Red leather interior sets a sporty tone for the RDXAside from a name that looks like it came off an eye-chart, the new 2019 Acura RDX SH-AWD A-SPEC (see!) is redefining the luxury compact crossover segment.
The third-generation RDX raises the bar with expressive styling and a potent 272-horsepower turbocharged engine. Too, its advanced all-wheel-drive system is a worthwhile $2,000 option.
If first impressions are important (and they certainly are in the new-car world), the new RDX offers a striking profile with more visual interest than the outgoing model, which was more conservatively styled.
Our tester, an Apex Blue Pearl model provided by the manufacturer for a one-week trial, sports the A-SPEC package which infuses the RDX with sporty upgrades. The package includes leather trimmed seats with Ultrasuede inserts, a 16-speaker audio system, 20-inch alloy wheels and an attractive black headliner.
FAST FACTS
* Model: 2019 Acura RDX SH-AWD A-SPEC* Exterior color: Apex Blue Pearl* Interior color: Red* Engine: 2.0-liter, turbo-charged, four-cylinder* Horsepower: 272* Transmission: 10-speed automatic* Fuel economy: 26 mpg highway, 21 mpg city* Local Dealer: Acura of Chattanooga* Price (as tested): $46,995
The new RDX is in ample supply at Acura of Chattanooga (2131 Chapman Road). Earlier this week the dealership had 28 RDXs in digital inventory including both 2019 and 2020 models.
WHAT IS IT?
The RDX is a five-passenger luxury compact crossover that emphasizes performance and pulse-quickening styling. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine can launch the RDX from zero-to-60 mph in well under six seconds. Driving modes include "sport," "snow," "comfort," and "sport-plus."
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Our tester, which slots toward the upper end of the trim ladder, has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $46,995. Acura says for 2020, pricing for the RDX ranges from $37,600 to $47,700.
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WHAT WE LIKED?
Our 12-year-old son, who sees a lot of new vehicles in our driveway in a year's time, was enamoured of the new RDX, an indication that the design hits the mark with younger eyes. The Apex Blue Pearl paint is a fetching tone, and the turbocharged engine is a treasure.
ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
Maybe it's my 61-year-old frame, but I found it hard to find a comfortable seating position in the RDX. My knees and hips seemed to be in constant tug of war to find a position that suited both sets of joints.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
Thrashing through the curves on Taft Highway up Signal Mountain was more fun than should be allowed in a crossover, cementing the impression that the RDX is part sports car.
BOTTOM LINE
Buyers in the luxury compact crossover segment: Run, don't walk, to your nearest Acura store to put a new RDX through its paces.
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The RDX has a 272-horsepower engine.