FWD vs. AWD
#41
^
We know that not all AWD systems are equal and discussing SH-AWD for the second generation RDX is a moot point, so let's discuss the RDX's FWD vs. the worthless AWD drivetrain.
We know that not all AWD systems are equal and discussing SH-AWD for the second generation RDX is a moot point, so let's discuss the RDX's FWD vs. the worthless AWD drivetrain.
![Smile](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
#42
#44
This is the best vid I know of.... (stalls at 8:40)
2016 Acura RDX takes on the Gold Mine Hill Off-Road Review - YouTube
2016 Acura RDX takes on the Gold Mine Hill Off-Road Review - YouTube
Sidenote: Really can't stand these clowns at TFL.
#45
This is anecdotal at best but to share my experience, I've driven through some relatively thick mud. When the front wheels start to slip, you can definitely feel the rear wheels kicking in. But hey, who am I to say. I hear AWD is overrated and worthless.
Attachment 102330
#46
I'm getting a lot more information about the AWD systems and pudding. Lol.
We need more videos. Great discussion guys.
We need more videos. Great discussion guys.
#47
Well they had traction control off and almost zero momentum. I'm not an expert or anything but that's probably something you don't want to do unless you're trying to get stuck. Not exactly real world driving.
This is anecdotal at best but to share my experience, I've driven through some relatively thick mud. When the front wheels start to slip, you can definitely feel the rear wheels kicking in. But hey, who am I to say. I hear AWD is overrated and worthless.
![](https://i.imgur.com/CBiXWLL.jpg)
This is anecdotal at best but to share my experience, I've driven through some relatively thick mud. When the front wheels start to slip, you can definitely feel the rear wheels kicking in. But hey, who am I to say. I hear AWD is overrated and worthless.
![](https://i.imgur.com/CBiXWLL.jpg)
I have lived in canada all my life and have drive through white out blizzards, you do not want TC on when stuck in snow or mud or anything, you want to turn it off and mash the throttle. Admittedly, I have always had vehicles with sophisticated AWD systems so this recipe always works for me. In my dad's santa fe, I took it one winter and got stuck (was hooning in a field) so tried tc on and couldn't get anywhere, turned it off, locked the awd and mashed the throttle, that worked well.
AWD is amazing, only when it is true AWD. Not part time partial crap that barely does anything. In the situation above, it should have sent power to the rear wheels where there was clearly grip, but it didn't.
#48
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Comfy (11-11-2015)
#49
Here's a CRV but I couldn't care less about the snow. I see like half an inch every year or two. Still surprised you would have no preference in driving an AWD or FWD in heavy rain.
Honda CR-V Премьерный теÑÑ‚-драйв (Владимир-МоÑква) 30.11.2012 - YouTube
Honda CR-V Премьерный теÑÑ‚-драйв (Владимир-МоÑква) 30.11.2012 - YouTube
A PROPER AWD SYSTEM VS PART TIME CRAP.
oh and had to include SHAWD for good measure
Last edited by RDX10; 11-08-2015 at 01:37 AM.
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Comfy (11-11-2015)
#50
Well they had traction control off and almost zero momentum. I'm not an expert or anything but that's probably something you don't want to do unless you're trying to get stuck. Not exactly real world driving.
This is anecdotal at best but to share my experience, I've driven through some relatively thick mud. When the front wheels start to slip, you can definitely feel the rear wheels kicking in. But hey, who am I to say. I hear AWD is overrated and worthless.
![](https://i.imgur.com/CBiXWLL.jpg)
This is anecdotal at best but to share my experience, I've driven through some relatively thick mud. When the front wheels start to slip, you can definitely feel the rear wheels kicking in. But hey, who am I to say. I hear AWD is overrated and worthless.
![](https://i.imgur.com/CBiXWLL.jpg)
1. Does AWD (generic) help with steering and stopping in inclement weather?
2. What are the different types of AWD?
3. How good is the RDX AWD?
The OP's initial comment was closest to the first discussion. Like in the above post, AWD (generic) will help with traction but will not help with steering and braking.
In rain, AWD (generic) will help reducing wheelspin when staring from stoplights and the like.
#52
There are three distinct discussions going on in this thread:
1. Does AWD (generic) help with steering and stopping in inclement weather?
2. What are the different types of AWD?
3. How good is the RDX AWD?
The OP's initial comment was closest to the first discussion. Like in the above post, AWD (generic) will help with traction but will not help with steering and braking.
