I have a 2013 RDX, but it's a Fwd. Recently I read a lot about how awd brings benefits in different driving condition, and I'm wondering if there is a way to convert the fwd RDX to its awd version. I googled a bit about it but most people are discussing about convert 100% fwd car to a awd, and it either costs a lot or is just impossible. Since RDX does have a Awd version, I'm wondering if making this convert is possible and how should I actually do this? Has anybody done this before? How's the result and how much did you invest? Many thanks!

 

Possible? Yes.
Easy? No.
Expensive? EXTREMELY.
Useful for handling? No.

In other words, it is possible to do it, but will be quite costly and will require extensive part changes. Your best bet is to sell your current RDX and pick up an AWD one. But the AWD system in the 2013+ RDX is only meant as an adverse weather aid. Not to aid handling like the 2012 and under SH-AWD system. So if you don't need AWD for bad weather, stick with FWD. faster and better fuel economy.

 

I see. It totally seems not worth it to make the investment. Quick question, how come the fwd is faster than the awd? Just because it's lighter? Thank you!

 

No it really doesn't make any sense assuming you can even get it to work like the factory intended. Not financially or practically. Now someone swapping in shawd for the normal awd system...that would be extremely cool. But not feasible.

They "dumbed down" the second generation RDX and unfortunately in the shuffle they removed SH-AWD, so the first generation valued sport and the second generation values comfort.

Yes because it is lighter and less parasitic drag from the drivetrain means more power makes it to the ground which equals faster. Now that is granted you don't spin out like crazy like I would imagine a fwd RDX would do. In Canada you cannot buy a fwd RDX or MDX so I don't know what it feels like.

 

The far better investment is upgrade your tires to summer brand for dry/wet and winter brand for cold/snow/slush driving. Having fwd with good-excellent tires is better than awd with average-crappy tires. We don't get a lot of snow in ABQ; but, we did get 12 inches of snow once over the X-mas holiday a few years back. My fwd TSX with new conti DWS tires accelerated, stopped, and handled so much better in the cold/snow/slush compared to my sh-awd RDX with OEM Michelin with 60-65% treadlife. If ice or constant temps below freezing for days/weeks at a time is a concern, snow tires are the best way to go compared to all season.

 

sell current car, buy AWD... it will be cheaper.... bit RDX is slip and grip so that is something to keep in mind...

 

I like AWD over FWD, you will notice improved handling in the rain. Also, it will be easier to resale with AWD.

 

rinse, ....wash...., rinse, ....wash.......