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Is the Acura RL AWD?

Yes, the Acura RL is available with an all-wheel drive (AWD) system. The Acura RL is a luxury sedan that was produced by Honda's Acura division from 2004 to 2012. Throughout its production run, the RL was offered with an optional AWD system to provide enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.


Acura RL Overview


The Acura RL was the flagship sedan of the Acura lineup, positioned above the TL and TSX models. It was designed to compete with other luxury sedans such as the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Lexus GS. The RL featured a sophisticated and upscale interior, advanced safety technologies, and a powerful V6 engine.


Acura RL AWD System


The Acura RL was available with an optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. This advanced AWD system was designed to provide enhanced traction, stability, and handling performance. The SH-AWD system could dynamically distribute torque between the front and rear wheels, as well as between the left and right rear wheels, to optimize grip and cornering ability.



  • The SH-AWD system could send up to 70% of the engine's power to the rear wheels, and up to 100% of that rear-wheel power to either the left or right rear wheel.

  • This torque-vectoring capability allowed the RL to feel more agile and responsive, especially when cornering at higher speeds.

  • The AWD system also provided improved traction in inclement weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice.


Overall, the Acura RL's available AWD system was a key feature that differentiated it from its rear-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive competitors, and helped to enhance the sedan's all-weather capability and driving dynamics.

What year is the Acura AWD?


In the North American market, Honda introduced the original SH-AWD system in late 2004 with the second generation 2005 Acura RL. Two other SH-AWD variants were introduced in late 2006 in the then all-new 2007 Acura RDX, and the new second generation 2007 Acura MDX sport utility vehicles.



Why did Acura stop making the RL?


Some have suggested that the Acura RL's failure in the market was due to its initial pricing which was perceived to be out of its bracket.



What is the best AWD vehicle?


Best All-Wheel Drive Cars

  • 2025 Hyundai Kona. Save. $27,400. Starting Price.
  • 2025 Toyota Camry. Save. $31,320.
  • 2025 Honda CR-V. Save. $32,995.
  • 2025 Toyota Tacoma Xtracab. Save. $36,285.
  • 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid. Save. $37,545.
  • 2025 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab. Save. $38,485.
  • 2025 Kia Telluride. Save. $42,805.
  • 2025 Genesis GV70. Save. $47,650.



Is Acura RL all-wheel drive?


At the time of its introduction, the Acura RL's SH-AWD was the first all-wheel-drive system to vary the distribution of power not only from front to back, but also side to side in the rear using a technique called torque vectoring.



Which Acura models have AWD?


Which Acura models have AWD? You can find AWD on the Acura TLX, RLX, RDX, MDX, and NSX. What exactly does Acura AWD technology do for your safety and control on Red Bank roads and beyond? Read on below to learn more about models like the Acura TLX AWD with advanced all-wheel Acura innovation.



Is the Acura RL fast?


"Acceleration also stays essentially flat, with the 0-to-60-mph run taking 6.5 seconds." "Acceleration also stays essentially flat, with the 0-to-60-mph run taking 6.5 seconds." "Despite having only a five-speed automatic, the RL turns about 3,000rpm at the century mark and feels very solid and composed."



Are Acura RL expensive to maintain?


The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Acura RL is $539, compared to an average of $976 for luxury fullsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.



Is Acura TL or RL better?


In comparing the Acura RL's and the Acura TL's specifications and ratings, the Acura RL has the advantage in the areas of interior volume and base engine power. The Acura TL has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and fuel efficiency.



Is an Acura 3.5 RL a good car?


Vehicle overview
The 3.5 RL, Acura's flagship, is athletic, extremely quiet, luxurious and priced right: All of which makes it a serious contender in the luxury sedan market despite its V6, front-drive layout.



Is the 2004 Acura RL FWD or RWD?


Drivetrain

Transmission4-speed automatic
Drive typeFront wheel drive


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.