ACURA RDX

[tokyodream Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close tokyodream]

2013 Acura RDX walk-around with Jon Ikeda :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqghs...layer_embedded

[Cristi Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Cristi]

Eu zic ca nu dezvolta un diesel pentru ca americanii nu prea au auzit de asa ceva deocamdata nu ii intereseaza subiectul

@turkish: piata auto e intr-adevar o mare mocirla acum, cred ca doar schimburile sunt posibile pana la o anumita suma; de aceea am inceput sa iau si eu in considerare un schimb in ultima vreme

am mers cu un CRV, dar nu am condus niciodata; totusi sunt aproape sigur ca sunt diferente si la transmisie+suspensie

Pentru BMW, Mercedes si Audi au crescut vinzarile de motorizari diesel in America. Infiniti nu vinde (inca) motorizarea diesel si in US, doar in EU. Ar putea sa se gindeasca si Acura la asa ceva, ba chiar de prin 2008-2009 prin comunicatele de lansare de model nou de MDX se spune si despre posibilitatea de lansare ulterioara a unei versiuni diesel.

http://www.mdxers.org/forums/74-2007...el-2010-a.html

Eu am mers mult cu CR-V 2.0 si m-am dat de 3 ori citeva ore cu RDX. CR-V sta bine in curbe pt un SUV (mai bine chiar decit unele sedanuri cu suspensii moi) dar nu se compara cu RDX. RDX mi s-a parut ca sta mai bine in curbe decit Accord-ul vechi si ca are acelasi raspuns bun al directiei ca Accord-ul. De diferente de demaraj de pe loc si din mers nu are rost sa mai spun, puterea si mai ales cuplul de la RDX fac o maaare diferenta.

@LoDRpR: super bun consumul tau in oras. Eu la Infiniti ajung si pe la 22 atunci cind merg mult bara la bara. Si asta e un consum care seamana cu ce spun americanii pe forumurile lor. La fel si cel de highway. din ce am citit eu consumul la RDX la americani e pe-acolo cu cel de la FX35. Cred ca ai optimizat tu cumva motorul ;-)

[LoDRpR Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close LoDRpR]

@LoDRpR: super bun consumul tau in oras. Eu la Infiniti ajung si pe la 22 atunci cind merg mult bara la bara. Si asta e un consum care seamana cu ce spun americanii pe forumurile lor. La fel si cel de highway. din ce am citit eu consumul la RDX la americani e pe-acolo cu cel de la FX35. Cred ca ai optimizat tu cumva motorul ;-)

@Cristi mersi pentru incredere, insa mi-e teama ca nu merit creditele tehnice: consumul oficial pt RDX este de 17mpg (13.8l/100) in oras, iar mie imi ia 15-17 la mersul normal prin Bucuresti.
Nu m-am uitat niciodata la consum dupa 30 minute de stat la coada..

[Marius -Iulian Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Marius -Iulian]

e de 2.3 motorul de pe actualul model, iar in Bucuresti consuma undeva intre 15 si 17 in ultima vreme.

Nu te lua dupa ce scriu americanii despre consumuri ca nu bate, au alta benzina acolo. Eu ma uit si pe un forum american Acura, iar consumul meu e singurul care "sare calul".

si traficul e altul... foarte putine locuri in USA au nivelul de trafic din Bucuresti ( am fost relativ socat in vara cand am condus vreo cateva zile in Bucuresti). mie consumul la MDX agregat pe primii 10k km mi-a iesit 17.4mpg=13.5l/100km ( in fine cam 2/3 din acesti km in regim de autostrada la vitezele uzuale pe aici 105-125km/h). chiar si cand stau numai in suburbiile noastre nu am sarit de 15l%. desigur evit sa conduc la orele de varf si pe arterele cele mai probabil sa fie congestionate ( in plus e intotdeauna mai fun de condus pe drumurile mai inguste si umbroase de tzara).

pe autostrada la 120km/h pe tempomat( cruise control) scoate consumul cel mai bun 19.5mpg/12l%. 20mpg (cifra de pe eticheta) nu am reusit, banuiesc ca merge doar daca o tii la 100km/h...

[Marius -Iulian Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Marius -Iulian]

eu am un prieten care are Legend si in regim urban, la condus mai lejer ia cam 17-18
poate ca au facut oamenii niste teste si, mai ales cu o cutie noua, care poate e mai economica, motorul de 3,6 sau 3,7 cat va fi el poate consuma tot in zona 17 (adica similar celui de 2.3 turbo)
in aceste conditii singurul dezavantaj este impozitul (in RO ca in state nu e nicidecum atat de mare)

ma gandesc ca asa au ajuns la decizia cu mersul in sus
ce ma frapeaza pe mine este ca - mai ales in cazul Acura - nu este disponibil un diesel V undeva in zona 3 litri si 250-300 CP
in conditiile in care competitia premium - Audi, Beemer, Infiniti - are asa ceva

LE: in ultimile 10 zile am condus un CRV si mi-a placut tare, tare mult; cu singura exceptie notabila legata de faptul ca motorul diesel si 150 CP cuplat cu actuala cutie automata se cam chinuie la reprizele de peste 100km/h; ceea ce actualul meu accord (2,4) nu face; asta e una din chestiile majore care ma tine pe loc sa nu ma mut inspre CRV; RDX-ul ar parea o solutie pentru problema asta - are in plus motorul tubo pe benzina, pe care o prefer, si shAWD, ramane sa ma decid daca ma complic cu miscari auto pe piata asta care este super scarboasa;

1) aici nu sunt deloc taxe pe cilindree. platesti doar sales tax ( un fel de TVA dar mai mic, e max 9.5% in California) si apoi anual talonul ( registration) a carui valoare e de regula legata de valoarea de piata a masinii ( nu de emisii sau cilindree). de aceea dictonul american "there is no replacement for displacement" e inca bine mersi.

