Does the Acura TLX still feature all-wheel steering?

August 15th, 2017 by

2018 Acura TLX going around a curve rear view

Is the 2018 Acura TLX all-wheel drive?

When you look to innovators like Acura, you expect interesting things, especially with the TLX sedan, and with an all-new model for 2018, it’s only understandable that people are asking questions. Is the 2018 Acura TLX all-wheel drive? Is all-wheel steering still available? We have your answers and more.

 
2018 Acura TLX rear steering gear

Which TLX trim level have AWD for 2018?

Actually, for 2018 all trim levels have all-wheel drive available on the TLX. This includes the Standard Package, the Technology Package, the A-SPEC Package, and the Advance Package. This drivetrain configuration doesn’t come standard however, instead allowing customers to opt into it.

The all-wheel drive system that is available for the TLX is called SH-AWD, and that SH stands for Super Handling. The system automatically distributes power and torque from front to back, and it can even adjust from side to side in the rear wheels. This leads to increased handling, better traction on slippery roads, high-speed stability, and dynamic acceleration.

Agile Handling Assist, which comes standard on all TLX models, works in conjunction with SH-AWD to accurately pivot the TLX by managing braking force to individual wheels. The TLX shares its architecture with the same all-wheel drive system that comes standard in the Acura NSX. The SH-AWD system is only available with the V-6 engine option.

Is all-wheel steering available on the 2018 TLX?

Not only is all-wheel steering or AWS available on the TLX for 2018, but it comes standard with every trim, and this includes the Standard Package, the Technology Package, the A-SPEC Package, and the Advance Package.

By freeing up the rear wheels, the TLX can do some amazing things. When you brake, the rear wheels will point inwards to improve braking stability. When you turn a corner, the rear wheels will turn opposite the fronts to help you steer around the corner. Finally, when you are changing lanes at highway speeds, the rear wheels will turn the same way as the front to make for a more seamless and stable transition.

There is one caveat to the inclusion of all-wheel steering, and that’s when AWS isn’t available. If you opt for SH-AWD, then you will not get to take advantage of AWS. This makes perfect sense, as both systems are complex in their own right, and engineering them together is a complicated task.

Posted in Acura, Acura TLX, Technology