Is the Acura MDX FWD or RWD?
The Acura MDX is not a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. It is offered with front-wheel drive (FWD) as the standard layout, with all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) available on most trims. There is no pure RWD MDX in the current lineup. The high-performance MDX Type S is AWD-only.
In practice, that means buyers choose between FWD for lower cost and improved efficiency, or SH-AWD for enhanced traction in adverse conditions and spirited driving. Availability of SH-AWD varies by trim and model year, but most recent MDX models can be configured with SH-AWD. Pure RWD is not offered.
Drivetrain options in the current MDX lineup
Overview of the current drivetrain configurations in the MDX lineup.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Standard on the base MDX; offers the simplest, most efficient setup.
- Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD): Available on most trims and becomes standard on higher trims; provides improved traction and handling, especially in rain, snow, or sporty driving.
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Not offered for the MDX in the current lineup.
Bottom line: The modern Acura MDX is built around FWD with an optional SH-AWD system; there is no traditional RWD version, and the MDX Type S uses SH-AWD exclusively.
How to verify the drivetrain when shopping
When shopping for a used or new MDX, use these checks to confirm the drivetrain before you buy.
- Check the vehicle's window sticker or build sheet to confirm FWD or SH-AWD. The sticker will indicate the drivetrain configuration.
- Look for AWD or SH-AWD badges on the exterior or near the rear of the vehicle; the Type S will carry its own badge and unique styling cues.
- Ask the dealer for the exact configuration and a copy of the build sheet or VIN-based option report to verify the drivetrain code.
- Note that a test drive can reveal AWD behavior, such as torque distribution and road feel in slippery conditions.
Bottom line: Verifying the drivetrain at purchase helps ensure you get the MDX configuration you expect, especially if you’re comparing FWD versus SH-AWD.
Summary: The Acura MDX is designed with front-wheel drive as standard, with Honda/Acura's SH-AWD available on most trims and required for the Type S. There is no rear-wheel-drive MDX in the current lineup.
Are there any RWD Acuras?
No, most Acuras are not rear-wheel drive (RWD); they are typically front-wheel drive (FWD) or have an all-wheel drive (AWD) system, with the exception of the all-electric Acura ZDX, which is available as a RWD model. The RWD ZDX is the base model, while other versions of the ZDX and most other Acura models come with dual-motor AWD or a FWD/AWD drivetrain.
Acura drive types
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): The all-electric Acura ZDX is available with a single-motor RWD configuration.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): The Acura ZDX is also available with a dual-motor AWD system, and models like the TLX, RDX, and MDX come with their own version of all-wheel drive.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Some base models of Acura vehicles, such as the original TL and TSX, were originally FWD.
Key takeaways
- If you're looking for a RWD Acura, the all-electric ZDX is the only model that offers this option.
- Most other Acura models are either front-wheel drive or have an all-wheel-drive system, so RWD is not a common drivetrain for the brand.
Is the Acura MDX a four wheel drive?
MDX Powertrains
Rear-biased Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ gives you precision control of your MDX by sending power to all four wheels. A 10-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters keep you in the torque band for power on demand.
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Available on some of the most popular Acura models including the RDX, MDX, and TLX – Acura has pioneered the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) to excel in some of the world's harshest environments.
