Flash Drive

2020 Acura RDX

July 6, 2020 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2020 Acura RDX SH-AWD A-SPEC

The 2020 Acura RDX A-Spec is handsomely styled inside and out. The A-Spec iteration includes 20-inch alloy wheels.

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: $45,800

As Tested: $46,795

Performance:

Athletic turbocharged four cylinder engine

Excellent AWD system with torque vectoring

Smooth 10-speed automatic transmission

The 2020 Acura RDX A-Spec is big on practicality. The power lift gate opens very high and there is no lift-over for the cargo deck.

A-Spec model pretty sporty for an SUV

Multiple drive modes

Sport and Sport+ most fun, but thirstier

Confident Snow mode for four seasons owners

Good feel/feedback to electric power steering

Strong fuel economy—our best was 25.1-mpg combined

Comfort:

Stretch-out legroom for driver and front passenger

Very good backseat legroom

The split, folding seats are easily lowered via releases by the rear hatch.

Adults fit fine in middle position

Attractive, luxurious interior design

Heated and ventilated front seats (3 temps)

Quite thick, very comfortable contoured and textured steering wheel

Ample steering wheel auxiliary controls

Good range tilt/telescopic steering column

Utility:

Power liftgate with great clearance

Wide opening

Front row space and comfort are excellent on all RDX models. This is the Advance trim level. The A-Spec trim features UltraSuede inserts.

Flat cargo floor

Slight slope to split folding rear seats

Large bonus storage under cargo deck

Great cargo space behind rear seats

Medium to small console bin

Large open tray below shifter

Small rear door bins with bottle notches

Easy access child safety seat anchors

Small touchpad for infotainment system control

Medium size locking glovebox

WOW Factors:

RDX rear seat room is generous even for adults in the middle position.

Fun to drive, athletic SUV

Crisp, handsome styling

Large panoramic moonroof

Power lumbar for both driver and passenger

Large, wide infotainment screen

Impressive ELS Studio 3D surround sound system

Whines:

Analog speedometer rather small

Owner’s manual not very user friendly

The 2020 Acura RDX A-Spec is an engaging and very comfortable vehicle on the open road and in the city.

Bottom Line:

The Acura RDX was completely redesigned for 2019, so the 2020 iteration is just more of the same, which is very good. Styling inside and out is among the best in the segment–an important pride of ownership factor. The 2020 Acura RDX A-Spec nails that sweet spot between luxury, sportiness, and practicality.