Acura RDX 2007-2012 Drivetrain Specifications
Acura RDX 2007-2012

Acura RDX 2007-2012 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2007-2012 Acura RDX drivetrain system, including the SH-AWD system, turbocharged engine, transmission, and differential. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

2007-2012 Acura RDX Drivetrain Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the drivetrain of the 2007-2012 Acura RDX. It is designed to assist technicians, enthusiasts, and researchers in understanding the components, functionality, and performance characteristics of the vehicle's drivetrain system. Use the search functionality to quickly locate specific information, and navigate through the sections to explore detailed technical data.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search bar at the top of the document. Enter keywords related to the drivetrain component or specification you are looking for. Results will be highlighted for easy identification.

Navigate through the document by selecting sections from the table of contents. Each section provides detailed information on a specific aspect of the drivetrain. Use the subsections to drill down into technical details.

Key Specifications

Engine Type

2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4

Horsepower

240 @ 6000 rpm

Torque

260 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

Drivetrain

SH-AWD

Available Specifications

Drivetrain Overview

This section provides a general overview of the drivetrain system in the 2007-2012 Acura RDX, including the engine, transmission, and drivetrain type. It also includes key performance specifications and operational characteristics.

Engine Specifications
  • 2.3L DOHC i-VTEC Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine
  • 240 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
  • 260 lb-ft torque @ 4500 rpm
  • Turbocharger with intercooler
  • Dual balance shafts for smooth operation
Transmission
  • 5-Speed Automatic Transmission with Grade Logic Control
  • Available with paddle shifters (Sport Package)
  • Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency
  • Adaptive shift logic based on driving conditions
Drivetrain Type
  • Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
  • Front-wheel drive with torque transfer to rear wheels
  • Electronic controls for torque distribution
  • Weight distribution: 57% front, 43% rear

SH-AWD System

The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is a key feature of the 2007-2012 Acura RDX. This section details the components, functionality, and benefits of the SH-AWD system, including torque distribution and handling improvements.

SH-AWD Components
  • Electronic controls for torque distribution
  • Rear differential with electromagnetic coil
  • Planetary gear set for torque transfer
  • Clutch pack for rear axle engagement
  • Sensors for monitoring wheel speed, steering angle, and acceleration
Torque Distribution
  • Up to 70% of torque can be transferred to rear axle
  • Torque vectoring for improved cornering
  • Dynamic torque distribution based on driving conditions
  • Transfer of up to 100% of rear axle torque to individual wheels
Benefits
  • Enhanced stability and traction
  • Improved handling during cornering
  • Better acceleration on various surfaces
  • Reduced understeer in sporty driving

Performance and Fuel Economy

This section provides information on the performance capabilities and fuel economy of the 2007-2012 Acura RDX. It includes acceleration times, top speed, and EPA ratings for both front-wheel drive and SH-AWD models.

Acceleration
  • 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds (FWD)
  • 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds (SH-AWD)
  • Quarter mile time: 15.2 seconds @ 92 mph
  • Electronic throttle control for responsive acceleration
Fuel Economy
  • EPA ratings: 17 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, 19 mpg combined (FWD)
  • EPA ratings: 17 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, 18 mpg combined (SH-AWD)
  • Fuel tank capacity: 18.0 gallons
  • Recommended fuel: Premium unleaded gasoline

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
All-Wheel Drive
Configuration
SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)
Engine
2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain Layout
Front Engine, All-Wheel Drive
Platform
Acura Light Truck Platform

Dimensions

Wheelbase
103.5 in (263 cm)
Curb Weight
3573 lbs (1622 kg)
Ground Clearance
7.3 in (18.5 cm)
Approach Angle
18 degrees
Departure Angle
22 degrees
Suspension Travel Front
5.1 in (13 cm)
Suspension Travel Rear
4.7 in (12 cm)
Track
60.6 in (154 cm)

Materials

Driveshaft
High-strength steel
Axles
CV-style with steel construction
Differentials
Aluminum housing with steel internals
Propeller Shaft
High-strength steel

Features

Torque Vectoring
  • Active torque distribution
  • Up to 100% torque to rear axle
  • Torque vectoring between rear wheels
Active Differentials
  • Electronic rear differential
  • Active front differential
  • Clutch-based torque transfer
Transmission Features
  • Grade logic control
  • Sequential SportShift paddle shifters
  • Lock-up torque converter
Drivetrain Modes
  • Normal mode
  • Snow mode
  • Sport mode
Engine Features
  • i-VTEC variable valve timing
  • Dual-scroll turbocharger
  • Engine cold-start emissions system

