The 2019 Acura RDX marked the beginning of its third generation, bringing with it a fresh design and enhanced performance. Among the trim levels offered, the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec stood out with its sporty aesthetics and dynamic driving experience. This trim catered to drivers seeking a more engaging SUV without sacrificing the luxury and practicality Acura is known for. Let’s delve into the specifications and features that define the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec, making it a compelling choice in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment.
Engine and Performance Specifications of the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
Under the hood, both the standard 2019 Acura RDX and the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec are powered by a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a robust 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. The engine features a 16-Valve, DOHC VTEC® valvetrain, direct fuel injection, and a Drive-by-Wire Throttle System, ensuring responsive and efficient power delivery. An Idle Stop feature further enhances fuel efficiency in city driving conditions. Both models also boast a ULEV-50 CARB emissions rating, reflecting Acura’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The recommended tune-up interval is an impressive 100k +/- Miles, highlighting the engine’s durability and low maintenance needs.
Drivetrain and Transmission
The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec is available in both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and Acura’s signature Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) configurations. Both drivetrains are paired with a smooth and responsive 10-Speed Automatic Transmission. For a more engaging driving experience, Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters are standard, allowing drivers to take manual control of gear changes. The gear ratios are identical across both FWD and SH-AWD models, with a 1st gear ratio of 5.25 and a 10th gear ratio of 0.52, optimized for both brisk acceleration and efficient highway cruising. The final drive ratio is 4.17.
Fuel Economy of the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for SUV buyers. The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec delivers competitive fuel economy figures for its class. The EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec FWD are 22 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec SH-AWD variant achieves 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. Acura recommends premium unleaded 91 octane fuel for optimal performance. The fuel tank capacity for both models is 17.1 U.S. gallons, providing a good driving range.
Chassis and Handling of the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec is engineered for a comfortable yet engaging driving experience.
Suspension and Damping
The chassis features a MacPherson Strut Front Suspension and a Multi-Link Rear Suspension, a combination that balances ride comfort and handling precision. Stabilizer bars, measuring 30 mm at the front and 23 mm at the rear, help to minimize body roll during cornering. Amplitude Reactive Dampers are standard, adjusting damping force based on road conditions for optimized ride quality. The Advance Package (not A-Spec specific, but mentioned in the original document for context) includes an Adaptive Damper System for further refined ride control. The Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offers 4 modes – Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ – allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s dynamics to different driving conditions and preferences. Agile Handling Assist® is also standard, enhancing cornering agility and stability.
Steering and Braking
The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec is equipped with Dual-Pinion, Variable-Ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS), providing precise and responsive steering feel. Ventilated front disc brakes (12.4 inches) and solid rear disc brakes (12.2 inches) offer confident stopping power. The steering ratio is 11.95, and the turning diameter (curb to curb) is 38.9 feet, providing good maneuverability in urban environments.
Wheels and Tires of the A-Spec
One of the distinctive features of the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec is its unique wheel and tire package. It comes with 20 x 8.0 Shark Gray Split 5-Spoke Aluminum-Alloy Wheels and 255/40 R20 High-Performance All-Season Tires. This upgrade from the standard 19-inch wheels not only enhances the A-Spec’s sporty stance but also contributes to improved handling and grip.
Dimensions and Weight of the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec maintains the same exterior and interior dimensions as the standard RDX, but with slight variations in curb weight due to the A-Spec specific features and potentially SH-AWD.
Exterior Dimensions
The exterior dimensions of the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec are as follows:
- Length: 186.8 inches
- Width: 74.8 inches
- Height: 65.7 inches
- Wheelbase: 108.3 inches
- Track (front/rear): 64.2 / 64.7 inches
- Ground Clearance (unladen): 8.2 inches
Interior Dimensions
Inside, the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec offers generous passenger and cargo space:
- Headroom (front/rear): 40 / 38 inches
- Legroom (front/rear): 42 / 38 inches
- Shoulder Room (front/rear): 60 / 57 inches
- Hiproom (front/rear): 55 / 50 inches
- EPA Passenger Volume: 104 cu ft
- Cargo Volume (Behind Second Row): 29.5 cu ft (SAE J1100 standard), 31.1 cu ft (SAE J1100 standard plus underfloor storage)
- Cargo Volume (Max, Behind First Row): 58.9 cu ft (SAE J1100 standard), 79.8 cu ft (SAE J1100 standard plus floor space between first and second seats and front seats moved forward)
Weight Specifications
The curb weight of the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec varies slightly based on drivetrain:
- Curb Weight (A-Spec FWD): 3821 lbs
- Curb Weight (A-Spec SH-AWD): 4015 lbs
The weight distribution is approximately 59/41 (front/rear) for FWD and 57/43 for SH-AWD, contributing to balanced handling.
