Alt Text: Acura RDX silver luxury compact SUV driving dynamically on a scenic road, showcasing its premium design and handling.
Since its relaunch in June 2018, the Acura RDX has experienced remarkable market success, achieving nine consecutive months of sales records. This impressive performance culminated in a record-breaking annual sales figure for 2018, solidifying the RDX’s position as a top contender and often the best-selling retail model in the luxury compact SUV segment. Its popularity underscores the RDX’s resonance with consumers seeking a top-tier luxury compact SUV that delivers on multiple fronts.
What sets the Acura RDX apart in the top luxury compact SUV landscape is its commitment to delivering an exhilarating driving experience without compromising on practicality or comfort. At the heart of the RDX is a potent 272-horsepower turbocharged VTEC® engine, providing ample power for confident acceleration and engaging performance. For enhanced control and all-weather capability, Acura’s Super-Handling All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system is available, intelligently distributing torque for optimal grip and agility. This advanced drivetrain technology elevates the RDX beyond many competitors in the top luxury compact SUV class, offering a driving experience that is both refined and dynamic.
Alt Text: Spacious interior of Acura RDX luxury compact SUV, highlighting generous rear legroom and premium seating materials, emphasizing family-friendly comfort.
Inside the cabin, the Acura RDX further distinguishes itself as a top luxury compact SUV with its focus on passenger comfort and versatility. The RDX boasts a spacious interior with comfortable seating for five adults, class-leading second-row legroom, and a generously sized cargo area. The inclusion of compartmented underfloor storage adds further practicality, making it ideal for families and individuals with active lifestyles. Furthermore, the RDX is equipped with leading-edge connectivity features, including standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. Audiophiles will appreciate the available new 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D® Premium Audio system, transforming the cabin into a concert hall on wheels.
Safety is paramount in the top luxury compact SUV segment, and the Acura RDX excels in this critical area. The 2019 RDX has earned the highest safety accolades, including a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These top-tier safety ratings reflect Acura’s unwavering commitment to occupant protection. Standard on all RDX models is AcuraWatch®, a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, along with Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and eight airbags, including driver and front-passenger knee airbags. These comprehensive safety features provide drivers and passengers with unparalleled peace of mind, solidifying the RDX’s position as a safe and reliable top luxury compact SUV.
Alt Text: Acura RDX dashboard displaying AcuraWatch advanced safety technology features, illustrating its driver assistance and collision mitigation systems within the luxury compact SUV.
The 2019 Acura RDX represents the dawn of a new era for Acura design, performance, and technology. It also introduced the first-ever RDX A-Spec variant, adding a sportier dimension to this already compelling top luxury compact SUV. With a starting MSRP of $37,300 (excluding destination and handling), the RDX offers exceptional value within the luxury segment, providing a wealth of premium features and technologies typically found in higher-priced vehicles.
Built upon an all-new, Acura-exclusive platform, the RDX incorporates a host of premium features, including Acura’s innovative True Touchpad Interface™, an expansive panoramic moonroof, and next-generation Acura sport seats with up to 16-way power adjustability. These features further enhance the RDX’s appeal as a top luxury compact SUV, offering a refined and sophisticated driving environment.
Powering the Acura RDX is a responsive and efficient direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC® engine, paired with a segment-exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission (10AT). This powertrain combination delivers 272 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. of torque, outperforming key competitors in the top luxury compact SUV class, including models from Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Volvo. The available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system further enhances performance, providing exceptional control and agility in various driving conditions.
The Acura RDX stands as a testament to American design and engineering, being the first RDX designed and developed in the United States. Continuing the legacy of its predecessors, the RDX is manufactured in East Liberty, Ohio, showcasing American manufacturing prowess and contributing to the local economy.
In conclusion, the Acura RDX has rightfully earned its place as a top luxury compact SUV. Its winning combination of premium driving experience, family-friendly practicality, advanced technology, and top-tier safety ratings makes it an exceptional choice for buyers seeking a vehicle that excels in all key areas. The Acura RDX is not just competing in the luxury compact SUV segment; it is redefining it.