Safety Features

Electronic Stability Control
  • Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
  • Traction control system
  • Motion adaptive steering
Traction Control
  • Driver-selectable traction modes
  • Wheel slip control
  • Throttle management integration
Multi-Angle Rearview Camera
  • Normal view
  • Wide view
  • Top-down view

Comfort Features

Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Low-speed follow capability
  • Stop-and-go functionality
  • Integrated with steering system
Heated Seats
  • Driver and front passenger heated seats
  • Dual-level heat settings
  • Integrated with climate control
Dual Zone Climate Control
  • Tri-zone automatic climate control
  • Humidity control
  • Air quality sensor
Noise insulation
  • Acoustic windshield glass
  • Thermal insulation
  • Active noise cancellation

Accessories

Roof Rails
  • Aluminum roof rails
  • Crossbar mounting points
  • Integrated tie-downs
Tow Package
  • Class II hitch receiver
  • Trailer wiring harness
  • Tow hitch cover
Cargo Management
  • Cargo tray
  • Net pockets
  • Underfloor storage

Maintenance

Service interval
Normal conditions: every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
Service Items
  • Oil change and filter replacement
  • Tire rotation and inspection
  • Brake pad wear inspection
  • Fluid level checks
  • Wiper blade replacement
  • Air filter inspection
Maintenance Notes
Increase service frequency under severe driving conditions

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 36000
Years: 3
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 70000
Years: 5
Coverage: Drivetrain components
Corrosion Perforation Warranty
Miles: 50000
Years: 5
Coverage: Sheet metal
Accessories Warranty
Miles: 18000
Years: 1
Coverage: Genuine accessories

Production Details

Manufacturer
Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc.
Manufacturing Process
  • Robotic welding
  • Laser cutting
  • Cathodic electrostatic painting
  • Assembly line testing
Quality Control
inspection Points: Dimensional checks, Material integrity tests, Functional testing
Certification: ISO 9001:2015
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycled materials usage
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing
  • Emissions reduction programs
Production Metrics
Annual Capacity: Over 50,000 units
Production Cycle: 11 hours per unit
Quality Rating: Top 10 in reliability

Service Information for Drivetrain Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

5,000 - 7,500
6
  • Oil change and filter replacement
  • Tire rotation and wear inspection
  • Brake pad thickness measurement
  • Fluid level checks (transmission, differential)
  • Driveshaft and axle boot inspection

Normal driving conditions apply. Increase frequency under severe conditions.

15,000 - 22,500
12
  • Transmission fluid replacement
  • Differential fluid replacement
  • Spark plug replacement
  • Air filter replacement
  • Suspension and steering inspection

Use synthetic fluids meeting Honda specifications.

30,000 - 45,000
24
  • Drive belt inspection and replacement
  • CV axle inspection
  • Electronic control module software update
  • Brake rotor resurfacing or replacement
  • Complete drivetrain system check

Major service interval. Inspect all drivetrain components for wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2007-2012 Acura RDX use?

The 2007-2012 Acura RDX features a Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. This system distributes torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels, enhancing cornering stability and traction.

Q2

What is the torque split in the SH-AWD system?

The SH-AWD system in the 2007-2012 Acura RDX can distribute torque between the front and rear axles in a range from 90:10 to 30:70 under normal driving conditions. During cornering, it can send up to 100% of the rear axle's torque to the outer rear wheel to improve handling.

Q3

What type of transmission is paired with the drivetrain?

The 2007-2012 Acura RDX is equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and Grade Logic Control. This transmission is designed to optimize performance and fuel efficiency while providing smooth shifting.

Q4

What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the SH-AWD system?

Acura recommends inspecting the SH-AWD system every 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. This includes checking the fluid levels, drive shafts, and differentials. The rear differential fluid should be replaced every 30,000 miles or as specified in the owner's manual.

Q5

Can the SH-AWD system be disabled?

No, the SH-AWD system in the 2007-2012 Acura RDX cannot be manually disabled. It operates automatically based on driving conditions and vehicle dynamics to provide optimal traction and stability.

Q6

What is the towing capacity of the 2007-2012 Acura RDX with SH-AWD?

The 2007-2012 Acura RDX with SH-AWD has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs when properly equipped. It is important to use a factory-approved towing package and follow all safety guidelines.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Acura RDX SH-AWD System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed technical overview of the SH-AWD system, including its operation, benefits, and maintenance requirements.

5-Speed Automatic Transmission Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide to servicing the 5-speed automatic transmission, including fluid specifications and troubleshooting tips.

SH-AWD Fluid Replacement Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the rear differential fluid in the SH-AWD system, including recommended fluid types and safety precautions.

Towing Guidelines for Acura RDX

Coming Soon

Official guidelines for towing with the Acura RDX, including weight limits, equipment recommendations, and safety tips.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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