The 2016 Acura RDX has a very simple lineup of models: It's offered with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and with or without a Technology Package.
All Acura RDX models are powered by a 279-horsepower, 3.5L V6 engine, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It provides strong, smooth acceleration, while the car-like MacPherson strut front suspension and independent multi-link rear setup are tuned to be comfort-oriented yet firm enough for quick maneuvers, and an electric power steering system follows a Motion Adaptive algorithm for a natural feel at low or high speeds.
The RDX has seating for five, with the contoured leather seats in back offering more comfort than most other compact crossover wagons. The rear seatbacks are split-folding and flip forward with a 'one-touch' activation--to expand the 16.9 cubic feet with the seatback up to 76.9 cubic feet behind the front seats. Up front, there's a large center console, and Acura has included several other smaller cubbies, in the doors and dash. Ride quality is hushed for a vehicle that also aims to those who enjoy driving, but Active Noise Cancellation helps keep the cabin especially quiet.
From a safety standpoint, Acura added "Jewel Eye" LED headlights and tail lights for 2016, as well as carrying over an advanced stability control system, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and six airbags, along with the Honda/Acura Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure that's designed to help absorb energy in crashes with different-sized vehicles.
Heated front power seats, a power moonroof, keyless entry, heated side mirrors, push-button start and a multi-angle rearview camera system are included in all RDX models. The sound system has 360 watts, and it includes Pandora internet radio (with a connected smartphone and data plan), hands-free calling and SMS text messaging.
Models with the Technology Package add plenty of additional high-tech conveniences, including a navigation system with voice recognition, hard-disk storage, real-time traffic with rerouting features, real-time weather, dual-zone climate control, a power rear tailgate, projector-beam, bi-xenon headlamps, front fog lamps and an Acura/ELS surround-sound system.
Strong, Responsive V6 Powertrain
Capable Handling
Comfortable Interior
Flexible, Versatile Interior Layout
The 2016 RDX gets the "Jewel Eye" LED head and taillight setup. Revisions to the standard 3.5L V6 makes it more efficient. Heated seats are added as standard equipment. The Tech package now includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic monitoring.
The RDX has proved to be a hot seller for Acura, and for good reason. It's small but refined alternative to mid-size luxury models like the Lexus RX or Cadillac SRX. The RDX's simplified model lineup and rich list of standard features also means that buyers get a well-equipped luxury vehicle that has a lower price tag than many other well-equipped models. Among the changes for 2016 include improved power and fuel economy, the front-wheel drive RDX is now rated to be capable of up to 29 mpg on the highway.
