Look for a new Acura SUV in 2006

Acura RD-X Concept (Photo: Acura Canada)

Inside, the cockpit is adorned with white and tangerine leather and white suede, although so much coloured skin probably won't make it to production. The cargo bay is modular and looks like they made the most out of interior space back there. There is Acura's navigation system on an LCD screen in the middle of the dashboard, and a dial just below controls audio, climate control and other functions, just like in the RL. If you're used to driving a computer mouse, this dial should feel familiar.

The RD-X is equipped with AcuraLink, the company's satellite communication system, which lets you view traffic information, access the Internet, download music onto an integrated hard drive and contact Acura customer service. By the way, that hard drive is visible through the centre console and spins before our eyes. It also sports a nine-speaker

Acura RD-X Concept (Photo: Acura Canada)

DVD-audio system similar to the TL sedan's is featured in the show car, and might just well be offered as an option once the RDX rolls off the line. Also, a custom-made briefcase slides neatly in the centre armrest, between the two front seats. The narrow moonroof expands from the base of the windshield all the way to the rear seats.

At 4,610 mm (181.5 inches) long, it's exactly the same size as a newly-introduced Mazda5, and slightly longer than Honda's CR-V (4,595 mm).

No word on what engine will be stuffed under the hood, though. Well, we've got a few choices: the 197-hp 2.0-litre inline-4 engine that will power the upcoming Civic Si (and maybe the next EL, which could be renamed CSX), the 205-hp 2.4-litre inline-4 that powers the TSX, or the Honda Accord's 244-hp 3.0-litre V6. But putting that 6-cylinder in the engine bay of the RDX will surely mean that it will cost well over $35,000

Acura RD-X Concept (Photo: Acura Canada)

and that could be bad news for growing families with an average income. We'll hope a four-cylinder and six-speed manual will be available, as well as a 5-speed automatic with manual mode.

Since Acura has announced at Detroit that the RDX will be a 2006 model, I'll bet that it won't be launched until after Christmas since the new models are coming out right now, and the RDX isn't one of them. As for pricing, it has to be more expensive than a CR-V, but less than a Pilot or a MDX. I suppose that the base price will check in at about $32,000.