Which AWD feels more confident on I-684 near Bedford Hills, NY — 2026 Acura MDX SH-AWD or 2026 INFINITI QX60 AWD?

Curry Acura – Which AWD feels more confident on I-684 near Bedford Hills, NY — 2026 Acura MDX SH-AWD or 2026 INFINITI QX60 AWD?

Shoppers weighing Acura’s SH-AWD® in the MDX against the INFINITI QX60’s AWD are usually trying to answer one question: which system inspires more confidence on slick on-ramps, winding parkways, and the rolling grades around Bedford Hills, NY? It’s a smart place to focus, because while both SUVs deliver three-row flexibility and luxury, their AWD philosophies shape how they feel in the moments that matter—merging quickly, changing lanes on I-684, and carrying momentum through a curve without fuss.

SH-AWD® is a rear-biased, torque-vectoring system. In practical terms, that means it can send power not just fore and aft, but also side to side across the rear axle to help rotate the MDX through a bend. You’ll notice it most on a long, tightening on-ramp, where the steering feels planted and the SUV tracks cleanly without mid-corner corrections. Acura tunes the MDX around this capability: double-wishbone front suspension, an ultra-rigid chassis, and a 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters all work together to deliver stable, predictable control in the wet or dry. The QX60’s AWD adds valuable all-weather traction and multiple drive modes, and it’s a good partner for daily commutes. But because it lacks the same degree of rear-axle torque vectoring, its cornering feel is more traditional—secure, yet not as eager to help you arc smoothly through tighter bends.

How the systems behave when the weather turns

Westchester winters can throw you rain, slush, and those heavy, sticky snows that can cling to the crown of local roads. SH-AWD® helps here, too. By proactively routing more torque rearward when you accelerate and then sharing power between the rear wheels as grip varies, the MDX stays composed as conditions change underfoot. Pair SH-AWD® with the MDX’s Snow mode—one of up to seven modes on models like Type S Advance—and you get a drivetrain calibrated for gentle throttle, smart torque allocation, and relaxed steering to reduce wheelspin. The QX60’s Snow mode also dials in smoother response for winter, and it’s effective for routine storms. If you value added confidence when the lane ahead is a mix of clear patches and slick spots, SH-AWD® stands out for the subtle way it keeps the SUV pointed where you intend.

It’s not just the AWD software. The MDX Type S Advance introduces Adaptive Air Suspension with Lift mode, giving you extra ground clearance when you meet an unplowed driveway or frozen ruts at the end of a side street. That’s a small but meaningful advantage on unpredictable days. And Brembo® front brakes, paired with Electro-Servo brake tuning, deliver consistent pedal feel when slush and salt can make responses feel vague in other vehicles.

Power and response when merging

The MDX offers two personalities: a smooth 3.5-liter V-6 matched to a quick-shifting 10-speed, and a 3.0-liter turbo V-6 in the Type S Advance that elevates output significantly. The QX60 uses a VC-Turbo engine (up to 268 hp and 286 lb-ft) that balances efficiency and daily drivability. Both accelerate comfortably for commuting, but the MDX’s broader power spread—and the way SH-AWD® turns more of that power into forward momentum on corner exit—adds a layer of composure when you need to get up to speed quickly from a short merge lane or pass decisively on a two-lane stretch.

Ride and handling differences you can feel

Chassis decisions matter. The MDX’s double-wishbone front suspension keeps the tire planted over bumps and mid-corner ripples, maintaining steering accuracy on imperfect surfaces. The QX60’s conventional setup is tuned for comfort and feels solid over expansion joints and patched asphalt. Where you’ll notice the MDX difference is on sweeping curves and those rolling transitions from curve to straight—steering stays calm, and small corrections are all you need. That confidence feeds right back into how relaxed you feel in traffic or when hustling to make a green light before the next long cycle.

What about towing and versatility?

The QX60 can be configured to tow more when properly equipped, which may give it the edge if your top priority is pulling a heavier camper. The MDX, equipped with SH-AWD®, tows up to 5,000 pounds and pairs that capability with Lift mode on Type S Advance for season-extending access to trailheads or lakeside launches. Both offer flexible cargo solutions, and the MDX’s reversible smart-lid hidden storage is a thoughtful touch for wet boots or muddy gear after a hike.

• AWD design focus: The MDX’s SH-AWD® actively vectors torque across the rear axle; the QX60’s AWD emphasizes all-weather traction without rear-axle torque vectoring.
• Winter confidence: MDX Snow mode + SH-AWD® + available Lift mode work together for stability on mixed surfaces; QX60 Snow mode provides smooth, predictable traction.
• Handling character: MDX double-wishbone front suspension yields sharper, calmer steering feel; QX60 favors a comfort-first tune for everyday ease.
• Powertrain options: MDX offers a naturally aspirated V-6 or a turbo V-6 in Type S Advance; QX60 features a VC-Turbo four-cylinder tuned for balanced daily driving.

Of course, the best way to decide is to feel each system work in real time. Plan a route that includes I-684 on-ramps, a few sweeping bends, and a short stretch of uneven residential pavement. Switch between Normal and Snow (or Comfort and Sport) to learn how throttle, steering, and AWD mapping adjust to the moment. Note how each SUV responds as you roll back into the throttle mid-corner—does the nose stay settled, and does the SUV go where you expect? That sensation of poised control is where SH-AWD® often makes the most immediate impression.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is SH-AWD available across the MDX lineup?

Yes. SH-AWD® is available across the MDX lineup and is standard on the Type S Advance, where it’s calibrated for more dynamic responses.

Does the QX60 offer a similar torque-vectoring system?

The QX60’s AWD is designed for confident all-weather traction and multiple drive modes, but it does not provide the same rear-axle torque vectoring functionality as SH-AWD® in the MDX.

How many drive modes does each SUV offer?

The MDX offers multiple modes—Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport—and on Type S Advance, Sport+ plus Lift mode. The QX60 also provides several modes (including Snow and Sport) focused on tailoring throttle and transmission response for conditions.

When your decision centers on confident traction and composed handling, the MDX’s SH-AWD® advantage is tangible. You’ll feel it in the way the SUV settles into a curve and powers out cleanly without drama. Add in the MDX’s available Adaptive Air Suspension with Lift mode, Brembo® front brakes, and an interior that pairs Google built-in with an elegant 12.3-inch interface, and you have a three-row that makes busy weeks and relaxed weekends equally rewarding. If you want help choosing the right configuration, Curry Acura is here to walk you through the options and set up a route that mirrors your daily drive. We’re proudly serving Bedford Hills, Wappingers Falls, and Stamford, so you can evaluate the MDX where it matters—on the roads you drive every day.

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