2) dieselul nu a prins de partea asta a baltii pentru ca benzina este inca ieftina ( sub 1$/l). o masina diesel e cu vreo 2-3000$ mai scumpa decat una pe benzina la aceeasi performanta. motorina e cam cu 5-10 centi/l mai scumpa decat benzina. din cauza asta costul pe km la un diesel nu iese mai mic decat la un benzinar. afara ca esti strict interesat sa consumi mai putini l% nu prea te intereseaza...un civic 1.8l costa mai putin pe km decat o Jetta TDI 140CP si se misca la fel ( de fapt ceva mai gratios )...

[Turkish Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Turkish]

@LoDRpR

Am tot citit diverse recenzii pe net despre RDX si daca e sa iasa o chestie mai putin buna in evidenta vis a vis de masina apoi aia e legata de turbo lag; exista insa si opinii care nu se plang de loc de asta cum ca ar fi "mai mare" turbo lag-ul decat la alte masini; ce mi se pare mie e ca majoritarea care se plang mai vehement de chestia asta sunt americani care sunt obisnuiti mai ales cu aspirate cat vacile in V, si ma gandesc ca poate au asteptari gresite de la un motor 2.3 turbo;

Tu ce parere ai man? Ti se pare mai puternic lag-ul decat la alte masini? Sau ca sa intreb altfel? E ceva care sa te enerveze non stop si sa te sacaie? Sa nu te poti obisnui? Sau e "un lag ca toate lag-urile"...

[LoDRpR Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close LoDRpR]

Un delay mai mare (eu zic putin peste 1 sec) poate sa apara daca bag piciorul tare, masina schimba 2 trepte inferior si apoi incepe sa accelereze; dar comportamentul asta e normal pentru orice masina cu transmisie automata.

Legat strict de turbo-lag: ori m-am obisnuit eu sa mearga asa, ori e un lag ff mic; nu mi se pare deloc deranjant.

Vad ca esti din Bucuresti, ne putem intalni sa vezi despre ce e vorba daca te intereseaza.

[Turkish Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Turkish]

multumesc frumos de propunere
de automata stiu ca asa face si tourerul meu

eram curios de turbo pentru ca review-urile mi se par destul de polarizate in ceea ce priveste subiectul

am un soi de oportunitate inspre un RDX din 2010 care nu este inca in nici un fel foarte posibila, ci doar la tatonari, dar daca se misca lucrurile poate iti scriu legat de experienta la prima mana a lagului, sa vad cum mi se pare ca sa iau o decizie finala informata

sarumana de raspuns

[LoDRpR Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close LoDRpR]

stiu ca te incanta ideea de ceva timp, eu recomand masina, sunt foarte multumit de ea.

Stiu ca in 2010 au facut un facelift, design-ul e schimbat putin fata de a mea, dar prin partile esentiale e aceeasi masina .

[tokyodream Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close tokyodream]

2013 Acura RDX Introduced Again, This Time in Chicago and For Real


http://blog.caranddriver.com/2013-acura-rdx-introduced-again-this-time-in-chicago-and-for-real/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaig n=Feed%3A+caranddriver%2Fblog+(Car+and+Driver)

Car companies only get one chance to introduce their new cars. But between sketches, renderings, concepts, teasers, and leaks, they’re quickly learning how to exploit the internet for more opportunities to discuss cars prior to actually revealing them. Acura apparently realized too late that it had blown the opportunity to draw out the introduction of its 2013 RDX and settled for calling the car that officially debuted at the Detroit auto show a prototype. At the Chicago show, Acura is introducing a production RDX.
What’s changed on the RDX from prototype to production vehicle? The paint. Apparently silver is a prototype color. And the wheels. Also, the RDX has a strut front suspension and a multilink rear (we hadn’t told you that before) and something called Amplitude Reactive Dampers. Free advice to Acura marketing: Call them Adaptive Amplitude Reactive Dampers, pair them with a camera-based system that scans the road ahead and primes the shocks for upcoming imperfections, call the latter Visual Anticipation of Road Kinematics, and your initialism could be AARDVARK. Also, please stick to just introducing your cars once.
If you missed it the first time, you can read the rest of the details on this second-gen RDX in our story from last month’s Detroit show.

