AcuraZine - Acura Enthusiast Community

Acura TL 2009-2014: SH-AWD Information

The SH-AWD system is a terrific perk that comes with the fourth-generation Acura TL. It not only improves the driver’s safety when travelling through poor weather, but also provides a better overall driving experience.

By Jeffrey Bausch - May 13, 2016

This article applies to the Acura TL (2009-2014).

The fourth-generation Acura TL, announced in 2008 as a 2009 model, was the first line of TL model to offer SH-AWD. The upgraded handling system is a fantastic perk to have—it improves the car’s control in poor driving conditions, allows for greater flexibility in driving style, and leads to an upgraded driving experience. There’s a lot to learn about it if you’re otherwise unfamiliar. Read on to learn about the SH-AWD in the Acura TL.

What is SH-AWD?

“SH-AWD” stands for “super-handling all-wheel drive.” It has a default power split of 90% to the front and 10% to the back of the car. Similar to other Acura models that have this system (RDX, MDX, RL, etc.), both can power the rear wheels with different levels of engine torque.

Figure 1. Power is distributed in this system.

Benefits of SH-AWD

SH-AWD is considered a perk of driving a TL because it improves the vehicle’s traction; that is, it features excellent handling on dry pavement, and better roadway grip in wet and/or snowy conditions.

The TL that comes with the SH-AWD features a 3.7-liter, 305-horsepower V6 engine that is extremely quick. It also features an out-of-the-ordinary 5.7 inches of ground clearance and, because the car is specially designed to handle hazardous driving conditions, it also has heated outside mirrors and heated front seats.

Figure 2. SW-AWD offers better handling in winter driving conditions.

Trim Types

Introduced in late 2008 as a 2009 model, the fourth-generation Acura TL has two major trims – a front-wheel-drive version, and an upmarket SH-AWD version. Speaking to the latter option, it features a 3.7L 305 HP VTEC V6, transversely-mounted front engine model.

While the Acura RL did feature it, the SH-AWD TL does not have an acceleration device.

Figure 3. 4th Gen Acura TL.

Operating Parameters of SH-AWD

During normal cruising, up to 90% of the vehicle’s available torque can be transferred to the front wheels. When driven more aggressively, say, while taking a corner a bit more tightly or accelerating down an open roadway, up to 70% of the TL’s available torque can be shifted on over to the rear wheels to enhance the car’s dynamics.

Depending on the weather conditions, up to 100% of the car’s torque sent to the rear axle can be applied to either rear wheel.

Figure 4. This feature shifts depending on your driving style.

Featured Video: How SH-AWD Works

Related Discussions and Site