The Acura RDX is a compact crossover sport-utility built more for sporty performance than comfortable cruising. The 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine is turbocharged to produce 240 horsepower, and it isn't totally tame. The firm suspension is aimed at cornering, and doesn't make many compromises. The RDX has some desirable touches inside the cabin and quality engineering, but buyers should make sure the ride and throttle response are smooth enough for their daily driving.
NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Sam Moses test drove the Acura RDX in California and the Pacific Northwest.
(Source: New Cars Test Drive)
Model Line Overview
Model Lineup:
Acura RDX ($33,195); RDX Tech ($36,695)
Engines:
2.3-liter dohc turbocharged inline-4
Transmissions:
5-speed automatic
Saftey Equipment (standard):
dual stage frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags with rollover sensor; electronic stability control (VSA), ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, active front head restraints, tire pressure monitor
Saftey Equipment (optional):
Basic Warranty:
4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled In:
Marysville, Ohio
Specifications As Tested
Model Tested (MSRP):
Acura RDX Tech ($33,195)
Standard Equipment:
leather upholstery, air conditioning, power windows, power remote locks, cruise control, information display, fog lamps, power moonroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon HID headlights, heated mirrors, XM satellite radio
Options As Tested (MSRP):
Technology Package ($3500) with 10-speaker 410-watt sound system, navigation system with voice command, rearview camera, hands-free phone interface, AcuraLink Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic
Destination Charge:
670
Gas Guzzler Tax:
Price As Tested (MSRP):
37365
Layout:
all-wheel drive
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
240 @ 6000
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
260 @ 4500
Transmission:
5-speed automatic
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
17/22
Wheelbase:
104.3
Length/width/height:
180.7/73.6/65.2
Track, f/r:
61.9/62.6
Turning circle:
39.2
Seating capacity:
5
Head/hip/leg room, f:
38.7/54.4/41.8
Head/hip/leg room, m:
Head/hip/leg room, r:
38.3/53.0/37.7
Cargo volume:
60.6
Payload:
Towing capacity:
1500
Suspension, f:
independent, MacPherson strut
Suspension, r:
independent, multi-link
Ground clearance:
5.1
Curb weight:
3924
Tires:
P235/55R18
Brakes, f/r:
disc/disc with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist
Fuel capacity:
18.0
2008 Acura RDX consumer reviews:
overall rating
value
comfort
reliability
I've never owned an Acura before but I'm now a huge fan! Tech Package is a must especially if you like gadgets. Handsfree bluetooth works great. Very easy to to use and program. Nav system is also very easy to use, easy to use voice commands.
posted by Robert-Henry on May 17 2008
overall rating
value
comfort
reliability
An excellent fun car in every way. Turbo/performance. Bluetooth/voice commands. Reliability. Great value. Love my RDX. It has exceeded my expectations. Acura gives a great car for the money and very solid. Much more reliable than the BMW and performs better.
posted by P Teylan on May 12 2008
overall rating
value
comfort
reliability
Acceleration, handling, luxury interior, and easy to use blue tooth system. The fuel economy is respectable and premium gas is not a problem. The turbocharged engine is very good for performance in passing and acceleration, better than some V6s. The interior is very comfortable with the adjustable driver seat and roomy enough second row.
posted by Allan Raymond on Feb 08 2008
overall rating
value
comfort
reliability
It's fun to drive and has all the bells and whistles that I was looking for. It feels like they really have the driver in mind. I highly recommend this car! I'm so happy I bought it! Only a little better gas mileage and regular instead of premium gas would be suggested for it's improvement.
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