The 2022 Acura RDX is a compelling choice in the luxury SUV market, and for those seeking a bolder, more dynamic driving experience, the A-Spec Package elevates it to another level. This trim isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a carefully curated blend of sporty design enhancements and performance-inspired features that amplify the RDX’s inherent capabilities. Let’s delve into the specifics that make the 2022 Acura Rdx A-spec Package a standout option for discerning drivers.
Potent Performance Under the Hood
At the heart of the 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec lies a robust 2.0-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This powerplant delivers an impressive 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque, readily available between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. The mono-scroll turbocharger ensures responsive power delivery across the rev range, making for spirited acceleration and confident highway merging. This engine features a 16-Valve, DOHC VTEC® valvetrain, direct fuel injection, and a Drive-by-Wire Throttle System, all contributing to its refined performance and efficiency. It’s also designed with a 9.8:1 compression ratio and meets ULEV-50 CARB emissions ratings, balancing power with environmental consciousness. Acura recommends premium unleaded 91 octane fuel to maximize performance.
Alt text: Close-up view of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine in the 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec, showcasing its performance-oriented design.
Dynamic Drivetrain and Handling
The 2022 RDX A-Spec package is available with Acura’s renowned SH-AWD® (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™) system, providing exceptional grip and control in various driving conditions. Power is delivered through a smooth and responsive 10-speed automatic transmission, complete with Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters mounted on the steering wheel for a more engaging driving experience. The gear ratios are finely tuned, ranging from a 5.25 first gear for strong off-the-line acceleration to a 0.52 tenth gear for efficient highway cruising. The final drive ratio is 4.17, optimizing the balance between acceleration and fuel economy.
The chassis of the RDX A-Spec is engineered for agile handling. It features MacPherson Strut Front Suspension and a Multi-Link Rear Suspension, along with front and rear stabilizer bars (30mm front, 23mm rear) for reduced body roll in corners. Amplitude Reactive Dampers further enhance ride comfort and handling prowess. The Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS) with a variable steering ratio of 12.0 offers precise and responsive steering feel. Acura’s Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and Agile Handling Assist® further refine the driving dynamics, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s responsiveness to their preferences. The 4-wheel disc brakes, with ventilated 12.4-inch front discs and solid 12.2-inch rear discs, provide confident stopping power. The turning diameter, curb to curb, is 38.9 feet, offering good maneuverability in urban environments.
Alt text: Diagram illustrating the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system in the 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec, highlighting its torque vectoring capabilities for enhanced handling.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
While performance is a key focus, the 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec with SH-AWD still achieves respectable fuel economy. EPA fuel economy ratings are estimated at 21 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined. The fuel tank capacity is 17.1 U.S. gallons, providing a good driving range. For those needing to tow, the RDX A-Spec SH-AWD has a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs.
Dimensions and Capacity
The 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec offers a spacious and comfortable interior within its well-proportioned exterior. The vehicle measures 187.4 inches in length, 74.8 inches in width, and 65.7 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 108.3 inches. The track is 64.2 inches at the front and 64.7 inches at the rear, contributing to its stable stance. Ground clearance is 8.2 inches unladen, suitable for various road conditions.
Inside, the RDX A-Spec provides ample headroom (40 inches front, 38 inches rear), legroom (42 inches front, 38 inches rear), shoulder room (60 inches front, 57 inches rear), and hiproom (55 inches front, 50 inches rear). The EPA passenger volume is 104 cu ft. Cargo space is generous, with 29.5 cu ft behind the second row and a maximum of 79.8 cu ft behind the first row when the rear seats are folded.
Alt text: Image showcasing the spacious interior of the 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec, emphasizing passenger and cargo room.
Advanced Safety and Technology
The 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec is equipped with AcuraWatch™ advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies, including Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, Traffic Sign Recognition, Pedestrian Detection, and Low Speed Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).
Standard safety features include the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure, dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, next-generation passenger front airbag, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, front knee airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control, 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist. Driver convenience features include Hill Start Assist, Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold, Cruise Control, Blind spot information (BSI) System, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, Auto-On/Off Headlight Operation, Auto High-Beam, Heated Side Mirrors, HomeLink®, and a Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines.
For audio and connectivity, the RDX A-Spec features the True Touchpad Interface™, a 10.2-Inch HD Dual-Content Center Display, a 7-Inch Color Multi-Information Display (MID), Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ Integration, Amazon Alexa Built-In, and a Premium Audio System with 9 Speakers.
A-Spec Exclusive Features and Trims
The A-Spec package distinguishes itself with unique exterior and interior styling cues. It features 20 x 8.0 Shark Gray Split 5-Spoke Aluminum-Alloy Wheels and 255/45 R20 Goodyear Eagle RS-A all-season tires. The Sport Appearance Exterior Package further enhances its aggressive look. Inside, the A-Spec boasts Sport Seats with Perforated Milano Premium Leather and Ultrasuede® with Contrast Stitching and Piping, a Leather-Wrapped, Flat-bottom Sport Steering Wheel, Ebony Headliner, and Iconic Drive™ Ambient LED Cabin Lighting. The interior trim is Y-Pattern Dark Brushed Aluminum.
The 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec is available in a range of premium exterior colors and interior color combinations, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle to their taste.
Conclusion: The Sporty Edge in Luxury SUVs
The 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec Package delivers a compelling blend of sporty styling, engaging performance, and Acura’s renowned luxury and technology. It’s an ideal choice for drivers who desire an SUV that not only meets their practical needs but also excites their senses and reflects a dynamic lifestyle. Explore the 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec to experience a luxury SUV with a true sporting spirit.
