The 2025 Acura RDX, a stalwart of the premium compact crossover segment, has undergone a mid-cycle refresh. Sharing a platform with its more mainstream Honda siblings, the Civic and CR-V, the RDX has consistently sought to offer a more luxurious driving experience. However, the competitive world in this segment is fiercely contested by both established and emerging brands.
With this update, Acura aims to reinforce the RDX’s position as a compelling choice for buyers seeking a blend of style, performance, and technology. While the refreshed exterior and interior enhancements are steps in the right direction, the true test will be in determining whether they are sufficient to differentiate the RDX from its rivals and capture the attention of discerning consumers.
Acura is positioning its latest RDX as a flagship for its performance SUV lineup. Mike Langel, the vehicle’s assistant vice president of national sales, confidently asserts that this iteration surpasses all previous RDX models in terms of luxury and refinement.
The model’s strong market performance, with over 800,000 units sold since its 2006 debut and a substantial year-over-year sales increase in its segment, has emboldened Acura to introduce a series of enhancements.
These include fresh wheel designs, exterior styling tweaks, increased interior ambiance, and upgraded audio features. The question remains: will these refinements be enough to secure a competitive edge? Priced from $44,350 for the base model to $54,150 for the top-tier A-Spec Advance, the RDX is positioned as a premium offering.
Standard features such as the brand’s signature JewelEye LED headlights, advanced all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring, and a sport-tuned suspension aim to justify the price premium.
A haven of luxury awaits inside the 2024 Acura RDX. Acura offers optional upgrades like open-pore wood trim and Milano leather, making the cabin feel undeniably upscale. Plush 16-way power-adjustable front seats cradle you in comfort, while 27-color ambient lighting sets the mood.
Audiophiles will love the available 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D premium audio system that pumps out 710 watts of immersive sound. Safety is a top priority for Acura, and the RDX boasts a suite of advanced driver-assistance features.
The AcuraWatch package includes Blind Spot Information (BSI), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Traffic Sign Recognition, and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.
Additionally, the AcuraLink connected service provides peace of mind with three years of complimentary connection. American-made quality is a hallmark of the RDX. Built alongside its larger sibling, the MDX, at Acura’s East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio, the RDX boasts a domestic pedigree.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is also manufactured in Ohio at the Anna Engine Plant, while the 10-speed automatic transmission comes from the Honda Transmission Plant in Georgia.
Despite its domestic roots, the RDX faces stiff competition from established players in the luxury compact SUV segment, including the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Cadillac XT5, Infiniti QX50, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Lexus NX or Volvo XC60.
