History/Overview
Acura redesigned the RDX compact crossover model into its third generation last year. In the process, it gained sharp styling based around a pentagonal grille and performance derived from a new turbocharged engine and the brand's impressive SH-AWD system. For 2020, the RDX is carried over unchanged.
Available Trims
The RDX comes in five trims. A base model (simply called RDX) is followed by Tech, A-Spec, Elite and Platinum Elite packages. All come standard with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission and the SH-AWD system.
Standard Features
All RDX trims include 19-inch wheels, automatic high beams, forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane departure warning, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, a front wiper de-icer, heated side mirrors, LED headlights, brake lights and daytime running lights, panoramic sunroof, power tailgate, 7.0-inch multi-information display, 10.2-inch infotainment display with touchpad controller, active noise control, ambient lighting, auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, passive keyless entry, 12-way electric front seat adjustments with lumbar, heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, a nine-speaker stereo and Apple CarPlay.
Tech trim adds speed limit information, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers, navigation, front and rear parking sensors and a 12-speaker stereo.
A-Spec gets 20-inch wheels, LED fog lights, power-folding side mirrors, Alcantara/leather seating with contrast stitching, heated steering wheel, sport pedals, ventilated front seats and a 16-speaker stereo.
The Elite package reverts to 19-inch wheels and a 12-speaker sound system shared with the Tech trim, and adds auto-dimming side mirrors, headlight washers, exterior approach lighting, heated rear seats and perforated leather upholstery.
Finally, Platinum Elite gains an adaptive damper suspension, adaptive headlights, a backup camera washer, head-up driver display, rear-seat climate control, surround-view camera system, 16-way front seat adjustments with thigh extension and side bolsters and ash wood interior trim.
Fuel economy
Acura's fuel consumption estimates for the 2020 RDX are 11.0/8.6 L/100 km (city/highway) for all configurations save A-Spec, whose ratings are 11.3/9.1 L/100 km.
Competition
The compact luxury crossover class is a lucrative one, so most of Acura's competitors field a model in this category. They include the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, Lexus NX, Volvo XC60, Jaguar E-Pace, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Porsche Macan, Lincoln MKC/Corsair and Cadillac XT5. The Volkswagen Tiguan is a mainstream model with upscale intentions, although its performance isn't quite up to the luxury standard. Mazda offers its CX-5 in a Signature trim with a strong turbo engine that makes a better case for itself as a luxury alternative.