In rain, AWD (generic) will help reducing wheelspin when staring from stoplights and the like.
1. Does AWD (generic) help with steering and stopping in inclement weather?
2. What are the different types of AWD?
3. How good is the RDX AWD?
The OP's initial comment was closest to the first discussion. Like in the above post, AWD (generic) will help with traction but will not help with steering and braking.
In rain, AWD (generic) will help reducing wheelspin when staring from stoplights and the like.
That could be some reason why the thread deviated like it did....sorry op!!
#53
I have to admit, I am a bit of an AWD fanboy. Can't lie there. I just get very interested and intrigued by the different AWD systems. Therefore when any thread comes up on AWD I get excited to get into it lol. I have no particular favorite though, used to love quattro, not so much anymore. I am partial, but like all sophisticated AWD systems.
That could be some reason why the thread deviated like it did....sorry op!!
That could be some reason why the thread deviated like it did....sorry op!!
#54
And agreed on your points!
#55
Registered Abuser of VTEC
In the case of the TLX and several other Acuras, the weight part is actually both a disadvantage and an advantage. The advantage side of it is that it actually helps with the F/R balance of the vehicle by putting extra mass at the rear.
#56
There are three distinct discussions going on in this thread:
1. Does AWD (generic) help with steering and stopping in inclement weather?
2. What are the different types of AWD?
3. How good is the RDX AWD?
The OP's initial comment was closest to the first discussion. Like in the above post, AWD (generic) will help with traction but will not help with steering and braking.
In rain, AWD (generic) will help reducing wheelspin when staring from stoplights and the like.
1. Does AWD (generic) help with steering and stopping in inclement weather?
2. What are the different types of AWD?
3. How good is the RDX AWD?
The OP's initial comment was closest to the first discussion. Like in the above post, AWD (generic) will help with traction but will not help with steering and braking.
In rain, AWD (generic) will help reducing wheelspin when staring from stoplights and the like.
What's funny is that Honda/Acura has spent what I'm sure is probably in the millions of dollars to research and develop their AWD Intelligent Control system. Then we have some members saying how it's worthless with nothing to disprove the system's abilities. Am I supposed to just blindly believe the few members? Thanks but I think I'll go with the billion dollar company on this one.
#57
BTW all those videos were great. The video in snow was awesome even though not from a third party.
Threads like this make Acurazine more interesting and informative (thanks to OP for starting that). Otherwise we would be engulfed with simply too much of romantic escapades of a particular boy. Lol.
Last edited by Comfy; 11-09-2015 at 12:19 AM.
#58
My initial post wasn't a question but rather a statement saying I'm glad I have AWD when driving in the rain. The second post mentioned how AWD is worthless except when a car accelerates from a standstill.
What's funny is that Honda/Acura has spent what I'm sure is probably in the millions of dollars to research and develop their AWD Intelligent Control system. Then we have some members saying how it's worthless with nothing to disprove the system's abilities. Am I supposed to just blindly believe the few members? Thanks but I think I'll go with the billion dollar company on this one.
What's funny is that Honda/Acura has spent what I'm sure is probably in the millions of dollars to research and develop their AWD Intelligent Control system. Then we have some members saying how it's worthless with nothing to disprove the system's abilities. Am I supposed to just blindly believe the few members? Thanks but I think I'll go with the billion dollar company on this one.
Regardless we can agree to disagree.
#59
I'm sorry. I was completely wrong. AWD will steer and brake you out of any problem.
Please make sure that your next of kin have the information on the class action on Trinity guardrails and you keep AAA on speed dial - roadside assistance will not pay to pull you out of a ditch - in the event that you survive the crash.
Please make sure that your next of kin have the information on the class action on Trinity guardrails and you keep AAA on speed dial - roadside assistance will not pay to pull you out of a ditch - in the event that you survive the crash.
#60
The "intelligent" refers to the marketing person that thought it up.
The AWD in the RDX is a FWD that "intelligently" decides when to send some power to the rear wheels. It doesn't do any of the SH-AWD stuff of other Acuras.
The RDX AWD system is a decent adaptation of an inexpensive FWD based system intended to be marketed to people who will never "really" need AWD. It will reduce front wheel spin in wet roads where the FWD version would "chirp" the tires. It will provide additional snow traction if used with the correct tires.
