What does the SH-AWD mean on MDX?
SH-AWD stands for Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, Acura's torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system designed to improve traction, cornering grip, and stability.
What SH-AWD Means
SH-AWD is Acura’s branding for an advanced all-wheel-drive system that actively controls how power is distributed to the wheels. In the MDX, this means the system can adjust torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels to influence the vehicle’s rotation during cornering and its grip on slippery surfaces.
Torque-vectoring concept
Central to SH-AWD is torque vectoring: the ability to send more power to individual wheels to help the car rotate more precisely through corners. This is achieved with a rear differential and electronic controls that modulate how much torque reaches each wheel.
Key characteristics of SH-AWD in the MDX include the use of a rear multi-clutch differential and electronic control that collaborates with stability systems to deliver dynamic handling across a range of conditions.
Key characteristics of SH-AWD include:
- Active torque distribution between left and right rear wheels (torque vectoring)
- Variable front-to-rear torque split to optimize grip and stability
- Integration with Drive Mode Select and Vehicle Stability Assist
- Enhanced performance in corners and under acceleration on low-traction surfaces
In summary, SH-AWD is designed to enhance turning response, traction, and overall confidence behind the wheel by actively shaping how power is delivered to each wheel.
How SH-AWD Works in the MDX
In the MDX, SH-AWD uses a combination of electronic controls and a rear differential to modulate torque between the wheels. The system can send more torque to the rear axle and, importantly, to the outside rear wheel during cornering to help rotate the vehicle and reduce understeer. It also works in tandem with the front axle to balance grip when accelerating out of turns or driving on slippery surfaces. Drive modes (such as Sport and Snow) adjust how aggressively SH-AWD interacts with the stability control system to fit driving conditions.
The core components include:
- Rear differential with electronically controlled clutches for left-right torque vectoring
- Electronic control unit that coordinates torque distribution with vehicle dynamics data
- Integration with the MDX’s drive modes and stability systems
- Sensors tracking steering, throttle, wheel speed, yaw, and lateral motion
These components work together to deliver more precise cornering, improved traction, and a more confident feel in a variety of weather and road conditions.
Availability in the MDX Lineup
SH-AWD availability varies by generation and trim. In the latest MDX lineup, SH-AWD is commonly offered on most trims, and there is a dedicated Sport Hybrid SH-AWD variant that combines the gasoline engine with electric motors for enhanced torque vectoring and efficiency.
Typical configurations include:
- Non-hybrid MDX equipped with SH-AWD (available on multiple trims)
- MDX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (hybrid version with integrated torque-vectoring capability)
Note that exact availability depends on model year and market; always check the specific MDX build sheet or with a dealer for the precise drivetrain configuration on a given vehicle.
Benefits and Driving Experience
Drivers generally notice improved cornering stability, reduced understeer, and better grip in wet or snowy conditions thanks to torque-vectoring across the rear wheels. The system enhances dynamic handling without requiring the driver to take extra actions. However, as with most advanced AWD systems, there can be a trade-off in fuel efficiency and weight, though the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD variant aims to balance performance with efficiency.
Summary
SH-AWD, or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, is Acura’s torque-vectoring AWD technology implemented in the MDX to optimize torque delivery to individual wheels and axles for improved traction, handling, and stability. It is available in non-hybrid and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD forms, and it works in concert with drive modes and stability systems to tailor the driving experience to conditions and preferences.
Bottom line
For MDX buyers, SH-AWD represents a performance-oriented AWD approach that adds nuance to power delivery, offering enhanced cornering agility and confidence across a range of driving situations. Always verify the exact drivetrain option on the specific MDX model you’re considering, as availability can vary by year and trim.
Summary: SH-AWD means Super Handling All-Wheel Drive — Acura’s torque-vectoring AWD system used in the MDX to improve traction, cornering, and stability, available in both non-hybrid and Sport Hybrid configurations, with drive-mode integration for different conditions.
