The powerful 3.5-liter i-VTEC® V-6 engine produces an impressive 279 horsepower and 252 lbs.-ft. of torque, while the refined Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system and low-friction technology produce class-leading efficiency.
2016 adds active engine mounts that improve engine smoothness while the engine is running on three cylinders. The system monitors throttle position, vehicle speed, engine speed, gear selection and other factors to determine the correct cylinder activation for the operating conditions. The system also monitors catalytic-converter temperature to make sure it remains in the proper range to keep emissions low.
The RDX front strut and rear multi-link suspension systems are tuned to provide a combination of secure handling and exceptional ride. The RDX was one of the first Acura model equipped with Amplitude Reactive Dampers, which have now spread across all Acura model lines.
The RDX fills its 18-inch wheels with large 12.3-inch ventilated discs in the front and 12.0-inch solid discs in the rear, which resist brake fade even after continuous hard use.
Stunning, highly illuminating Jewel Eye® LED headlights are standard on all RDX models. Five low-profile LEDs per headlight provide a whiter, brighter beam while using less energy and lasting significantly longer than HID or traditional halogen headlights.
Press a button on the key fob, and the tailgate will automatically open for you. And when you’re finished loading or unloading, press the button again, and it will power down and latch.
The Multi-Information Display (MID), located between the speedometer and tachometer, can be controlled from the steering wheel and provides a wealth of information from tire pressure to average MPG. Models with the AcuraWatch Plus package have a full-color MID. On models with both the AcuraWatch Plus and Technology packages, this display can also show turn-by-turn directions.
The easy-to-operate standard RDX audio system offers clear, dynamic sound with seven speakers around the cabin, including an 8-inch subwoofer. A large display at the top of the instrument panel provides detailed audio information.
The centerpiece of the Technology Package, the Acura Navigation System, in conjunction with the AcuraLink®, is perhaps the best driving companion since the invention of the car radio.
From the tailgate area, you can lower either or both of the 60/40-split rear seatbacks to enlarge the cargo space. Pull one of the levers positioned on each side near the tailgate, and the rear seatback on that side is spring-loaded to fall forward and form a flat cargo floor.
Since an under-inflated tire impedes handling and can be a safety hazard, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) uses pressure sensors mounted in each wheel that send readings to a central electronic control unit. The system then evaluates whether the pressure is in an acceptable range.
The RDX comes equipped with a security system that has enhanced capabilities due to the new AcuraLink® system. In the event of a break-in the ignition will be disabled, the horn will sound and the lights will flash. When enabled, the AcuraLink system will inform you via your smartphone when your RDX security alarm has been triggered.
When the potential for oversteer or understeer is detected, VSA will reduce the engine’s torque and use the ABS system to apply brakes to each wheel as needed to help stabilize the vehicle.
The Brake Assist system detects emergency braking, monitors the speed at which the brake pedal is depressed and steps in to ensure the ABS system is activated—terminating immediately upon release of the brake pedal.