Key Features of the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
Beyond performance specifications, the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec is loaded with features focusing on safety, convenience, and technology.
AcuraWatch™ Advanced Safety and Driver-Assistance Technology
The A-Spec includes AcuraWatch™, a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies:
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW) System
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBSTM)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) System
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow
- Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines
- Blind spot information (BSI) System (part of Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages)
- Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (part of Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages)
- Parking Sensors (front and rear) (part of Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages)
Audio and Connectivity Features
The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec boasts a premium audio and connectivity experience:
- True Touchpad Interface™ with 10.2-Inch HD Dual-Content Center Display
- 7-Inch Color Multi-Information Display (MID)
- Acura Navigation System with 3D View (part of Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages)
- AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ with Street and Freeway Conditions (part of Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages)
- Traffic Rerouting™ (part of Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages)
- Natural Language Voice Recognition
- AcuraLink® Connected Services
- Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ Integration
- Siri® Eyes Free
- SMS, MMS Text Message and Email Capability
- Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® Wireless Telephone Interface and Streaming Audio
- Acura/ELS Studio® 3D Premium Audio System with 16 Speakers (A-Spec and Advance Packages)
- Song By Voice® (part of Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages)
- HD Radio® and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
- USB Audio Interface and USB Charge Ports (including rear seat ports as part of Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages)
- Mobile Hotspot Capability
Interior Comfort and Convenience
The interior of the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec is designed for comfort and convenience:
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control with Humidity Control and Air Filtration
- GPS-Linked Climate Control (part of Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages)
- Keyless Access System with Acura Personalized Settings and Pushbutton Ignition
- Sport A-Spec® Seats with Perforated Milano Premium Leather and Ultrasuede®-Trimmed Interior with Contrast Stitching and Piping
- Heated and Ventilated Front Seats (A-Spec and Advance Packages)
- Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Flat-Folding Rear Seatback
- Tilt and Telescopic Leather-Wrapped A-Spec® Steering Wheel with Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls
- Ebony Headliner and Dark Brushed Aluminum Trim
- Floating Center Console with Pass-Through Storage
- Ambient Cabin Lighting
- Automatic Dimming Frameless Rearview Mirror
- Panoramic Roof with Tilt and Slide Function
- Height-Adjustable Power-Operated Tailgate
Exterior Features of the A-Spec
The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec exterior is distinguished by sporty styling cues:
- Jewel Eye® LED Headlights and LED-Illuminated Dragon Tail Taillights
- LED Fog Lights (A-Spec and Advance Packages)
- Acoustic Glass Windshield
- Heated Side Mirrors with Reverse Gear Tilt-Down
- Remote-Operated Windows and Moonroof-Open Function
- Capless Fuel Fill
2019 RDX A-Spec Color & Trim Options
The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec offers unique interior and exterior color combinations to enhance its sporty appeal. Interior is exclusively Milano Premium Leather and Ultrasuede®.
Exterior Colors (A-Spec):
- Majestic Black Pearl
- Modern Steel Metallic
- White Diamond Pearl
- Lunar Silver Metallic
- Performance Red Pearl
- Apex Blue Pearl
Interior Colors (A-Spec):
- Ebony
- Red
Interior Trim (A-Spec):
- Dark Brushed Aluminum
Conclusion
The 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec is a compelling sporty variant in the RDX lineup. It successfully blends Acura’s renowned luxury and reliability with a more dynamic driving experience and aggressive styling. With its potent turbocharged engine, available SH-AWD, unique A-Spec styling, and a plethora of technology and convenience features, the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a luxury compact SUV with a sporty edge. For those in the market for a pre-owned luxury SUV, the 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec offers a strong value proposition, combining performance, style, and Acura’s trusted reputation.
