Quick Take: 2020 Acura RDX
Acura’s RDX, redesigned for the 2019 model year, aims to capture more of the luxury compact SUV market, where the go-to vehicles have usually been the Lexus NX, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Audi Q5. Cartrast received some seat time with the SH-AWD A-Spec version of the RDX that had all-wheel-drive and sport-tuned suspension as well as sport-oriented exterior bits. The styling of the RDX with the A-Spec package has blacked-out accents and gray 20-inch wheels to provide a performance-oriented appearance.
All RDXs come with a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine generating 272 horsepower mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The interior was a very pleasant place to be, having red leather heated and cooled sport seats with 12-way power adjustment and a 16-speaker ELS Studio sound system. Those using the infotainment system control it via the True Touchpad Interface, similar to a mouse, to select options on the 10.2-inch infotainment screen. Furthermore, the all-wheel-drive system ensured the RDX stayed planted when driving around fast corners in the hills of Carmel Valley and the steering feel was good and direct.
The RDX we drove had an MSRP $46,795, a price tag well below its competitors with similar levels of equipment. Shoppers looking for a sharp-looking luxury compact SUV with a high level of equipment for the price will like the RDX and will definitely be comfortable behind the wheel. In the end, the RDX is a solid choice for luxury compact SUV customers and will feel relaxed in it throughout their ownership.
