Which Acura car is AWD?
Several current Acura models offer all-wheel drive (AWD), notably the MDX, RDX, TLX, and NSX. The ILX and Integra are front-wheel-drive. Below is a detailed look at how AWD appears across the lineup and what to expect when shopping.
Current Acura models with all-wheel drive
Below is a concise guide to the Acura models that provide AWD, with notes on the system each uses.
- MDX — SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) is available on the MDX, providing enhanced stability and traction across a three-row SUV platform.
- RDX — SH-AWD is offered on the RDX lineup, pairing a turbocharged engine with torque-vectoring AWD for improved grip in varied conditions.
- TLX — SH-AWD is available on many TLX trims; the high-performance TLX Type S uses AWD for enhanced acceleration and cornering.
- NSX — All-wheel drive is central to the NSX, implemented via a high-performance hybrid system (eAWD) that distributes power to both axles for optimized performance.
Note: Acura’s compact ILX and the Integra are front-wheel drive, while some older or discontinued models offered AWD in the past. For a specific year and trim, always check the official build configuration.
How SH-AWD and eAWD work (in brief)
SH-AWD adds torque vectoring and variable torque distribution to maximize stability and handling during cornering, rain, snow, or uneven pavement. The NSX uses an advanced electronic all-wheel-drive system (eAWD) that can send power to each axle via electric motors, optimizing grip and performance. In everyday driving, these systems aim to improve traction without sacrificing efficiency or comfort.
Discontinued or past AWD configurations (useful for used-car shopping)
Some older Acura models offered AWD but are no longer in current production. If you’re shopping used, these configurations may come up.
- RLX (discontinued after 2020) — Previously offered SH-AWD on certain trims with a V6 engine.
- Older TLX and MDX generations — AWD was available on various trims in earlier years; verify the exact drivetrain for the model year you’re considering.
When evaluating a used Acura for AWD, confirm the exact drivetrain technology (SH-AWD vs. eAWD) and which trims or packages include AWD for that year.
Summary
In the current Acura lineup, AWD is available on the MDX, RDX, TLX, and NSX, each using a different implementation of all-wheel drive. The ILX and Integra are front-wheel drive. For prospective buyers, identify the model and year, then verify the specific AWD system and trim-level configuration to ensure it matches your needs and climate conditions.
What year is the Acura AWD?
Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) is an automatic, all-wheel drive traction and handling system. The system was announced in April 2004, and was introduced in the North American market in the second generation 2005 model year Acura RL, and in Japan as the fourth generation Honda Legend.
Are all Acura MDX AWD?
No, not all Acura MDX models are all-wheel drive (AWD); some come standard with front-wheel drive (FWD). The specific drivetrain depends on the trim level and model year, but an advanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is often available as an option or standard on higher trims.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): The base trim level in some model years comes standard with FWD, and these models typically have lower upfront costs and better fuel economy.
- Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD): This is the advanced AWD system that is standard on many trims and available as an option on others. It provides better traction and handling, especially in slippery conditions.
- MDX Type S: High-performance Type S models come with SH-AWD as a standard feature.
What Acura models are AWD?
Most Acura models are available with all-wheel drive (AWD), including the TLX, RDX, MDX, and NSX, and the RLX Sport Hybrid. The only Acura model that does not offer an AWD option is the ILX. All of these models are equipped with Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) system, except for the ILX.
- Acura RDX: This compact SUV has SH-AWD® available on all trim levels.
- Acura TLX: This sport sedan is available with optional SH-AWD®.
- Acura MDX: The three-row SUV offers SH-AWD® on most, if not all, trims.
- Acura RLX Sport Hybrid: This model comes with an electrically powered, torque-vectoring SH-AWD® system.
- Acura NSX: This supercar features the SH-AWD® system.
- Acura ILX: This model is only available with front-wheel drive.
Which Acura is best in snow?
Acura MDX/TLX takes on snow and ice with SH-AWD Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) makes MDX and TLX all-weather traction superior. Coming off of a week of hazardous freezing rain and subsequent killer road conditions in Western Oregon, we explore Acura's answer to safe driving under torturous conditions.
