The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

New Acura RDX is just what the doctor ordered

- By Olivia Olsen SPECIAL TO STATESMAN CARS

When searching for a midsize luxury crossover SUV, there seems to be a never-ending list of options. When placing style over performanc­e or technology over safety features, the list may narrow, but when all features are equally as important, look no further than the all-new 2017 Acura RDX.

Created as the luxury branch of Japanese manufactur­er Honda, Acura was introduced to the United States in 1986 and quickly became the object of many car buyers’ desires. As the first Japanese luxury car brand, Acura had a lot of hype to live up to, thought they eventually surpassed expectatio­ns. By the time the RDX was introduced in 2007, Acura continued to be ahead of the game.

The 10-year anniversar­y edition of the RDX is where flawless design meets enhanced technology, melding beauty and brains into one spacious yet manageable vehicle.

Starting at just $35,800, the RDX is a vehicle well within reach that will still have you living the high life.

The body of the RDX is sculpted to perfection, every inch of it an architectu­ral masterpiec­e. The aerodynami­c body commands the attention of everyone on the road and fills out a parking space like none in its class. From the use of a 3D grille and Jewel Eye LED headlights to the stunning light pipe design LED tail lights, this beauty, nomatter which color you pick, will turn heads left and right.

Performanc­e is where the RDX shines, leaving no room for mediocrity. A 3.5-liter I-VTEC Engine powers the vehicle while the All-Wheel Drive with Intelligen­t Control System maximizes traction and minimizes friction all by detecting the road underneath.

Rounding out the wonders of the RDX performanc­e is the sixspeed automatic transmissi­on, Sequential Sport Shift Paddle Shifters, Grade Logic Control, and fuel efficiency of 22 combined miles per gallon.

The interior of the RDX doesn’t just pride itself on luxury craftsmans­hip visible in every detail; it boasts comfort where it most counts -- space. The exceptiona­l amount of legroom in the rear row is matched only by the amount of cargo space that can be created with the 60⁄40 split seat. With both seats erect, the cargo space sits at 26.1 cubic feet but can expand to 76.9 cubic feet with adjustment­s.

In the RDX, everything has its place. Cabin storage is utilized throughout with a center console large enough to store an entire gallon of milk and door panel storage for those in back.

Loading up the RDX is easier than ever with standard technology. A power-operated tailgate will have the door opening in one motion at the push of a button, calling back to the days when the trunk of your sedan held enough room.

Keyless entry doesn’t just allow you to enter the vehicle without removing the keys from your purse. In fact, touching the driver’s side door handle will automatica­lly shift the mirror, seat, and climate settings to your liking. With a simple push of a button to start the car, rummaging for your keys in a poorly lit parking lot is a worry of the past.

Technology is front and center in the RDX. AcuraLink Satellite Communicat­ion can pinpoint your vehicle in an emergency or simply send you navigation. Most impressive­ly, GPS-Linked Climate Control uses solar sensors to determine the best climate for your cabin. In addition, the RDX allows you to send, receive, and listen to text messages and emails through the touch screen display, ensuring that you remain connected and alert.

With beauty, luxury and technology features beyond its class, the 2017 Acura RDX is just what the doctor ordered.

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