The Acura RDX is a luxury compact SUV. It has been in production since 2007, but the 2019 (third generation) version has a larger platform and a sweeping redesign in the form of a refreshed exterior look and a sophisticated interior with the latest in technology features and creature comforts.
Pricing
The 2019 RDX comes in a base model, which the company offers with three optional trim packages so customers can create a custom look. The base price starts at $37,300 and goes up from there to a maximum of $47,400, depending on the specific package and additional amenities chosen.
Exterior
The outside of an RDX is easy to customize with a choice of seven available colors. The car rides on standard 19-inch wheels, and it has a solid, responsive ride thanks to its new chassis. Consumer Reports notes the RDX has “precise steering” and a secure feeling on the road, even when zipping around tight corners. This vehicle features rounded dual exhaust pipes, LED headlights, and LED lights in the rear for maximum visibility.
Interior
This third-generation version provides both passengers and cargo with more room than ever before. This luxury crossover is designed to comfortably seat five passengers, and it has sound-absorbing materials and a noise-cancellation system throughout the cabin to eliminate background noise. It has a True Touchpad Interface to control its infotainment system. It also comes equipped with Apple CarPlay, which pairs with an iPhone to provide navigation assistance, make calls, receive text messages, and play audio. A leather-wrapped steering wheel, ambient lighting, and an electronic gear selector are notable amenities in the interior that add to its luxurious feel. Heated and ventilated leather seats are an optional amenity.
Performance
The Acura MDX is powered by a 2.0L, 16-valve, turbocharged engine that generates up to 272 HP. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. There are three driving modes that drivers can choose from to enhance their experience (Comfort, Snow, and Sport). Adding to this experience is the optional Super-Handling AWD, which is designed to give the vehicle extra stability and balance when going around corners. With this engine, the RDX gets an MPG rating of 22 in the city, 28 on the highway, and 24 combined.
Safety
The RDX does not skimp on safety. The SUV comes standard with AcuraWatch. The company’s safety package includes technology like lane keep assistance, adaptive cruise control, road departure avoidance, and collision avoidance. A panoramic backup camera makes it easy to maneuver in and out of tight spaces. There are also other available amenities that help make this vehicle safer to drive, including a rear-cross traffic alert sensor and an enhanced surrounding-view camera system that produces a 360-degree view.
Packages
In addition to the base amenities, there are three packages that drivers can get to create a fully customized RDX. The A-Spec Package adds interior and exterior detailing to create a bolder, sportier look with details like a rear diffuser and glossy black accents around the exterior. The package is available with either FWD or AWD. The Advance package adds more luxury to the interior with premium Milano leather seats that are heated and ventilated. The driver’s seat moves in 16 ways for precise comfort. The technology package upgrades the audio system, adds a navigation component to the infotainment system, and provides driver assistance with a 360-degree camera and blind-spot monitoring.
Ratings
This vehicle has generally received positive ratings. For all that it offers, this vehicle is ranked at the #2 spot in the category of “Luxury Compact SUVs” by US News & World Report, for example. It is also ranked #5 in the category of “Luxury SUVs with 2 Rows.” Overall, US News & World Report gives it a commendable 9.0 out of 10. Adding to the RDX’s appeal is that it can easily become a unique and personalized ride with the addition of several packages and a wealth of optional amenities.
This article is not endorsed by Acura or Honda.
