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Is the Acura TLX Type S front-wheel-drive?

The TLX Type S is not front-wheel-drive; it uses Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) on every model, delivering power to all four wheels for improved grip and performance.

As Acura's high-performance variant of the TLX, the Type S pairs a turbocharged V6 with a sport-tuned chassis and an AWD propulsion system designed to maximize traction in corners and on wet roads. While the base TLX lineup offers front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive in some trims, the Type S is AWD-only.

Drivetrain architecture and performance

Key specifications that define the Type S's drivetrain and why the FWD question comes up.

Drivetrain: Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) with torque vectoring to improve cornering and stability at speed.

Engine: 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 delivering about 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.

Transmission: 10-speed automatic, with no manual option for the Type S.

Performance modes: Sport, Sport+, and Track settings alter throttle response, transmission shifts, steering, and suspension; the AWD system adapts accordingly.

Drive configuration: AWD-only for the Type S; there is no front-wheel-drive variant of this trim.

In short, the Type S is engineered around AWD to maximize grip, acceleration grip from a standstill, and stability in high-performance driving, rather than a front-wheel-drive setup.

Takeaway

The Acura TLX Type S is AWD-only (SH-AWD); it is not front-wheel-drive.

Summary

Bottom line: The TLX Type S is not a front-wheel-drive car. It uses the SH-AWD system paired with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing about 355 hp, and a 10-speed automatic transmission. This AWD configuration is central to its performance character and differentiates it from the base TLX lineup, which offers front-wheel drive in non-Type S trims.

Is the Acura TLX FWD or AWD?

TLX Powertrains
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) provides seamless power transitions and exhilarating agility. Enjoy the rush of high-performance cornering and the all-weather advantages of an advanced all-wheel drive system.

Is TLX type s front-wheel drive?

All Type S models have Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which can send 70% of torque to the rear axle and as much as 100% of that torque to either rear wheel.

Is the Acura TLX type S RWD?

The Acura TLX Type S is not rear-wheel drive (RWD); it comes standard with a rear-biased Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. While the SH-AWD system can send a significant amount of power to the rear wheels to give it a rear-wheel drive-like feel, it is still an all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle, which provides enhanced traction and stability.

You can watch this video to learn more about the Acura TLX Type S's performance and handling: 58sTestDrivenTVYouTube · Oct 12, 2024
Key features of the Acura TLX Type S:

Engine: A 3.0-liter, turbocharged V6 engine that produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission: A 10-speed automatic transmission.
Drivetrain: Rear-biased Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).
Handling: Features like additional chassis bracing and an adaptive damper system are tuned to enhance performance and agility.

This video showcases the design and performance features of the Acura TLX Type S: 58sRaiti's RidesYouTube · Mar 30, 2025

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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.