SH-AWD System: Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Acura MDX, 2008 Acura MDX, and 2007 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
When driving in a straight line, the front and rear wheels are traveling at the same speed. In a normal turn, the distance traveled by the front wheels is longer than that of the rear wheels. The SH-AWD system monitors the speed of the front wheels, and increases torque to the outside rear wheel proportionally. This improves stability and steering response, and on slippery surfaces it provides improved traction of the 4-wheel drive system.