What is the difference between Acura AWD and SH-AWD?
In short, SH-AWD is Acura’s advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system that actively directs torque to individual wheels to improve cornering and stability, while a standard Acura AWD focuses on maximizing traction with a conventional front-to-rear power split and limited rear-wheel control.
Understanding Acura’s all-wheel-drive options
Acura offers more than one all-wheel-drive setup. The standard AWD system is designed to improve traction across wet, snowy, and slick surfaces by transferring torque between the front and rear axles as needed. SH-AWD, by contrast, adds a performance-oriented layer that can steer torque not just between front and rear axles but between the left and right wheels on the rear axle, enhancing handling and rotation during cornering.
What sets SH-AWD apart in engineering
SH-AWD uses a dedicated rear differential with electronically controlled clutches that can bias torque to the left or right rear wheel. This rear torque-vectoring capability works in concert with the front axle and vehicle dynamics controls to improve turn-in and stability during aggressive driving or when navigating challenging surfaces. Standard AWD focuses on maintaining traction and preventing wheelspin, but it does not actively steer torque between the rear wheels as part of its baseline operation.
Below is a quick, side-by-side look at the core differences that affect how the systems behave on the road:
- Torque distribution philosophy: standard AWD maintains a front-rear balance with adaptive but limited rear-wheel input; SH-AWD actively vectorizes torque between the left and right rear wheels for sharper cornering and rotation.
- Rear-wheel involvement: AWD generally uses the rear axle to provide extra traction when needed; SH-AWD uses the rear differential to modulate torque between each rear wheel, enhancing maneuverability.
- Handling in corners: AWD improves stability under acceleration on low-traction surfaces; SH-AWD improves response and grip during cornering, especially on dry and wet pavement.
- Drive modes and feel: SH-AWD often pairs with sport-oriented drive modes that emphasize torque vectoring and sharper throttle response; AWD focuses on predictable traction with traction-oriented modes (e.g., Snow, Wet).
- Availability and cost: SH-AWD is typically offered on higher trims or performance-oriented models and adds complexity and cost; standard AWD is more widely available and generally less expensive.
In practice, this means SH-AWD is more about handling performance and agile feel, while standard AWD is about broad, dependable traction. The difference becomes most noticeable when you push the vehicle through corners or drive aggressively on mixed surfaces.
Practical implications for drivers
For daily commuting and routine weather conditions, standard AWD provides strong, reliable traction with typically lower maintenance costs and weight. If you value sporty handling, especially in spirited driving or on twisty roads, SH-AWD offers a meaningful edge in turn-in response and stability by actively managing torque at the rear wheels.
Drive modes and how they interact
Many SH-AWD-equipped models include Sport or Sport+ modes that amplify torque-vectoring behavior and sharpen throttle response. In contrast, non-SH-AWD AWD systems rely on mode selections that optimize traction control, throttle response, and power delivery for weather and road conditions without rear-wheel torque vectoring.
It’s important to note that the exact behavior and available features can vary by model year and trim. If you’re choosing a vehicle, check the specific model’s description and test-drive to feel the difference in handling dynamics.
Which Acura models offer SH-AWD?
SH-AWD is offered on a number of Acura models as a premium or performance-oriented option. Availability can depend on the model year, trim level, and market. If you’re shopping, ask your dealer which trims include SH-AWD and whether it can be paired with other performance-focused features such as sport-tocused drive modes or steering enhancements.
Bottom line
SH-AWD delivers enhanced handling through rear torque vectoring and left-right rear-wheel control, making it appealing to drivers who prioritize cornering confidence and dynamic feel. Standard AWD emphasizes broad traction and reliability with simpler mechanics and typically lower cost. Your choice should reflect how you drive, the typical road conditions in your area, and your budget.
Summary
In summary, Acura’s standard AWD improves traction across a variety of conditions with a straightforward front-to-rear power split, while SH-AWD adds rear-wheel torque vectoring to improve cornering, stability, and overall driving excitement. For those who value performance and agile handling, SH-AWD provides a tangible upgrade; for most everyday driving and cost-conscious buyers, standard AWD remains a solid, capable choice.
What does SH mean on an Acura?
Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) is an automatic, all-wheel drive traction and handling system.
Is the Acura SH-AWD worth it?
The Benefits of Acura SH AWD
Vehicles equipped with SH-AWD are measurably quicker off the line, thanks to the system's ability to effectively transfer power and torque where it's needed most. Whether you're dealing with a slippery road surface or aiming to beat your acceleration record, SH-AWD has you covered.
Is SH-AWD the same as AWD?
All-wheel drive is designed to improve traction for your vehicle by diverting most power to the front wheels. Acura SH-AWD® takes this one step further by also diverting a portion of your vehicle's power to the rear wheels as well, which improves traction even further and maximizes your car's performance.
Which Acura MDX to stay away from?
What are the worst Acura MDX years? The oldest MDXs, built from 2001 to 2003, and models built from 2010 to 2014, seem to have the largest number of problems, according to outlets like CarComplaints.com and Dashboard Light.
