The all-new RDX reflects a new kind of luxury that values the resourceful. An engine that’s powerful yet efficient. Technology that optimizes your time. A design that puts excellence ahead of excess.
Performance
The powerful 3.5-liter i-VTEC® V-6 engine produces an impressive 273 horsepower and 251 lbs.-ft. of torque, while the refined Variable Cylinder Management (VCM II) system and low friction technology produce class-leading efficiency.
- The front-drive model delivers an efficient EPA Estimated Fuel Economy of 20 / 28 / 2327 city/highway/combined, while the AWD model does nearly as well with 19 / 27 / 22 highway.
- VCM II enables cylinders to be shut off at cruising speeds in order to increase highway mileage. Fuel efficiency is enhanced by lower-friction piston rings, the ability to run on lower viscosity oil and transmission fluid, and other friction-reducing features.
- i-VTEC®, which stands for Variable valve Timing and Electronic lift Control, enables the intake valves to open deeper and longer when the engine reaches approximately 4500 rpm to enhance airflow and allow the RDX to continue to build horsepower at levels where other engines may run out of steam.
- All-aluminum construction, a hollow camshaft, and other weight-saving measures keep the engine lighter for better handling.
- The Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system provides a precise balance of smooth and responsive operation by adjusting throttle sensitivity to varying driving conditions.
Variable Cylinder Management automatically changes the V-6 engine to run on six, four or three cylinders depending on driving conditions resulting in significantly improved highway mileage.
During startup, hard acceleration, hill climbing or when high output is required, the engine operates all six cylinders.At high-speed cruising or during moderate acceleration, two cylinders at opposite corners of the engine will switch off, enabling the engine to operate on four cylinders.At low-speed cruising on city streets, the engine will shut down one cylinder bank (which has three cylinders on one side of the “V”) and operate on the remaining three cylinders.The system monitors throttle position, vehicle speed, engine speed, gear selection and other factors to determine the correct cylinder activation for the operating conditions. The system also monitors catalytic-converter temperature to make sure it remains in the proper range to keep emissions low.
The 6-speed Sequential SportShift automatic with paddle shifters gives you the best of both worlds by providing the convenience of precise and intuitive automatic shifting as well as shift-for-yourself control.
- Set the transmission to “Drive” for smooth gear changes with an emphasis on fuel economy. Select “Sport” for quicker acceleration, as the transmission allows the engine to rev higher before upshifting.
- The steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters deliver quick, precise shifts at your fingertips.
- Tapping a paddle shifter while in “Drive” brings a quick gear change with automatic operation returning when reaching a steady speed. This allows you to make quick gear changes without changing in and out of manual mode.
- Using a paddle shifter in “Sport” puts the transmission into full manual mode, where you’ll have complete control during high-performance or hilly driving.
- For better climbing or increased downhill engine braking, Grade Logic Control instructs the transmission to hold a lower gear when encountering a steep uphill or downhill grade.
- Shift Hold Control keeps the transmission in its current (lower) gear ratio when the throttle is quickly released and the brakes are applied, such as entry into a tight curve. This leaves the chassis undisturbed by excessive shifting.
The RDX all-wheel drive system is designed to help maximize the use of available traction in both dry and slippery conditions, while minimizing system-wide friction and power loss to help optimize fuel efficiency.
- In normal cruising, the system operates as an efficient FWD vehicle with 100% of engine torque being directed to the front wheels.
- During moderate acceleration or when front wheel slip is detected in dry conditions, 25% of engine torque is transferred to the rear wheels.
- On a wet or slippery surface, wheel slippage will cause a reduction in engine output to the front wheels possibly to a point torque is distributed 50/50 between the front and rear wheels.
- Systemic efficiencies allow the AWD system to operate at only one mile per gallon below the front-wheel drive model.
The RDX front strut and rear multi-link suspension systems are tuned to provide a combination of secure handling and exceptional ride. The RDX is also the first Acura model equipped with uniquely designed shock absorbers known as Amplitude Reactive Dampers.
The new electronic power steering provides a smooth, linear transition between the generous power assist at low speeds and a firmer feel at higher speeds.
Since performance driving requires precision braking, the RDX features a firm pedal feel with linear response and is backed by 4-channel anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist systems.
The less flex there is in the body, the more precisely the suspension can be tuned for an optimal combination of handling and ride. Now, Acura has taken the impressive first-generation RDX body structure a step further.
While developing the second-generation RDX, one of our primary goals was to make the vehicle more enjoyable for both driver and passengers by reducing noise, vibration, and harshness.
Exterior
All RDX models are equipped with a rearview camera that automatically produces three available views of what’s behind the vehicle when “reverse” is engaged. The standard system has a 5-inch, full-color display above the center controls. Navigation system-equipped models use the 8” navigation screen.
RDX models with the Technology Package are equipped with Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights for the low beams.
The Keyless Access System with Smart Entry and pushbutton ignition allows you to walk up to the RDX, unlock the doors, have the car set your preferences and start the engine without ever having to take the key out of your pocket.
Press a button on the key fob, and the tailgate will automatically open for you. And when you’re finished loading or unloading, press the button again, and it will power down and latch.
The sophistication of the RDX interior begins with the plush feel of the seats, which are ergonomically designed to provide the support of a luxury sport sedan.
- Leather trim and breathable perforated leather on both front and rear seating surfaces create an impressive aura of modern luxury.
- Both front seats have dual-level heaters for cold days and are generously bolstered to keep you and your passenger secure during spirited driving.
- The perfect driving position is just a touch away with the 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat.
- The driver’s seat features two memory settings, which also recall side mirror positions.
- In addition to the usual height and angle settings, there’s a power lumbar adjustment in the driver’s seat to keep your back content during long journeys.
- The front passenger can also ride in personalized comfort with a 4-way adjustable power seat.
With room for three in the rear, the RDX is a premium five-passenger vehicle with soft, perforated leather for all.
- 60/40 split rear seatbacks allow for a variety of passenger/cargo combinations.
- Passengers enjoy plenty of leg and toe room with a flat floor (no hump) and generous space under the front seats.
- The center armrest folds down to reveal two built-in cup holders.
