2007–2008: These years have a more reliable transmission, but owners have reported issues with the hands-free Bluetooth draining the battery and failing.
- 2009–2014: Some models have reported torque converter problems, which can be expensive to fix.
- 2006: This year had several recalls and issues, including a faulty display screen, power steering leaks, and frozen rear brake calipers.
- 2010: This model year is known for excessive oil consumption, with engines showing no leaks.
Years to consider for better reliability
- 2007–2008: Generally considered the most reliable, especially compared to the years immediately before them.
- 2013–2014: Some owners report these years as very reliable.
Other factors to consider
- Manual Transmission: If buying an automatic, aim for the 2007–2008 models. A manual transmission from any year is often a more reliable option.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Proper maintenance is crucial for any used car, especially for models with known issues. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle and review its maintenance history before purchasing.
Is the Acura TL FWD or RWD?
The Acura TL is a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle, but some models also came with all-wheel drive (AWD) in the form of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). There are no traditional rear-wheel-drive (RWD) versions of the Acura TL.
Acura TL drivetrains
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): The base model Acura TL is standard front-wheel drive.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): For improved performance, Acura offered an optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system on some models, particularly in higher trims.
Key differences
- FWD: Lighter and often quicker off the line, but can experience more torque steer (a pulling sensation in the steering wheel).
- AWD (SH-AWD): This system actively distributes torque to the wheels, including sending more power to the outside rear wheel during turns, which improves handling and traction.
