The quest for the Best Compact Luxury Suv often leads discerning buyers to weigh a multitude of factors: safety, performance, features, and overall value. In 2019, the Acura RDX emerged as a compelling contender, achieving top accolades in safety and surging to the forefront of sales charts. This article delves into the reasons why the 2019 Acura RDX not only earned prestigious safety awards but also captured the hearts of consumers, solidifying its position as a leader in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment.
Unmatched Safety Ratings: An IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+
For families and individuals prioritizing safety, the 2019 Acura RDX delivers peace of mind with the highest possible safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The RDX was awarded the coveted TOP SAFETY PICK+, a distinction reserved for vehicles demonstrating superior crash protection and advanced safety technologies.
This prestigious rating is not easily attained. To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must earn “GOOD” ratings in all six IIHS crashworthiness evaluations, including the rigorous driver- and passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests. The 2019 Acura RDX excelled in each of these demanding assessments, proving its robust construction and commitment to occupant protection.
The IIHS highlighted the RDX’s exceptional roof strength, stating, “The 2019 Acura RDX excelled in our six crashworthiness evaluations, including the roof strength test. Our testing apparatus applied over 21,000 lbs of force to the RDX’s roof before it crushed 5 inches. That’s more than 5 times the weight of the vehicle.” This remarkable roof strength is a testament to Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, a key safety innovation.
Beyond crashworthiness, the TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation also requires available front crash prevention systems that earn an “advanced” or “superior” rating, and “good” rated headlights. The 2019 RDX comes standard with AcuraWatch™, a suite of active safety and driver-assistance technologies, which earned a “superior” rating for front crash prevention. This suite includes features like Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Road Departure Mitigation, proactively working to help prevent accidents. Furthermore, the standard Acura Jewel Eye™ LED headlights on the RDX are rated “good” by the IIHS, contributing to its top safety score.
Sales Success: America’s Top Choice in Compact Luxury SUVs
Safety is paramount, but the best compact luxury SUV also needs to resonate with buyers on multiple levels. The 2019 Acura RDX did just that, achieving remarkable sales success and becoming America’s #1 retail-selling compact luxury SUV for 2018. This sales leadership wasn’t a fleeting moment; the RDX achieved six consecutive monthly sales records following its June launch, demonstrating sustained consumer demand.
This sales momentum indicated that the RDX offered more than just safety. It signaled a vehicle that met the evolving needs and desires of luxury SUV buyers. The RDX was on pace to surpass 60,000 units in annual sales, setting a new all-time record for the model – a clear indication of its widespread appeal and market dominance in the best compact luxury SUV category.
Jon Ikeda, Acura vice president & general manager, aptly stated, “The 2019 Acura RDX offers the highest level of standard safety and driver-assistance features in its class, so earning class-leading safety ratings is a strong proof point of the technology and design innovation we’re bringing to the game.” This combination of safety, technology, and design innovation clearly resonated with consumers, driving the RDX’s sales success.
Innovation and Features: Elevating the Luxury SUV Experience
The 2019 Acura RDX wasn’t just about safety; it represented a significant step forward in design, performance, and technology for the Acura brand. Built on an all-new, Acura-exclusive body and chassis architecture, the RDX introduced a host of premium features and technologies designed to elevate the luxury SUV experience.
Inside, the RDX debuted Acura’s award-winning True Touchpad Interface™, a revolutionary approach to infotainment control. The cabin was bathed in natural light thanks to an ultra-wide panoramic moonroof, and audiophiles could indulge in the available Acura ELS Studio 3D™ premium audio system. Next-generation Acura sport seats, offering up to 16-way power adjustability, ensured exceptional comfort for both driver and passengers.
Under the hood, the RDX featured a potent direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-liter engine paired with the segment’s only 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivered 272 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. of torque, outperforming key competitors in its class, including models from Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Volvo. For enhanced handling and control, Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system was available, providing exceptional agility in various driving conditions.
An American-Made Luxury SUV
Adding another layer of appeal, the 2019 Acura RDX marked a significant milestone as the first RDX to be designed and developed in America. This American ingenuity, combined with manufacturing in East Liberty, Ohio, using domestic and globally sourced parts, further solidified the RDX’s position as a compelling choice for buyers seeking a best compact luxury SUV with a strong domestic footprint.
Conclusion: The 2019 Acura RDX – A Top Contender for Best Compact Luxury SUV
The 2019 Acura RDX presented a compelling package for those in the market for a best compact luxury SUV. Its class-leading safety ratings, record-breaking sales, innovative features, and powerful performance positioned it as a top contender. For buyers prioritizing safety without compromising on luxury and driving enjoyment, the 2019 Acura RDX stands out as a highly recommended option. Explore the 2019 Acura RDX and discover why it earned its place as a leader in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment.
