Is the Acura RLX AWD?
Yes. The Acura RLX uses SH-AWD, Acura’s all-wheel-drive system, and AWD is standard on RLX models sold in the U.S. during its production. The RLX was discontinued after the 2020 model year, with the TLX stepping in as Acura’s flagship sedan lineup.
The RLX, introduced in 2014 as Acura’s flagship sedan, paired a 3.5-liter V6 with SH-AWD to deliver traction and refined handling across weather conditions. While Acura has offered front-drive configurations in some models, the RLX lineup was built around all-wheel drive, designed to improve grip and stability whether you’re tackling rain, snow, or a curvy road.
How SH-AWD works in the RLX
SH-AWD distributes power not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels to optimize traction and handling. The system can send torque to the rear wheels and to individual rear wheels to help with cornering and stability.
Key features of SH-AWD in the RLX include:
- Torque-vectoring rear differential: The system can vary torque between the left and right rear wheels to improve cornering grip and stability.
- All-wheel traction management: The system continually monitors wheel slip, steering input, and acceleration to adjust torque between the front and rear axles.
- All-weather and handling benefits: The AWD setup provides enhanced traction in rain, snow, and slippery surfaces, while maintaining a composed feel during spirited driving.
In short, SH-AWD is designed to actively route power to the wheels with the most grip, helping the RLX stay planted in a variety of conditions.
Trims, availability, and updates
In the United States, RLX models sold during its production years were equipped with SH-AWD as standard. The exact trim names varied by model year, but all were based on the same AWD platform rather than offering a non-AWD option here. The RLX was discontinued after the 2020 model year, with Acura focusing its sedan lineup on the TLX going forward.
Used-car considerations
When shopping for a used RLX, check the SH-AWD system for any signs of wear or fault codes. Routine maintenance items—such as transmission service, differential lubrication, and wheel-end components—are important to keep AWD performing as intended. Verify service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection to ensure the system is functioning well.
Summary
The Acura RLX is an all-wheel-drive flagship sedan built around Acura’s SH-AWD system, designed to deliver traction and handling across weather and road conditions. Production ran from 2014 to 2020, after which Acura shifted focus to the TLX for its core sedan lineup. For buyers today, a used RLX with SH-AWD offers AWD performance and a refined luxury experience that remains a distinctive feature of the model.
Which is bigger, TLX or RLX?
Step inside the RLX, and you're surrounded by luxury and refinement. The first thing you'll notice is the space; the RLX is larger than the TLX, so you can carry a full load of adult passengers in style. While you ride, the generous legroom makes it possible for everyone to stretch out.
Is the Acura NSX AWD or RWD?
The 2021 Acura NSX is a hybrid all-wheel-drive supercar built around a twin-turbo V6 and three electric motors. It delivers consistent performance, pr...
Which Acura models are AWD?
Acura offers all-wheel-drive (AWD), most notably its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, on models including the RDX, MDX, TLX, and ADX. The high-performance NSX supercar also features AWD. Other Acura models, such as the ILX, are only available in front-wheel drive.
Current AWD models
- Acura ADX: The entry-level SUV is available with AWD, notes Harmony Acura.
- Acura RDX: The sport crossover offers SH-AWD, with certain packages providing a performance boost.
- Acura MDX: This three-row SUV is available with SH-AWD, which is standard on higher trim levels like the A-Spec and Advance.
- Acura TLX: The sport sedan is available with the SH-AWD system.
Past and other models
- Acura RLX: The now-discontinued luxury sedan had a sport hybrid SH-AWD version.
- Acura NSX: The supercar features a hybrid SH-AWD system.
Non-AWD models
- Acura ILX: This compact sedan is front-wheel-drive only.
Does the Acura RLX have AWD?
This setup gave the hybrid a torque vectoring all-wheel drive system with rear wheels strictly electrically powered. A 72-cell 1.3 kWh 66-pound lithium-ion battery pack was placed behind the rear seat.
