The 2017 RDX has a 279-hp 3.5L V6 engine under the hood, rated at 252 lb-ft of torque. Despite the powerful specs, it remains remarkably efficient, earning an EPA-estimated 28 highway mpg and 20 city mpg on front-wheel drive models.**
The high fuel economy numbers of the 2017 RDX come from a variety of engineering achievements. In addition to a precision-engineered powertrain that gets the most out of every drop, Variable Cylinder Management monitors acceleration and can shut down up to 3 cylinders to conserve fuel while coasting.
Automatic transmissions bring improved fuel economies over traditional manual shifters, but some drivers miss the manual control. Enter the 6-speed Sequential SportShift Transmission, an automatic that features paddle shifters so you can change gears without even taking your hands off the wheel.
The RDX comes standard with front-wheel drive, but All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Control is available for drivers seeking added control. This system monitors the wheels’ traction and sends torque where it needs to be, engaging only as needed to deliver superior fuel economy than if it were always on.
A combination of strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension delivers one of the smoothest rides to the RDX thanks to isolated shocks and springs. A low center of gravity and the RDX’s Amplitude Reactive Dampers bring improved stability, even during cornering.
The heavily reinforced mounting points on the RDX work together with the standard Michelin Primacy MXM4 tires and the advanced suspension system for a smooth ride. Thinsulate lines areas like the inner fenders and spare tire area to reduce overall noise, too.
The RDX can detect when your key fob is near, and that means you no longer have to fumble for keys when you’re in a hurry. Just approach the crossover and open the door. After you’re buckled in, press the “start” button and hear the engine rev to life, keys still sitting in your pocket or purse.
Found on every RDX, the multi-view rear camera is there to deliver peace of mind when backing up. Just shift into reverse and the rear-mounted camera displays one of three views on the in-dash display. Press a button to switch views and make sure the path behind your crossover is clear before letting off the brake.
The front end of each new Acura model has something in common: a set of LED headlights designed to glimmer like jewels whether reflecting the LED light for a bright path ahead or reflecting sunlight during the day. Jewel Eye LED headlights are just one of the many features that set an Acura apart.
With a 60/40-split folding rear seat that expands the already spacious cargo area in seconds, the RDX is ready to move people, haul cargo, or do a little of both. With the seats all the way up, it has plenty of space for two three-piece luggage sets, making room for small furniture or hauling the kids off to college when the seats fold down.
The main storage area in the RDX center console holds nearly two dozen CD cases, giving you plenty of room for music or necessary accessories on the go. A tray above it is just the right size for a smartphone and has access to a power outlet. Add in a bin-shaped glovebox and a storage area for rear passengers, and you should have no trouble making room for your stuff in Acura’s crossover.
Standard dual-zone automatic climate control lets the driver and front passenger set their preferred temperature and airflow distribution. Rear passengers have access to adjustable vents for maximum comfort in any seat.
The RDX’s optional voice recognition technology accompanies its available navigation system, letting you take control of vehicle settings and media with just your voice. Press the steering wheel–mounted “Talk” button and the system will respond to one of more than 200 voice commands.
If the RDX had a button for every media and climate setting, it would feature a cluttered dash with dozens upon dozens of buttons. The On-Demand Multi-Use Display is a touchscreen with nine buttons that change their function as needed so your settings are only a few taps away.
Bluetooth HandsFreeLink lets you sync up to six devices, streaming audio, receiving SMS texts, and making hands-free phone calls. Features like Siri Eyes Free bring added functionality and put your favorite iPhone helper in the cabin of the RDX, too.
The ACE body structure shows that Acura is concerned about safety from the very frame of the RDX. If the RDX gets into an accident, the frame is engineered to actively redistribute energy away from passengers and crumple in just the right places to reduce the risk of injury.
This AcuraWatch Plus feature uses those same radar sensors as the Adaptive Cruise Control system to sense whether a frontal collision is likely. If it detects a potential frontal collision, this safety feature can automatically apply the brakes and slow or stop the RDX.
This optional safety and convenience feature uses radar to monitor the speed of vehicles around you. When engaged, Adaptive Cruise Control then adjusts your speed to follow surrounding vehicles so you don’t have to keep shifting cruising speeds.
Part of the AcuraWatch Plus package, Lane Keeping Assist monitors pavement markings and can sense when the RDX drifts from its lane. If you haven’t signaled and are leaving your lane, the system will issue a warning and then give the wheel a gentle nudge to keep you centered.
Radar detectors on the back of the RDX let this optional feature alert you to vehicles in the blind spot “alert zones.” An indicator lights up on the windshield pillar so you know if a vehicle is in the blind spot, and the pillar light flashes if you signal a lane change with a vehicle in the alert zone.
This standard safety feature monitors vehicle position specs and is designed to correct for oversteer or understeer. If it senses a loss of stability, the Vehicle Stability Assist system can adjust throttle position, torque, and brakes to help bring you back in control.