Why SH-AWD and ELS Studio 3D Make the 2026 Acura RDX a Smart Choice for Springfield, OH Drivers

Acura Columbus - Why SH-AWD and ELS Studio 3D Make the 2026 Acura RDX a Smart Choice for Springfield, OH Drivers

Drivers near Springfield, OH often ask two practical questions about the RDX. First, how does Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) help in real-world conditions? Second, is the available ELS Studio 3D® Premium Audio System worth it for everyday listening? Let’s unpack those two standout features so you can decide if they are right for your lifestyle.

SH-AWD® is a performance technology with daily benefits. Unlike a conventional all-wheel-drive setup focused on front-to-rear power distribution, SH-AWD® can actively send torque side to side across the rear axle. That torque vectoring does two things: it helps the RDX rotate more naturally in corners for a nimble, confident feel, and it enhances traction when roads turn slick. In short, you do not have to pick between fun and security—you get both. Pair SH-AWD® with the Integrated Dynamics System drive modes, and you can tailor steering effort and throttle response for your day, from Comfort to Sport and even Snow. The result is a crossover that feels planted on I-70, composed on backroads, and reassuring in winter weather.

Now, about that available ELS Studio 3D® Premium Audio System. Developed in collaboration with Grammy Award–winning producer Elliot Scheiner, it adds rich dimension and clarity through 16 speakers, including four in the headliner. The tuning is intentionally crafted to maintain detail at low volumes and deliver immersive energy when the playlist calls for it. If podcasts, audiobooks, or streaming are part of your routine, the soundstage makes voices clearer and music more lifelike without fatigue. Combined with standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, your favorite content looks sharp on the 10.2-inch HD display and sounds outstanding through the cabin.

To help you evaluate these features, here is a quick, structured look at how they translate to your drive:

• Cornering Confidence: SH-AWD® torque vectoring enhances turn-in and mid-corner stability.
• All-Weather Traction: Power is actively routed to maximize grip on wet or snowy roads.
• Personalized Feel: IDS modes let you dial in Comfort, Normal, Snow, or Sport responses.
• Concert-Grade Sound: ELS Studio 3D® immerses you with headliner and door-mounted speakers.
• Everyday Clarity: Tuning preserves detail at lower volumes for long drives or late nights.

For shoppers who want a deeper dive, consider a short evaluation drive that highlights both technologies. Ask to take a familiar loop with a mix of speeds and a few bends, then toggle IDS from Comfort to Sport. You will notice sharper steering feedback, livelier response, and a calmer body over undulations with the available Adaptive Dampers. Queue a favorite track, increase volume gradually, and sit in the second row for a minute—the ELS Studio 3D® system projects a stable, balanced stage to every seat, not just the front.

Acura Columbus makes it simple to compare packages that include SH-AWD® and ELS Studio 3D® so you can focus on what you will feel every day. Our knowledgeable team is serving Pickerington, Springfield, and Springboro with guided test drives, quick tech setups, and real-world tips for getting the most from your RDX.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Does SH-AWD® improve cornering even on dry pavement?

Yes. By actively distributing power side to side, SH-AWD® helps the RDX rotate more naturally through a turn, which can make the vehicle feel more agile and composed in everyday driving.

Is the ELS Studio 3D® Premium Audio System only for audiophiles?

No. While enthusiasts will appreciate the detail, most drivers notice clearer dialogue on podcasts and richer, more immersive soundtracks for daily commutes and road trips.

Do I need a specific package to get SH-AWD® and ELS Studio 3D® together?

SH-AWD® is available across the lineup, and the ELS Studio 3D® system comes on select packages. Our team can show you which configurations pair the two features so you can test both on the same drive.

Will IDS drive modes make a noticeable difference for me?

Most drivers feel the change right away. Comfort lightens steering and softens responses for relaxed trips, while Sport increases feedback and livens acceleration for a more engaging drive.

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