Flash Drive

2019 Acura RDX

April 3, 2019 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 
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Model Tested: 2019 Acura RDX SH-AWD A-SPEC

The new for 2019 Acura RDX in A-Spec trim is a sporty SUV that’s also big on comfort and value.

Engine:2.0-liter turbocharged I-4, 272-horsepower 280 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 10-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 21-mpg city, 26-mpg highway, 23-mpg combined

Base Price: $45,600

As Tested: $46,995

Performance:

Car-like highway ride

Acura exclusive platform

The Acura A-Spec package has unique styling cues and black 20-inch alloy wheels.

Impressive turbocharger

Excellent acceleration

Dynamic mode dial: snow, comfort, sport, sport plus

20-inch A-SPEC alloy wheels

Extensive suite of safety features

OK fuel economy—our best was 23.6-mpg highway

Aggressive looking 4.0-inch dual exhaust tips

Front and rear parking sensors

The airy panoramic moonroof is standard.

Comfort:

Very comfy, supportive new design front seats

The A-Spec interior can be had in black or this wild red leather with UltraSuede inserts.

Excellent power lumbar support both front seats

3-temp heated and ventilated front seats

Soft headrests

Stretch-out front legroom

Excellent medium thick contoured and textured leather wheel

Very comprehensive auxiliary steering wheel controls

Sliding, soft, wide armrest over console bin

Flat floor for second row

The reasonably spacious rear seat comes in the same wild red leather.

Good second row knew room if front seats are up slightly

Soft, wide rear armrest with two cupholders

Utility:

Oversize panoramic moonroof greatly lightens interior

Medium size locking glovebox

Medium size console bin

Large open storage area under shifter

Small rear door bins with bottle notches

Hard plastic seatbacks with airline style storage pouches

Ample cargo space is available when the rear seats are folded down.

Large 10.2-inch infotainment screen

Power tailgate with ample clearance

No lift-over; flat floor

Lots of cargo space behind back seats

Slight slope to folded seats

Very big, wide, deep storage bin under cargo deck

WOW Factors:

Handsome A-Spec upgrades to styling and comfort

Strong value (especially in base trim)

There is great bonus storage under the cargo deck.

Superior LED lighting

Highly optioned without extra cost packages

Great panoramic moonroof

Large under floor storage bin

Whines:

Still not crazy about the unique button shifter system

New touchpad for infotainment wasn’t easy to use

Bottom Line:

The 2019 Acura RDX is a technically advanced crossover SUV that prioritizes comfort, performance and

The new infotainment control touchpad and odd gear selection buttons didn’t impress us.

safety. Interior space, comfort, and quality are excellent as is the overall engineering and driving experience.