I am considering trading my 08 TL Navi for a 13 RDX Tech, but I am not 100% decided on FWD or AWD. I mostly want the AWD for handling benefits as I live in the South and do not see much snow or ice. Knowing that the new AWD system isn't the SH-AWD system, does the 13 RDX see any cornering performance benefit from the AWD system or does it stick to FWD for all situations other than straight line traction?

 

ATL304...If you don't see any snow, the FWD should suffice as this is not the SH-AWD as you have so correctly pointed out. It doesn't mean that you will not benefit from it in wet situations but I doubt you will see any significant enhanced driveability from it. It will also affect your fuel efficiency by chosing a lighter FWD versus AWD.

 

I'd stick with the FWD for better straight line performance and fuel efficiency thanks to less drivetrain losses and reduced vehicle weight. You won't notice much, if any, handling advantage by going with AWD. Also, in rare cases where there's ice or snow, a set of good winter tires would do the job just fine.

 

That's more or less what I figured...that the new AWD would probably not have significant dry lateral benefits.

Anyone have a differing opinion or information? This is my first SUV and potentially first AWD vehicle. I have always thought SUV and AWD should go together...

 

I'd have to agree with weather & iforyou. If you're not likely to encounter particularly adverse weather you really won't gain much other than weight (and a decal on the hatch) by adding AWD. A good set of tires and proper driving technique really make a big difference. Plus the FWD will likely save you between 1000-1500.

 

I was amazed how easily the FWD we drove lost traction while pulling out to make a right turn from a red light. Lit the front inside tire up. I mean laid down some rubber while going nowhere. The good news was there was no torque steer which I read was prevalent in the '12 FWD RDX.

I test drove an AWD and it felt much more stable under hard acceleration out of corners, from a stand still while turning and on steep inclines. I think I scared the salesman.

One plus is that the rear passenger floor hump is not any larger in the AWD than the FWD (I'm pretty sure).

We are in the triangle area of NC and had to drive up to Richmond VA to find an AWD version. We were told Acura was not shipping them very far south.

Wet weather traction has been superb with the AWD we've bought.

In my opinion, if you want confidence when accelerating in a non-straight line or gravel/wet, go with the AWD. What is that old Pirelli slogan? Power is nothing without control?

Good luck

 

Oh, and I read somewhere that although the new RDX shares the mechanicals of the AWD with the CR-V that the control system was 'tweaked' for a quicker transition of power to the rear to make it 'sportier'.

Take that for what it's worth (probably just marketing jargon).

 

I'm running into the same AWD supply issues here in Atlanta. In the end I think it is probably worth the wait...this cost difference isn't massive and there doesn't seem to be too great of a fuel economy penalty. Still on the fence but appreciate the input...definitely all are things to take into consideration...

 

ATL304....Glad that we were able to help. Good luck with your purchase and make sure you come back and see with the pics on hand Also, if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.