Abstract: A flush-mounted active grille shutter system includes a grille defining a plurality of airflow openings and including a plurality of bushings and a translatable blocking member translatable along guide slots defined by the plurality of bushings between an open position exposing the plurality of airflow openings and a closed position blocking the plurality of airflow openings. An actuator bracket carries an actuator configured to translate the translatable blocking member between the open position and the closed position. The actuator may be a rotary actuator. Vehicle grille assemblies and vehicles including the flush-mounted active grille shutter system are described.