Still, the four-pot’s output numbers aren’t better than those of a good 3.5-litre V6 engine, like the one in the 2010 TSX, and its engine noise is coarse. We imagine buyers of a $40,000 SUV would like a racier soundtrack. The turbo four should normally be more fuel-efficient than a bigger V6, and it’s the case here as our RDX tester is averaging 11.6 L/100 km.
The SH-AWD system is calibrated for dynamic driving, and is front-wheel biased. When the system detects wheel slippage, torque is then distributed to the rear wheels, and can also be thrown from left to right as needed. In short, the RDX is among the sportiest rides in the small SUV class.
Curiously, a two-wheel drive version is now available in the U.S., which eliminates part of the RDX’s performance-oriented handling.
The 2010 Acura RDX has a base price of $39,990, which is over $1,400 less than last year’s model. Our tester also includes the $3,000 Technology package that adds a navigation system, a rear view camera, a 10-speaker, 410-watt surround sound system.
Competition has always been tough for the RDX, and it’s not easier in 2010; BMW has added a stripper X3 to their line-up for $39,900, while the Mazda CX-7 GT AWD costs $38,990 and the Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited costs $38,495.
Among other all-wheel drive SUVs that cost a little over $40K, we’ll mention Audi Q5, Cadillac SRX, Infiniti EX35, Lincoln MKX, Mercedes-Benz GLK350, Subaru Tribeca and Volvo XC60, and we’re skipping over a few others.
Now, the RDX’s biggest problem is that it doesn’t clearly stand out from this very competent crowd. It seems to be a family issue, as the Acura brand itself still hasn’t become a household word; Honda’s luxury division might always be considered as, well, Honda’s luxury division, not a standalone premium brand.
Imagine being an adult and still getting asked for ID when stepping into a bar because your baby face still makes you look like a teenager.
So, Acura’s RDX doesn’t have anything inherently wrong with it. It’s quick, versatile and loaded with technological goodies. Its no-risk styling means it goes unnoticed on the road, which is both good and bad, depending on how fast you drive. Bottom line: RDX buyers won’t be disappointed.
photo:Philippe Champoux
 |
| The RDX is among the sportiest rides in the small SUV class. |
The SH-AWD system is calibrated for dynamic driving, and is front-wheel biased. When the system detects wheel slippage, torque is then distributed to the rear wheels, and can also be thrown from left to right as needed. In short, the RDX is among the sportiest rides in the small SUV class.
Curiously, a two-wheel drive version is now available in the U.S., which eliminates part of the RDX’s performance-oriented handling.
The 2010 Acura RDX has a base price of $39,990, which is over $1,400 less than last year’s model. Our tester also includes the $3,000 Technology package that adds a navigation system, a rear view camera, a 10-speaker, 410-watt surround sound system.
Competition has always been tough for the RDX, and it’s not easier in 2010; BMW has added a stripper X3 to their line-up for $39,900, while the Mazda CX-7 GT AWD costs $38,990 and the Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited costs $38,495.
Among other all-wheel drive SUVs that cost a little over $40K, we’ll mention Audi Q5, Cadillac SRX, Infiniti EX35, Lincoln MKX, Mercedes-Benz GLK350, Subaru Tribeca and Volvo XC60, and we’re skipping over a few others.
Now, the RDX’s biggest problem is that it doesn’t clearly stand out from this very competent crowd. It seems to be a family issue, as the Acura brand itself still hasn’t become a household word; Honda’s luxury division might always be considered as, well, Honda’s luxury division, not a standalone premium brand.
Imagine being an adult and still getting asked for ID when stepping into a bar because your baby face still makes you look like a teenager.
So, Acura’s RDX doesn’t have anything inherently wrong with it. It’s quick, versatile and loaded with technological goodies. Its no-risk styling means it goes unnoticed on the road, which is both good and bad, depending on how fast you drive. Bottom line: RDX buyers won’t be disappointed.
 |
| The 2010 Acura RDX has a base price of $39,990. |
photo:Philippe Champoux
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