The "intelligence" of the system cannot overcome the laws of physics and make the car steer or brake better.
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Comfy (11-11-2015)
#61
It is funny how some people take marketing slogans like "intelligent" and assign magical qualities to them.
The "intelligent" refers to the marketing person that thought it up.
The AWD in the RDX is a FWD that "intelligently" decides when to send some power to the rear wheels. It doesn't do any of the SH-AWD stuff of other Acuras.
The RDX AWD system is a decent adaptation of an inexpensive FWD based system intended to be marketed to people who will never "really" need AWD. It will reduce front wheel spin in wet roads where the FWD version would "chirp" the tires. It will provide additional snow traction if used with the correct tires.
The "intelligence" of the system cannot overcome the laws of physics and make the car steer or brake better.
The "intelligent" refers to the marketing person that thought it up.
The AWD in the RDX is a FWD that "intelligently" decides when to send some power to the rear wheels. It doesn't do any of the SH-AWD stuff of other Acuras.
The RDX AWD system is a decent adaptation of an inexpensive FWD based system intended to be marketed to people who will never "really" need AWD. It will reduce front wheel spin in wet roads where the FWD version would "chirp" the tires. It will provide additional snow traction if used with the correct tires.
The "intelligence" of the system cannot overcome the laws of physics and make the car steer or brake better.
Regardless, if OP wants to enjoy a false sense of security, then he should feel free to go right ahead and do so. My posts are not intended to attack anyone, they are intended to try and shed light on the marketing scams these companies make.
#63
Are you asking for Acura rdx specific or any part time AWD system specific? I wasn't speaking Acura specific when I said that claim, I meant in general for these types of systems.
Last edited by RDX10; 11-09-2015 at 02:45 PM.
#64
New Ford Focus Anticipates Spin-Outs
Compact model predicts problems before they occur.
#65
Please don't misunderstand me. (I'm the second poster you've mentioned). Me too am glad to be driving an AWD RDX. I've experienced the stalling on snow while on upslope in FWD cars but my AWD cars haven't done it so far. That gives me confidence. I'm simply not convinced about any advantages with regards to braking, cornering, other driving manoeuvres. If there are actual benefits, then that's even better.
![Smile](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
Here's a cool video of someone trying to lose traction. Pretty cool to see the AWD in action and its limitations:
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Comfy (11-11-2015)
#66
#67
It is funny how some people take marketing slogans like "intelligent" and assign magical qualities to them.
The "intelligent" refers to the marketing person that thought it up.
The AWD in the RDX is a FWD that "intelligently" decides when to send some power to the rear wheels. It doesn't do any of the SH-AWD stuff of other Acuras.
The RDX AWD system is a decent adaptation of an inexpensive FWD based system intended to be marketed to people who will never "really" need AWD. It will reduce front wheel spin in wet roads where the FWD version would "chirp" the tires. It will provide additional snow traction if used with the correct tires.
The "intelligence" of the system cannot overcome the laws of physics and make the car steer or brake better.
The "intelligent" refers to the marketing person that thought it up.
The AWD in the RDX is a FWD that "intelligently" decides when to send some power to the rear wheels. It doesn't do any of the SH-AWD stuff of other Acuras.
The RDX AWD system is a decent adaptation of an inexpensive FWD based system intended to be marketed to people who will never "really" need AWD. It will reduce front wheel spin in wet roads where the FWD version would "chirp" the tires. It will provide additional snow traction if used with the correct tires.
The "intelligence" of the system cannot overcome the laws of physics and make the car steer or brake better.
#68
In addition to reacting to wheel slippage, the all wheel-drive system can also sense where slippage is likely to occur and send power where it’s needed
most. The result is a smooth and almost transparent transition between front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
most. The result is a smooth and almost transparent transition between front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
#69
This is the best vid I know of.... (stalls at 8:40)
2016 Acura RDX takes on the Gold Mine Hill Off-Road Review - YouTube
2016 Acura RDX takes on the Gold Mine Hill Off-Road Review - YouTube
#70
Well they had traction control off and almost zero momentum. I'm not an expert or anything but that's probably something you don't want to do unless you're trying to get stuck. Not exactly real world driving.
This is anecdotal at best but to share my experience, I've driven through some relatively thick mud. When the front wheels start to slip, you can definitely feel the rear wheels kicking in. But hey, who am I to say. I hear AWD is overrated and worthless.
