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Which Acura models have AWD?

Acura, the luxury division of Honda, offers several models with all-wheel drive (AWD) capabilities. AWD provides enhanced traction and stability, making it a popular feature for drivers who need improved performance in various weather and road conditions.


Acura Models with AWD


The Acura models that currently offer AWD as an option or standard feature include:



  • Acura TLX: This midsize luxury sedan is available with Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which provides improved handling and traction.

  • Acura RDX: Acura's compact luxury SUV comes standard with the brand's SH-AWD system, delivering enhanced all-weather capability.

  • Acura MDX: Acura's midsize luxury SUV is offered with an available SH-AWD system, providing a balance of performance and all-weather confidence.

  • Acura RLX: Acura's flagship sedan is available with the brand's SH-AWD system, offering a premium driving experience with improved traction and stability.


Acura's SH-AWD system is a key feature that sets its AWD-equipped models apart. This advanced system can actively distribute power to the wheels that need it most, improving cornering, acceleration, and overall driving dynamics.


Benefits of Acura AWD


Acura's AWD systems offer several benefits to drivers, including:



  • Improved Traction: AWD provides enhanced traction in various road and weather conditions, such as snow, ice, or wet pavement, helping to maintain control and stability.

  • Enhanced Handling: Acura's SH-AWD system actively distributes power to the wheels that need it most, improving cornering and overall handling performance.

  • All-Weather Confidence: AWD-equipped Acura models offer a sense of security and confidence when driving in challenging weather conditions, making them a popular choice for drivers in areas with harsh winters or unpredictable weather.


Whether you're looking for a luxury sedan, SUV, or crossover, Acura offers a range of models with available or standard AWD capabilities to meet your driving needs.

Does Acura have a good AWD system?


Acura's SH-AWD system is quite good. I have had zero issues in the snow, though I don't live where we get a ton. My friends with Acura's in the north east say it's the best car they've had for bad weather.



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. 



Do all Acura RDX have all-wheel drive?


The Acura RDX is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with many newer models coming standard with AWD. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) is an available upgrade that can be added to any trim.
 

  • FWD vs. AWD: The base model of some RDX generations comes standard with FWD, but can be optioned with AWD. However, recent model years, such as the 2025 RDX, have made AWD the standard drivetrain for all trims. 
  • Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD): This is Acura's advanced AWD system that is available as an upgrade on every trim. SH-AWD is designed to improve performance and handling by distributing power not only between the front and rear wheels but also between the left and right rear wheels. 



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.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.