I have pretty much decided to acquire a 2012 RL, preferably Advanced as soon as the right one becomes available with the intent to keep it 2, maybe 3, years when the RLXh should be a known quantity.
I'm curious if anyone has really pushed the ability of the SH-AWD on their RL. I had it on the TL but, the ride was a little harsh and jumpy. PLUS, I never really pushed it wet, dry or snow.
I am clueless about the test reports, such as the slalom and yes, I've driven the RL and the power is sufficient for my uses.
I prefer stealthy luxury

 

I've pushed it plenty hard. I've had my car sideways before. What is your question exactly?

 

So, despite sh-awd, it will break contact fairly easily? Or, did you intend to go sideways?

 

The harder you push, the more power it puts to that outside rear wheel. Eventually, it will cause oversteer. It was a cool, damp morning though. I have not done it on dry roads but I haven't tried either. I've done it a billion times in the snow though.

 

It's all about tire grip and suspension geometry. Most likely those two will give out before SH-AWD does in a situation.

 

I'll need to look at your opinion with a jaundiced eye since you're so inexperienced with Honda vehicles!

 

Honestly, I think if you have to ask, you probably are not likely to find the limits of the system. The stock suspension setup is designed to understeer at the limit. Add a Tein coilover kit with custom rear spring rates and I would imagine you could get the tail to wag pretty easily.

 

"It was a dark and stormy night...." Bwahahahaha

 

I have had the tires screeching a few times on dry u-turns and never broke traction. I have been able to do controlled power slides through empty intersection left turns, but I have also ended up more sideways than expected on a wet morning doing a right turn too fast.

In dry conditions, the body roll will scare you off before you reach the limits of SH-AWD. If you break loose on a wet road, a simple let off of the throttle will have you back on track in a jiffy. Of course, ALL of that depends on what condition your tires are in.


, Heavy.

 

 

Ah yes...tires.

I have never been particularly impressed with OE on any of our cars, even the MXMs
I have liked Michelin Sport A/S and Conti extreme A/S but, never got more than 30-35K miles

 

I've pushed it to the limit plenty of times. Hands down the SH-AWD is my favorite feature in this car. As stated previously, in dry conditions you shouldnt lose control unless youre going over 60 mph. I power slide on highway off ramps here in Florida with a breeze without breaking a sweat. Obviously tire condition and quality come into play with any over steer, but you'll get the hang of the cars limits after a few trys.

 

A dab of oppo catches it rather well and the christmas tree lights appear on the dash sometimes.

It's stupidly fun for a big barge.