Acura’s sport-derived RDX is a modestly priced near premium-level compact crossover SUV that’s powered by Acura’s only turbocharged engine. Although a front-wheel drive (FWD) arrangement is now available in the US, all Canadian-bound RDXs continue to arrive in all-wheel-drive (AWD) formats, and that’s not such a bad thing given the climate north of the 49th.
Visually refreshed
The RDX was introduced in 2007. Since then it received a series of small refinements but nothing that equates to a makeover; that should arrive within the next few years. Until then, the RDX will greet 2010 with subtly revised bumpers and fascia arrangements along with redesigned headlights and taillights.
Overall, the exaggerated lines of the RDX continue to project a sense of strength and sportiness while remaining true to Acura’s design language of late, and in particular, to the RDX’s bigger sibling – the MDX.
The RDX’s cabin has always been one of its attributes, and that continues for 2010 with the addition of improved ambient lighting and a reworked centre storage bin. Included is USB connectivity for the plethora of personal electronics we now carry with us like hi-tech security blankets.
Accommodating five
The RDX is not large enough for a third-row seat. The MDX will step forth for that purpose. Despite limiting attendance to five, the RDX supplies reasonable room with plenty of comfort for all. Well, perhaps the karma-challenged occupant on the rear centre-seat would characterize that as an overstatement.
My point though, is that in defiance of its “compact” rating, the RDX is spacious and capable of hauling both humans and human possessions with relative ease. Complementing the cabin’s inherent functionality is its architecture, which rates as one of the most appealing in this segment.
In addition to its visual appeal, the cabin’s execution utilizes components and materials that impart a sense and feel of quality consistent with a premium automobile- despite its 4-cylinder powerplant.
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| The exaggerated lines of the RDX continue to project a sense of strength and sportiness. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |
Visually refreshed
The RDX was introduced in 2007. Since then it received a series of small refinements but nothing that equates to a makeover; that should arrive within the next few years. Until then, the RDX will greet 2010 with subtly revised bumpers and fascia arrangements along with redesigned headlights and taillights.
Overall, the exaggerated lines of the RDX continue to project a sense of strength and sportiness while remaining true to Acura’s design language of late, and in particular, to the RDX’s bigger sibling – the MDX.
The RDX’s cabin has always been one of its attributes, and that continues for 2010 with the addition of improved ambient lighting and a reworked centre storage bin. Included is USB connectivity for the plethora of personal electronics we now carry with us like hi-tech security blankets.
Accommodating five
The RDX is not large enough for a third-row seat. The MDX will step forth for that purpose. Despite limiting attendance to five, the RDX supplies reasonable room with plenty of comfort for all. Well, perhaps the karma-challenged occupant on the rear centre-seat would characterize that as an overstatement.
My point though, is that in defiance of its “compact” rating, the RDX is spacious and capable of hauling both humans and human possessions with relative ease. Complementing the cabin’s inherent functionality is its architecture, which rates as one of the most appealing in this segment.
In addition to its visual appeal, the cabin’s execution utilizes components and materials that impart a sense and feel of quality consistent with a premium automobile- despite its 4-cylinder powerplant.
 |
| The RDX’s cabin has always been one of its attributes, and that continues for 2010. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |