What is the drivetrain of the TLX?
The TLX offers two main drivetrain configurations: front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) as an option; the high-performance TLX Type S uses all-wheel drive.
The TLX lineup has evolved across model years, but two core concepts remain: FWD provides efficiency and simplicity, while SH-AWD adds traction and handling capabilities. The Type S variant emphasizes performance and typically relies on AWD for enhanced grip and stability.
Drivetrain options explained
The following overview highlights the two primary drivetrain configurations available for the TLX and what each brings to the driving experience.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): The standard layout on many TLX trims, offering straightforward handling, good fuel efficiency, and lower complexity/cost.
- Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD): Acura’s available all-wheel-drive system that redistributes torque between the front and rear axles and can bias power between the left and right rear wheels for enhanced traction and handling, especially in variable conditions.
In practice, you typically choose between base FWD and SH-AWD depending on your trim level, options, and model year. SH-AWD is most commonly associated with higher trims and performance-oriented configurations, while the base setup remains FWD in many standard packages.
How SH-AWD works
SH-AWD is designed to improve grip, stability, and cornering confidence by actively distributing torque. The system continually evaluates road conditions, throttle input, and steering angle to adjust power to the wheels.
- Torque vectoring at the rear wheels to improve corner entry and exit by slightly sending power to the outside rear wheel when turning.
- Dynamic front-to-rear torque distribution to optimize traction during acceleration and when road surfaces change grip levels.
- Integration with the TLX’s suspension and steering to provide sharper, more confident handling without sacrificing everyday usability.
Overall, SH-AWD aims to deliver a more confidence-inspiring drive by managing power delivery across the axle and across the vehicle’s width, which can translate to better acceleration, braking stability, and cornering grip in wet or slippery conditions.
Model-by-model drivetrain overview
As of the latest generations, the TLX lineup typically presents FWD as the baseline option with SH-AWD available on most trims or as standard on higher-performance variants. The TLX Type S, in particular, is associated with AWD for enhanced performance characteristics.
- Base TLX and mid-range trims: FWD is commonly offered as the standard configuration; SH-AWD is available as an option or standard on certain packages depending on model year and trim.
- TLX A-Spec and related trims: SH-AWD is frequently offered as an option or standard on higher-spec versions, depending on the year and package choices.
- TLX Type S: The high-performance variant uses AWD (SH-AWD) to maximize traction, power delivery, and handling capabilities.
Because drivetrain availability can change with model-year updates and regional specifications, consumers should verify the exact configuration on the official Acura spec sheet for the year and trim they’re considering.
Summary
The TLX provides two primary drivetrain configurations: FWD as the standard setup and SH-AWD as an available option, with the high-performance TLX Type S delivering AWD as a core feature. SH-AWD adds torque-vectoring capabilities and adaptive power distribution to enhance traction, stability, and cornering performance across varying driving conditions. For buyers, the choice typically hinges on desired handling characteristics, climate considerations, and the specific trim or package year.
