New-look Acura RDX revealed
What is it? Acura’s popular compact crossover, the RDX, has been extensively reworked and restyled for 2016. Not only is the look crisper from all angles, it benefits from the inclusion of “Jewel Eye” LED projector headlamps and LED taillights. Both facets add more sophistication.
Why does it matter? The 2016 RDX earns a new 3.5-litre V6 engine with variable cylinder management. It produces 279 and 252 lb.-ft., which represent marginal increases (up six and one, respectively) over the outgoing engine. The cylinder deactivation system can shut down two of the six cylinders to conserve fuel. While this engine has been reworked to improve its power and efficiency, it is not the same unit as the new direct injection engine that debuted in the 2016 Honda Pilot. That’s a strange decision given Acura is the uplevel brand.
Other dynamic upgrades include active engine mounts, a revised steering setup for improved feel and stiffer suspension mounting points. Acura says the latter sharpens the handling while delivering a more comfortable ride. The RD X’s all-wheel-drive system has also been tweaked to deliver more torque transfer to the rear than the current system.
Inside, the RD X’s materials are richer and there is a new Advance Package. It adds rain-sensing wipers, fog lights, remote engine start, front and rear parking sensors, ventilated front seats and AcuraWatch. This system features a new 4.2-inch display with readouts for things like average speed, fuel economy, distance to empty, tire pressure and, when equipped, turn-by-turn instructions for the navigation system. It also brings lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation and lane keep assist, along multi-view backup camera and an expanded view driver’s side mirror.
When is it coming? The 2016 Acura RDX is slated to launch this spring. Pricing was not announced in Chicago, but expect it to mirror current pricing (a starting point of $41,690)
Should you buy it? The new RDX is shaper looking and it benefits from some noteworthy improvements throughout, especially in the cabin. As such, it is destined to remain a popular sporty crossover — engine choice aside.