Is the Acura RDX 4 wheel drive?

The Acura RDX is a compact luxury SUV that many shoppers consider for its blend of technology, comfort, and performance. When evaluating traction systems, buyers want to know whether it uses four-wheel drive in the traditional sense or an all-wheel-drive setup.

Yes—the Acura RDX can be equipped with all-wheel drive. The system used by Acura is SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive), and in most trims AWD is available or standard; some configurations use front-wheel drive as the base option.

Drivetrain options for the RDX

These are the main traction configurations you’ll find across model years; knowing which you have helps with weather performance and fuel economy.

• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): The standard configuration on some trims; powers only the front wheels under normal conditions.


• All-Wheel Drive with SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive): Available across many trims; distributes power to all four wheels and uses torque vectoring to improve grip and handling, especially in rain, snow, and spirited driving.

The RDX’s drivetrain choice affects handling, fuel economy, and capability in adverse weather. Check the window sticker or build sheet for your exact model year and trim to confirm which system it uses.

SH-AWD performance and efficiency implications

Understanding what SH-AWD brings beyond FWD helps explain why many buyers choose it. The system enhances stability and cornering confidence, particularly in low-traction conditions, but it can come with a small mpg penalty compared to FWD.

How SH-AWD works

• Torque vectoring: SH-AWD can divert torque between left and right wheels for sharper turns and better grip.


• Weather and traction: Improves acceleration and braking on wet, snowy, or slippery surfaces.


• Handling dynamics: Contributes to a more planted feel in spirited driving and highway merging.


• Fuel economy trade-offs: AWD versions typically have slightly lower mpg vs. FWD models, depending on year and configuration.

In short, SH-AWD offers tangible benefits for traction and handling, with a potential minor impact on fuel economy.

How to tell if your RDX has AWD

Several simple checks can confirm whether your RDX uses AWD. If you’re shopping or reviewing a used model, these cues help verify the drivetrain.

• Badge indicators: Look for an SH-AWD or AWD badge on the rear hatch; absence of AWD badge often indicates FWD on older or base models.


• Window sticker or build sheet: The original documentation lists the drivetrain configuration (FWD or SH-AWD).


• Owner’s manual or infotainment display: Many models show the active drivetrain status in the vehicle’s information screens.


• VIN lookup or dealer confirmation: A dealer can confirm the drivetrain by VIN or build sheet.

If you’re unsure, ask the dealer to confirm whether the specific RDX you’re considering uses SH-AWD or FWD for that model year and trim.

Summary

The Acura RDX is designed with two drivetrain options: front-wheel drive as a base configuration and all-wheel drive via SH-AWD as a widely available upgrade. SH-AWD enhances traction and handling, particularly in poor weather, but can affect fuel economy slightly. Always verify the exact drivetrain on a given vehicle through the window sticker, dealer, or build sheet.

Does the Acura SUV have 4 wheel drive?

Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is available for the 2022 TLX sport sedan, 2022 MDX performance SUV, and 2022 RDX sport crossover. While SH-AWD is an optional upgrade on every trim level, there are certain packages that come standard equipped with the NSX-inspired drivetrain, and those models can be found below.

What is the common problem of Acura RDX?

Common Acura RDX problems include infotainment system glitches (like Bluetooth connectivity and screen freezing), wind noise and leaks (particularly from the panoramic sunroof and windshield), engine issues (such as oil dilution or intercooler problems on some models), and brake-related complaints (like squealing and premature wear). Some model years are also associated with specific recalls or complaints, with the 2020 model year having a higher frequency of issues reported.
 
This video discusses common problems with Acura RDX models from 2019 to 2024, including fuel pump issues and drive axle problems: 58sHOWSTUFFINMYCARWORKSYouTube · May 24, 2024
Infotainment and electronics

• Poor Bluetooth connectivity: Some models experience issues with Bluetooth not connecting consistently or having poor quality. 
• Android Auto issues: Users report problems with Android Auto, including connection issues and difficult control. 
• Screen problems: Some owners have reported the display screen going blank or the rearview camera having an intermittent display issue. 
• Audio glitches: Popping or crackling noises from the speakers have been reported, sometimes requiring a system reboot. 

This video highlights the infotainment system issues experienced by some Acura RDX owners: 56sAcura AddictedYouTube · Dec 7, 2023
Exterior and body

• Wind noise and leaks: Squeaks, rattles, and wind noise are common complaints, along with air and water leaks. 
• Sunroof and windshield issues: The large panoramic sunroof and the windshield have been known to cause creaking or popping noises, especially when driving on uneven surfaces, and the sunroof can sometimes malfunction or break. 
• Paint problems: Some newer models have reports of paint fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking. 

Engine and mechanical

• Oil dilution: In some third-generation models, gasoline can contaminate the engine oil, a condition indicated by a smell of gasoline and runny oil. 
• Intercooler issue: A design flaw in some 2020 and 2021 models could lead to moisture entering the engine, potentially causing power loss or stalling. 
• Brake problems: Squealing, pulsation, or vibration from the brakes are frequently reported issues. Premature wear of brake pads and rotors has also been noted. 
• Transmission hesitation: Some drivers report hesitation during gear shifts, sometimes after a fluid change or software update. 

This video provides an overview of the top 5 problems in 3rd generation Acura RDX models, including issues with the windshield and sunroof: 59s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Oct 12, 2022
Other potential issues

• Electrical problems: Untraceable electrical issues that drain the battery have been reported. 
• Poor gas mileage: Some owners report lower-than-expected gas mileage. 
• Rust: Rust has been cited as an issue on some vehicles. 

Does the Acura RDX have 4WD?

As of the 2024 model year, SH-AWD is standard on all RDX trims, with FWD being dropped as an option.

What does snow mode do in Acura RDX?

In addition to Normal, Comfort, and Sport settings – select Acura models including the RDX and MDX offer a dedicated Snow Mode setting. When engaged, Snow Mode helps to boost both confidence and traction by automatically distributing the necessary amount of power to each individual wheel of your Acura vehicle.