How SH-AWD Works: Acura's Secret Handling Advantage
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How SH-AWD Works: Acura's Secret Handling Advantage
Most all-wheel drive systems exist simply to improve traction in rain and snow. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) does that too, but it goes much further by actively enhancing handling and cornering performance. Understanding how it works reveals why Acura vehicles drive differently than competitors.
Beyond Basic Traction
Traditional AWD systems distribute power between front and rear axles to prevent wheelspin. They're reactive systems that detect slippage and adjust power delivery accordingly. SH-AWD takes a fundamentally different approach by proactively managing torque distribution to improve handling dynamics, not just prevent slipping.
The system can send up to 70% of engine torque to the rear wheels during acceleration. But the real magic happens at the rear axle, where SH-AWD can independently vary power between the left and right rear wheels. This torque vectoring capability transforms how the vehicle behaves through corners.
Cornering Performance Enhancement
When you enter a corner, SH-AWD analyzes steering angle, vehicle speed, lateral acceleration, and yaw rate. It then sends more power to the outside rear wheel, effectively pulling the vehicle through the turn. This active torque vectoring reduces understeer (the tendency for front-wheel drive vehicles to push wide in corners) and creates more neutral, predictable handling.
The effect feels subtle but transformative. Your Acura rotates through corners more eagerly, responding precisely to steering inputs. The vehicle feels more balanced and composed, inspiring confidence to carry higher speeds through curves.
Real-World Benefits
On dry pavement, SH-AWD delivers sports car-like handling in SUVs and sedans. The MDX, despite weighing over 4,500 pounds, corners with surprising agility thanks to SH-AWD actively managing power distribution. The TLX Type S handles like a rear-wheel drive sports sedan while maintaining all-weather traction.
In rain or snow, SH-AWD provides superior traction by sending power to wheels with the most grip. But unlike basic AWD systems that simply prevent wheelspin, SH-AWD maintains handling precision even on slippery surfaces. You're not just getting traction. You're getting control.
Performance Without Compromise
Some performance all-wheel drive systems hurt fuel economy or add excessive weight. SH-AWD's engineering minimizes these compromises. The system adds minimal weight compared to competitors' performance AWD setups, and fuel economy remains competitive with front-wheel drive alternatives.
Why Competitors Can't Match It
BMW's xDrive, Audi's Quattro, and Mercedes' 4MATIC all offer capable all-wheel drive systems. None match SH-AWD's sophisticated torque vectoring at the rear axle. These competitor systems distribute power front-to-rear effectively but lack the left-to-right rear wheel control that makes SH-AWD special.
This technological advantage explains why Acura vehicles often out-handle competitors in comparison tests despite lower horsepower numbers or less aggressive styling.
Want to feel the SH-AWD difference yourself? Visit Jay Wolfe Acura to test drive any SH-AWD-equipped model and experience how this technology transforms handling, especially on your favorite curvy roads around Kansas City.
