Acura RDX 2013-2018 Drivetrain Specifications
Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2013-2018 Acura RDX drivetrain system. Includes AWD system, transmission, differential, and drivetrain control module details.
Drivetrain Specifications Overview Specifications
This document provides a comprehensive overview of the drivetrain specifications for the 2013-2018 Acura RDX. It includes detailed information about the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and performance capabilities. Use this guide to understand the technical aspects of the vehicle's drivetrain system, compare different model years, and make informed decisions for maintenance or upgrades. Navigate through the sections to find specific details or use the quick reference section for key specifications.
How to Use
To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords such as 'engine,' 'transmission,' or 'horsepower.' Narrow down results by model year if needed.
Navigate through the sections by scrolling or using the table of contents. Each section is organized by major drivetrain components, with subsections providing detailed technical specifications. Refer to the quick reference section for at-a-glance key specifications.
Key Specifications
Engine Type
3.5L V6
Horsepower
273 HP @ 6,200 rpm
Torque
251 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
Transmission
6-speed automatic
Drivetrain Options
FWD / AWD
Available Specifications
Engine Specifications
This section details the engine specifications for the 2013-2018 Acura RDX, including engine type, displacement, horsepower, torque, and fuel economy. The RDX features a robust V6 engine designed for both performance and efficiency.
Engine Specifications
This section details the engine specifications for the 2013-2018 Acura RDX, including engine type, displacement, horsepower, torque, and fuel economy. The RDX features a robust V6 engine designed for both performance and efficiency.
Engine Overview
- 3.5-liter V6 engine (SOHC)
- 24-valve design with variable cylinder management
- Horsepower: 273 HP @ 6,200 rpm
- Torque: 251 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
- EPA-estimated fuel economy: 19 MPG city, 27 MPG highway (FWD)
- EPA-estimated fuel economy: 18 MPG city, 26 MPG highway (AWD)
Transmission and Drivetrain
This section covers the transmission and drivetrain specifications, including the type of transmission, drivetrain options, and key features. The RDX offers a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and advanced all-wheel drive.
Transmission and Drivetrain
This section covers the transmission and drivetrain specifications, including the type of transmission, drivetrain options, and key features. The RDX offers a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and advanced all-wheel drive.
Transmission Details
- 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift paddle shifters
- Grade Logic Control for improved uphill and downhill performance
- Optional manual shift mode for driver control
Drivetrain Options
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Intelligent Control System
- SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) for enhanced cornering and traction
- Automatic torque distribution between front and rear wheels
Performance and Capabilities
This section highlights the performance capabilities and features of the 2013-2018 Acura RDX, including acceleration, towing capacity, and handling. The RDX balances sporty performance with practical versatility.
Performance and Capabilities
This section highlights the performance capabilities and features of the 2013-2018 Acura RDX, including acceleration, towing capacity, and handling. The RDX balances sporty performance with practical versatility.
Acceleration and Performance
- 0-60 MPH acceleration in approximately 6.5 seconds (FWD)
- 0-60 MPH acceleration in approximately 6.6 seconds (AWD)
- Towing capacity up to 1,500 pounds
- Sport-tuned suspension for responsive handling
Search Specifications
Search by specification name, value, or description
Type to search through torque specifications. Results will appear below as you type.
Component Specifications
Overview
- Type
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Configuration
- SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)
- Engine
- 3.5L V6 SOHC VTEC
- Transmission
- 6-Speed Automatic with Sequential SportShift
- Drivetrain Layout
- Front-engine, All-Wheel Drive
- Torque Distribution
- Up to 100% rear bias, variable front/rear distribution
Dimensions
- Engine Displacement
- 3.5 liters (213 cubic inches)
- Max Torque
- 252 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
- Max Horsepower
- 273 horsepower @ 6200 rpm
- Axle Ratio
- 4.25:1
- Drivetrain Weight Distribution
- Front: 57%, Rear: 43%
- Ground Clearance
- 8.1 inches (205 mm)
Materials
- Driveshaft
- High-strength steel
- Differential Housing
- Aluminum alloy
- Axles
- High-tensile steel
- Transmission Case
- Cast aluminum alloy
- Engine Block
- Die-cast aluminum
Features
- Drivetrain Technologies
-
- SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)
- Torque vectoring
- Adaptive dampers (on Advance Package)
- Aggressive throttle mapping
- Hill start assist
- Transmission Features
-
- 6-Speed Automatic with paddle shifters
- Grade logic control
- Cooperative control between engine and transmission
- Econ mode for improved fuel efficiency
- Sport mode for enhanced performance
- Engine Features
-
- Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)
- Eco Assist system
- Direct ignition
- High-flow exhaust system
- Drive-by-wire throttle system
- System Features
-
- Electronic power steering
- Motion adaptive steering
- Integrated dynamics system
- Vehicle stability assist
- Traction control system
Safety Features
- Stability Control
-
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Electronic Differential System (EDS)
- Motion Adaptive Steering
- Collision Mitigation
-
- Brake Assist
- Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
- Multi-angle rearview camera
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Structural integrity
-
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure
- Reinforced side impact door beams
- Hot-stamped ultra-high-strength steel
- Energy-absorbing crumple zones
Comfort Features
- Noise Reduction
-
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Acoustic glass windshield
- Thermal acoustic foam windscreen
- Insulated rear wheel wells
- Ride Quality
-
- Amplitude Reactive Dampers
- Adaptive dampers (on Advance Package)
- Progressive rear suspension
- Dual-mode suspension (on Advance Package)
- Smooth Transition
-
- Smooth transition torque
- Linear power delivery
- Variable gear ratio steering
- Refined NVH characteristics
Accessories
- Towing Accessories
-
- Tow hitch kit
- Trailer wiring harness
- Load leveling suspension
- Tow hook cover
- Performance Accessories
-
- High-performance air filter
- Sport exhaust system
- Performance brake pads
- Lowering springs
- Convenience Accessories
-
- All-season floor mats
- Cargo area tray
- Rear seat cover
- Trunk organizer
Maintenance
- Service interval
-
- Miles: 5,000 - 7,500 miles, Items: Oil change,Tire rotation,Brake inspection,Fluid check,Air filter inspection, Note: Normal driving conditions
- Miles: 15,000 - 30,000 miles, Items: Spark plug replacement,Drive belt inspection,Transmission fluid change,Coolant flush,Battery test, Note: More extensive maintenance for higher mileage
- Miles: 60,000 - 105,000 miles, Items: Timing belt replacement,Water pump replacement,Fuel injector cleaning,Suspension inspection,Steering system check, Note: Major service interval
- Maintenance Notes
-
- Always use Honda Genuine Parts
- Follow recommended oil viscosity
- Inspect belts for wear
- Check tire pressure monthly
Warranty
- Basic Warranty
- Miles: 36,000 milesYears: 3 yearsCoverage: Bumper-to-bumper
- Powertrain Warranty
- Miles: 60,000 milesYears: 5 yearsCoverage: Engine, transmission, transaxle, and drivetrain
- Corrosion Warranty
- Miles: 60,000 milesYears: 5 yearsCoverage: Perforation
- Accessories Warranty
- Miles: 36,000 milesYears: 3 yearsCoverage: Genuine Acura accessories
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Honda of America Mfg., Inc.
