What Acura is all-wheel drive?
Across Acura’s current lineup, all-wheel drive is concentrated in the brand’s SUVs and performance sedans. The smaller cars ILX and Integra are front-wheel-drive, and the flagship RLX has been discontinued. Here is an up-to-date guide to which Acura models offer all-wheel drive today.
Current AWD-capable Acura models
Below is a concise list of the core models that provide all-wheel drive, using Acura’s SH-AWD technology or a hybrid AWD system. Availability can vary by trim and year, so it’s wise to check the latest specifications when shopping.
- MDX — All-wheel drive via SH-AWD, a cornerstone for Acura’s three-row SUV lineup.
- MDX Type S — High-performance variant with SH-AWD for enhanced handling and traction.
- RDX — Compact SUV with SH-AWD available on most trims, improving grip in various conditions.
- TLX — Sedan with SH-AWD available on AWD trims; enhances stability and torque delivery in corners.
- TLX Type S — Performance-focused variant with SH-AWD for sharper handling.
- NSX — Hybrid all-wheel drive; a flagship that uses AWD to optimize traction and acceleration.
Note: Acura’s ILX and Integra are front-wheel-drive in current offerings, and the RLX was discontinued after the 2020 model year. For buyers prioritizing AWD, the MDX, MDX Type S, RDX, TLX (and TLX Type S), and NSX are the models to consider today.
Understanding SH-AWD and its benefits
SH-AWD stands for Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, Acura’s torque-vectoring AWD system. It continuously monitors wheel slip, throttle input, steering angle, and other factors to vary torque between the front and rear axles and across the rear wheels, improving traction, cornering stability, and launch performance.
How it operates in practice
In everyday driving, SH-AWD can redirect torque to the rear wheels to stabilize through turns and boost grip when exiting corners. In low-traction conditions, it can favor wheels with the most grip, helping pull the vehicle forward more confidently.
Model-specific notes
MDX and TLX families rely on SH-AWD to deliver all-wheel traction, while NSX uses a hybrid AWD approach that complements its electrified powertrain. RDX also utilizes SH-AWD on most trims. Always verify the drivetrain on the exact trim, since there can be market or year-to-year variations.
How to verify AWD on your Acura
To confirm whether a particular model or trim has AWD, check the window sticker, the rear badge, or the official specifications on Acura’s website or dealership literature. Look for SH-AWD or AWD indicators in the drivetrain or features section, and note that some trims or markets may differ.
Summary
As of 2025, Acura’s all-wheel-drive lineup centers on the brand’s SUVs and high-performance sedans: MDX, MDX Type S, RDX, TLX, TLX Type S, and NSX, all tying into SH-AWD or hybrid AWD systems. The smallest models, ILX and Integra, remain front-wheel drive, and RLX has been discontinued. For buyers prioritizing AWD capability, these are the key models to consider, with SH-AWD at the core of Acura’s traction-forward driving experience.
