Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) near Tanque Verde, AZ

Why Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) is a Game-Changer for Drivers

When it comes to driving performance and safety, the drivetrain is a crucial factor, especially in challenging weather conditions or on winding roads. Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) system stands out as one of the most advanced and well-engineered all-wheel drive systems available in today’s automotive market. With a blend of cutting-edge technology, precision engineering, and unmatched driving experience, SH-AWD® ensures that Acura drivers enjoy enhanced control, stability, and confidence on the road. But how does it work, and how does it compare to traditional all-wheel-drive systems?

In this article, we’ll explore how SH-AWD® works, the benefits it provides, and why it’s a game-changer for those who seek a dynamic driving experience, particularly in Acura vehicles like the Acura RDX, Acura MDX, and Acura TLX.

What is Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®)?

Unlike conventional all-wheel-drive systems, which send power equally to the front and rear wheels, Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) takes things a step further by actively distributing torque between all four wheels, as well as between the left and right rear wheels. This system ensures that power is delivered where it’s most needed, providing superior traction, stability, and handling, particularly in low-traction conditions, such as wet, snowy, or icy roads.

SH-AWD® uses a rear differential that can send up to 70% of the power to the rear wheels and also precisely control torque between the left and right rear wheels, making it ideal for cornering and tight turns. This system provides drivers with more dynamic handling by preventing the vehicle from understeering (where the car goes straight instead of turning) and oversteering (where the car turns too sharply).

Acura’s SH-AWD® system is not just about getting you from point A to point B; it’s about providing a responsive, controlled, and engaging driving experience, whether you’re navigating city streets, winding mountain roads, or tackling inclement weather.

How Does SH-AWD® Enhance Driving Performance?

1. Improved Handling and Cornering One of the standout features of SH-AWD® is its ability to enhance cornering. Traditional all-wheel drive systems can sometimes struggle to provide balanced power distribution when cornering, but with SH-AWD®, torque is actively distributed to the rear wheels and even between the left and right rear wheels. This results in more precise cornering and less body roll, allowing the vehicle to hug the road and maintain a better line through turns.

   Whether you’re driving a performance sedan like the Acura TLX or a versatile SUV like the Acura RDX, SH-AWD® helps the car feel more planted and responsive, giving you the confidence to push the vehicle in dynamic driving conditions.

2. Enhanced Traction in All Conditions One of the biggest advantages of SH-AWD® is its ability to deliver exceptional traction in challenging driving conditions. Whether you’re driving in rain, snow, mud, or even on slick or gravel surfaces, SH-AWD® ensures that the wheels with the most grip get the most power, improving overall stability.

   While traditional all-wheel drive systems distribute power to all four wheels equally, SH-AWD® intelligently adjusts torque based on road conditions, giving you the optimal traction when you need it most. This means you can navigate wet roads, drive through snowstorms, or handle icy patches with more control and confidence.

3. Optimized Performance for Everyday Driving While SH-AWD® shines in challenging conditions, it also enhances the driving experience in everyday situations. By seamlessly adjusting the distribution of power, SH-AWD® ensures that power is directed efficiently, improving fuel efficiency during regular driving. This system also provides a more controlled, responsive driving feel, making it enjoyable whether you’re on a highway or in city traffic.

4. Tight Cornering and Increased Stability SH-AWD® doesn’t just manage power to improve traction; it also optimizes torque distribution to the rear wheels, which helps maintain stability during hard cornering. This feature, combined with Acura’s precise steering, results in sharper, more confident turns. The system reduces the chances of the vehicle skidding or losing traction when taking a curve at higher speeds, providing a level of stability that makes it easier to handle more dynamic driving situations.

How Does SH-AWD® Compare to Traditional All-Wheel Drive Systems?

While conventional all-wheel drive (AWD) systems are designed to send power to all four wheels, they typically operate in a fixed manner, distributing power evenly or with minimal adjustment. These systems are great for providing extra traction in slippery conditions, but they don’t offer the same level of agility or cornering control as SH-AWD®.

Standard AWD systems, like those found in many vehicles, send a fixed amount of power to both the front and rear axles, usually without adjusting the torque between individual wheels. This means that, while these systems can help a vehicle maintain traction, they don’t provide the same precision or dynamic handling that SH-AWD® offers. As a result, cornering and stability can suffer, especially during aggressive driving or on winding roads.

SH-AWD®, on the other hand, takes into account real-time driving conditions and adjusts torque dynamically, ensuring that every wheel gets the power it needs. This technology improves both traction and performance, making Acura’s SH-AWD® system a significant upgrade over conventional AWD systems.

SH-AWD® in Acura Models

Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is available across a variety of models, making it accessible whether you’re looking for a sedan, a sporty coupe, or an SUV.

• Acura TLX: For drivers who crave a sporty sedan, the Acura TLX with SH-AWD® delivers the ideal combination of power, control, and handling. Whether you're navigating through city streets or taking a spirited drive on winding roads, SH-AWD® ensures you have the best traction and cornering performance.

• Acura RDX: The Acura RDX, a compact luxury SUV, takes full advantage of SH-AWD® to deliver an agile, responsive driving experience. SH-AWD® enhances the RDX's capability in all weather conditions, ensuring that it’s ready for anything—from snowy commutes to weekend road trips.

• Acura MDX: As one of the largest SUVs in Acura’s lineup, the Acura MDX benefits from SH-AWD® to maintain stability and enhance driving dynamics, making it one of the most capable and enjoyable-to-drive three-row luxury SUVs.

• Acura NSX: For the performance enthusiast, the Acura NSX supercar offers SH-AWD® to combine hybrid power with mind-blowing performance and precise cornering. This advanced system enhances the NSX’s handling and makes it one of the most thrilling sports cars on the road.

Conclusion

Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) is a revolutionary technology that elevates the driving experience, offering exceptional performance, handling, and traction in all conditions. Whether you’re looking for a more dynamic and controlled driving experience in a sedan, SUV, or performance vehicle, SH-AWD® ensures that you can drive with confidence in any weather, road conditions, or driving scenario.

If you’re interested in experiencing the benefits of SH-AWD® firsthand, visit our dealership today to test drive an Acura RDX, TLX, or MDX and see how this advanced technology transforms your driving experience.