- Assembly Location
- Marysville, Ohio, USA
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Robotic welding
- Laser cutting
- Friction stir welding
- High-strength steel stamping
- Aluminum casting
- Quality Control
- inspection: Full vehicle testingCertification: Honda-certified assemblyWarranty: Comprehensive coverageTesting: Performance and durability testing
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled materials
- Energy-efficient manufacturing
- Zero-waste policy
- Eco-friendly paints
- Low-VOC materials
- Production Metrics
- Annual Production: Over 40,000 unitsAssembly Time: Approx. 24 hours per unitQuality Rating: Top-tier reliabilityCustomer Satisfaction: High ratings
Service Information for Drivetrain Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to the drivetrain component
- Oil change with synthetic blend oil
- Tire rotation and balance check
- Brake pad inspection and rotor measurement
- Fluid level check (transmission, coolant, etc.)
- Air filter inspection and replacement if needed
Normal driving conditions - Every 5 months or 7,500 miles
- Spark plug replacement
- Drive belt inspection and tension check
- Transmission fluid drain and refill
- Coolant flush and replacement
- Battery terminals cleaning and testing
More extensive maintenance required for higher mileage vehicles
- Timing belt replacement
- Water pump replacement
- Fuel injector cleaning service
- Suspension and steering system inspection
- Driveshaft and axle inspection
Critical major service interval - Essential for maintaining drivetrain health
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What type of drivetrain does the 2013-2018 Acura RDX use?
What type of drivetrain does the 2013-2018 Acura RDX use?
The 2013-2018 Acura RDX is equipped with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) system as standard, with an optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system known as Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The SH-AWD system dynamically distributes torque between the front and rear wheels and can also vary torque between the left and right rear wheels for improved handling and stability.
Q2 What is the torque split in the SH-AWD system?
What is the torque split in the SH-AWD system?
The SH-AWD system in the 2013-2018 Acura RDX can distribute up to 70% of the engine's torque to the rear wheels and up to 100% of that rear torque to either the left or right rear wheel, depending on driving conditions. This enhances cornering performance and traction.
Q3 What type of transmission is paired with the drivetrain?
What type of transmission is paired with the drivetrain?
The 2013-2018 Acura RDX is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and Grade Logic Control. This transmission is designed to optimize gear shifts for performance and fuel efficiency.
Q4 What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the drivetrain?
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the drivetrain?
Acura recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the AWD system (if equipped), every 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. This includes checking the differential fluid, driveshaft, and transfer case for leaks or wear. Refer to the owner's manual for specific maintenance intervals.
Q5 Can I use aftermarket parts for drivetrain repairs?
Can I use aftermarket parts for drivetrain repairs?
Acura strongly recommends using genuine Acura parts for drivetrain repairs to ensure compatibility, performance, and longevity. Aftermarket parts may not meet Acura's specifications and could void the vehicle's warranty.
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 Owner's Manual
Coming SoonThe official owner's manual for the 2013-2018 Acura RDX, containing detailed information on drivetrain operation, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting tips.
SH-AWD System Overview
Coming SoonA technical guide explaining the functionality and benefits of Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, including torque distribution and performance enhancements.
Drivetrain Maintenance Checklist
Coming SoonA comprehensive checklist for maintaining the drivetrain components of the 2013-2018 Acura RDX, including fluid changes, inspections, and part replacements.
Genuine Acura Parts Catalog
Coming SoonAn online catalog of genuine Acura parts for the 2013-2018 RDX, ensuring proper fitment and performance for drivetrain repairs and replacements.
About the Author
Expert automotive knowledge and experience
Diagnostic
Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.
Repair
Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.
Additional Expertise
Documentation
Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.
Training
Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.
Certifications & Research
Certifications
- ASE Master Technician Certification
- Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
- Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
- Performance Tuning Expert
Research & Community
Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.
Legal Disclaimer
Important information about using this content
Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.
General Information
Warranty & Liability
The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.
We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.
Technical Information
- All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
- Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
- Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
- If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.