Teresa’s View
Americans haven’t lost their appetite for SUVs, but higher fuel prices are making smaller sport-utes more attractive — a fact that is not lost on Acura. And so, for the first time, the premium auto manufacturer is introducing a compact SUV to its lineup.
In keeping with the company’s “X-centric” naming convention, the new, entry, premium sport-ute is called the RDX and takes its place next to the midsize Acura MDX.
Power is provided by another first — Acura’s first-ever turbocharged engine. It’s a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder power plant that delivers 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. I know, not everyone is fond of the turbo, but high-tech wizardry keeps turbo lag — that split-second delay between depressing the accelerator and “go” — to a minimum. The four-cylinder engine also helps keep fuel bills reasonable. The EPA rates the RDX at 19 mpg in the city and 23 on the highway.
To better tackle slick or snowy conditions, the RDX is outfitted with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive System. The sly little system not only shifts power between the front and rear wheels, but keeps things randy on the twisties by automatically managing power between right and left wheels on the same side. Performance and handling features are suitable for a sibling of the TSX sport sedan.
Because Acura is joining the mini-me SUV party a bit late, its engineers gave the RDX something to make it memorable — enough optional high-tech gadgets to satisfy even the geekiest geek — check out the optional GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system. Acura says the RDX is “techno-charged.” Isn’t that cute?
The compact SUV also makes a serious commitment to safety, earning it a Top Pick Safety Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, mirror-integrated LED directional signals, side airbags for front-seat occupants and full-length side curtain airbags for everyone.
Acuras exude sumptuousness and the RDX is no exception. The contemporary, plush interior rivals upscale spas for stylish extravagance.
My only real complaint is with the rig’s rough ride. Even though this is a crossover vehicle — meaning it’s more carlike than your average, stump-jumpin’ sport-ute — a stiff suspension produces a less-than-luxurious ride.
What Is It?: The all-new RDX is a four-door, five-passenger, all-wheel-drive, compact SUV from Acura. Pricing for the single trim starts at around $34K with destination charges.
Gadget Rating: 9 out of 10. I’d give the RDX maximum ratings for the surround-sound audio system alone. Good golly, it’s sweet. It comes as part of the Technology Package that includes a navigation system with voice recognition, rearview camera and a Satellite Communication System with real-time traffic updates.
The Grocery Sack Test: Cargo space is about average and the rear seats fold forward for added utility. Large-item loading is aided by a low liftover.
Cheat Sheet: Acura is the premium brand of Honda Motor Co.
Recommended Fuel: Premium.