![](https://i.imgur.com/CBiXWLL.jpg)
This is anecdotal at best but to share my experience, I've driven through some relatively thick mud. When the front wheels start to slip, you can definitely feel the rear wheels kicking in. But hey, who am I to say. I hear AWD is overrated and worthless.
![](https://i.imgur.com/CBiXWLL.jpg)
I just wanted the AWD so I can climb snow covered hills as I'm a big fan of skiing. I plan on driivng it to Mount Washington, or more Acurately... Wildcat in New Hampshire.
#71
Don't even give these guys any attention. I don't understand how they still get cars to review. I think the new jewel eye led's are stunning. Seriously, without them Acura's cars would be banished to snore ville.
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Comfy (11-11-2015)
#73
#74
#76
If you realize that all-season tires are really no-season tires then you are ahead of the game.
This doesn't mean that everybody should go out and buy winter tires - but - it does mean that you need to recognize that maybe you shouldn't venture out that day.
Don't forget that winter tires will not only keep you out of a ditch, but that they may help you avoid some idiot driving way too fast for conditions on improper tires.
There is a reason that some Canadian provinces and most of Europe have mandated winter (not all season) tires for this time of year.
If you do a European Delivery on Audi or Mercedes at this time of year, they will rent you a set of winter tires for the duration of your stay to keep you legal and safe.
#77
In Canada, where we have winters... you know... because we live in Igloos here, all 2016 RDX models are AWD. It might just be a marketing thing where we Canadians automatically think cars with AWD are better for winter.
But there is a false sense of security going on. I've seen many AWD SUVs in the ditch because drivers get too confident. I've seen a lot of them without winter tires too.
But there is a false sense of security going on. I've seen many AWD SUVs in the ditch because drivers get too confident. I've seen a lot of them without winter tires too.
#79
Not quite correct. All it takes is one freak snowfall to cause way more damage than the cost of winter tires. Remember the snow and ice that paralyzed Atlanta.
If you realize that all-season tires are really no-season tires then you are ahead of the game.
This doesn't mean that everybody should go out and buy winter tires - but - it does mean that you need to recognize that maybe you shouldn't venture out that day.
Don't forget that winter tires will not only keep you out of a ditch, but that they may help you avoid some idiot driving way too fast for conditions on improper tires.
There is a reason that some Canadian provinces and most of Europe have mandated winter (not all season) tires for this time of year.
If you do a European Delivery on Audi or Mercedes at this time of year, they will rent you a set of winter tires for the duration of your stay to keep you legal and safe.
If you realize that all-season tires are really no-season tires then you are ahead of the game.
This doesn't mean that everybody should go out and buy winter tires - but - it does mean that you need to recognize that maybe you shouldn't venture out that day.
Don't forget that winter tires will not only keep you out of a ditch, but that they may help you avoid some idiot driving way too fast for conditions on improper tires.
There is a reason that some Canadian provinces and most of Europe have mandated winter (not all season) tires for this time of year.
If you do a European Delivery on Audi or Mercedes at this time of year, they will rent you a set of winter tires for the duration of your stay to keep you legal and safe.
I want to note that this will be the first year for me in ever to have winter tires. I have always always had all season tires and never had issues at all thankfully. This time I am going to install a set of michelin x-ice 2 tires. Brand new and can't wait to see what it is like! But it just absolutely sucks, we have had no snow yet, nothing, literally can still see grass here, that is absurd!! I am worried about installing too early and having them wear stupid fast.
Last edited by RDX10; 11-13-2015 at 12:34 PM.
#80
In Canada, where we have winters... you know... because we live in Igloos here, all 2016 RDX models are AWD. It might just be a marketing thing where we Canadians automatically think cars with AWD are better for winter.
But there is a false sense of security going on. I've seen many AWD SUVs in the ditch because drivers get too confident. I've seen a lot of them without winter tires too.
But there is a false sense of security going on. I've seen many AWD SUVs in the ditch because drivers get too confident. I've seen a lot of them without winter tires too.
Most Audi cars sold in NA are AWD (quattro). More than half of all MBs sold outside of Florida/LA/GA are AWD (4Matic) and the RLX sold virtually nothing until they started with AWD.
AWD cars are a very tiny fraction of cars sold elsewhere.
We don't comprehend the importance of tires.