Acura Going Small in the SUV Business with RD-X

The most logical choice would seem to be basing the upstart on Honda's extremely successful CR-V/Element, however,

Basing the new SUV on the brand's nimble TSX sedan makes a great deal of sense, at least initially. (Photo: Acura Canada)

which would save development costs and deliver a vehicle with a proven track record. The CR-V platform is also optimized for all-wheel drive, something the TSX doesn't offer, and its 2.4-liter engine, while not as powerful as the TSX's 2.4-liter unit, delivers similar torque at 162 lb-ft compared to 166 respectively, although it peaks out further down the rev range at 3,600 rpm compared to 4,500, which is more suitable to a larger, heavier SUV.

Also making things look more in the CR-V's favor is where it is produced. The TSX comes out of Japan, therefore it makes greater sense for the automaker to build a model that it

A production RD-X would need to be smaller than Acura's MDX, which means the Honda CR-V, or possibly the next generation version, will donate its overall architecture. (Photo: Acura Canada)

expects to sell more of in the U.S. than in any other jurisdiction, where it's being sold.

The CR-V and Element, on the other hand, come out of Ohio, exactly where Honda previously stated it would build a new small SUV for the Acura brand starting in 2006. Both the Marysville and East Liberty plants are flexible manufacturing facilities, made that way over a three year upgrade, allowing the automaker to add the Accord to the East Liberty plant next spring, to be built alongside the Civic and Element, and enabling the Marysville facility to produce more Acura TLs.