=====================================

Acura Debuts 2013 RDX and All-New ILX Sedan at Chicago Auto Show

http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=1038191

2013 Acura RDX

The 2013 Acura RDX, the second generation of Acura’s five-passenger crossover SUV, will up the ante with a new approach to achieving both advanced performance and fuel efficiency via a new engine, transmission and all-wheel-drive system.

The 2013 RDX rides on a 4-wheel independent suspension with a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension design. A longer wheelbase, wider track and lower center of gravity provide the foundation for the new RDX’s improved handling and ride quality. New chassis technology for 2013 includes Acura-exclusive Amplitude Reactive Dampers and a new Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering system that replaces the previous hydraulic steering.

The 2013 RDX will be available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants. Standard features for 2013 RDX include bold new 5-spoke 18-inch wheels and improved 4-wheel disc brakes that include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Not only do the brakes provide better performance, but they also incorporate improvements to lessen brake drag for reduced rolling resistance and improved fuel economy.

Replacing the turbocharged 2.3-liter inline 4-cylinder used with the previous RDX, the 2013 RDX will now have as standard equipment a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 273 horsepower— 33 more than the outgoing model. For even higher performance and improved fuel economy, the RDX makes use of an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter. The RDX also gets a new, lighter weight all-wheel-drive system that provides outstanding performance and safety with increased efficiency to achieve higher fuel economy.

With an EPA estimated* city/highway fuel economy rating of 20/28 mpg, front-wheel-drive versions of the 2013 RDX are expected to offer the best fuel economy of any gasoline-powered V-6 luxury SUV in the class. All-wheel-drive models will deliver an EPA estimated* city/highway fuel economy of 19/27 mpg.

The RDX boasts a sleek and more aerodynamic body, evolving RDX from a sporty, compact SUV to a more formal SUV appearance with a longer, sculpted hood and styling that is more elegant and sophisticated to match the Acura philosophy of timeless, beautiful design.

Inside the 2013 RDX, new sweeping shapes, matte surface trim, and generous use of leather combine to give the RDX interior an upscale look and luxury feel that Acura customers have come to expect. Abundant use of sound deadening materials and Active Sound Control team to provide an exceptionally quiet cabin. Additional interior features, such as larger door openings, more passenger room, increased cargo volume and an available power rear tailgate make the RDX interior even more accommodating and flexible.

The 2013 RDX will receive a host of new technologies including Pandora® internet radio interface, SMS text message feature, a Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start, and a three view rear camera. An available Technology Package will provide a full complement of relevant technologies, including an Acura ELS Surround® audio system, AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps. New for 2013, an even more advanced navigation system utilizes a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity— including 15 gigabytes that can be allocated for music storage.

Passenger safety has always been a cornerstone of every Acura model. In addition to using Acura’s acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, the 2013 RDX employs new design features and myriad high strength materials aimed specifically at occupant protection. Although yet to be tested, Acura anticipates that the RDX will achieve top crash safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2013 RDX will be produced (using U.S. and globally sourced parts) exclusively by the company’s East Liberty, Ohio plant— home to one of four of the top five-rated assembly lines in North America in the J.D. Power and Associates’ 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The first generation RDX is produced at the Marysville, Ohio auto plant.

About Acura

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 272 dealers within the United States. The 2012 Acura lineup features six distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan and Sport Wagon, the turbocharged RDX crossover SUV, the MDX luxury SUV and the ZDX four-door sports coupe.

POZE => https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?...7303428&type=3

[tokyodream Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close tokyodream]

Chicago LIVE: 2013 Acura RDX breaks cover in the Windy City [Video update]

http://www.leftlanenews.com/acura-rdx-2013.html

Previewed in concept form at the Detroit show, the new Acura RDX has now been fully revealed in production fettle at the Chicago Auto Show. The second generation of Acura ’s small crossover gains a new look inside and out and drops its turbocharged four-cylinder engine for a more conventional, more fuel efficient and more powerful 3.5-liter V6.

The RDX remains a five-passenger entry-luxe crossover aimed at such rivals as the BMW X3 , Audi Q5 and Cadillac SRX .
Under its new hood is a 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 273 horsepower, a 33 pony climb over the outgoing 2.3-liter turbo four. While the old engine wasn’t noted for its smoothness, the new engine is a version of the veritable V6 that does duty in everything from Honda Accords to Acura TL s. A six-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter sends power to either the front or all four wheels.
Acura estimates that the redesigned RDX will be rated at 20/28 mpg by the EPA for a front-drive model, figures the automaker says are best-in-class. All-wheel drive models are expected to carry a 19/27 mpg rating.
Of course, a new engine isn’t the only news for 2013. Inside and out, the crossover is all-new. As expected, the exterior production RDX differs from the concept in very small details – in fact, the only change we can see is more modest wheels. Otherwise, as with the concept, a longer hood and cleaner angles give the RDX a more finished look than its predecessor, while its side profile is very close to the MDX big brother.
Inside, the luxury level is ratcheted up thanks to additional sound deadening and Active Sound Control, which cancels out ambient noise. The dashboard is more shapely than the somewhat squared-off unit in the outgoing model, while old three-binnacle instrument cluster is replaced by a cleaner setup with large, legible speedometer and tachometer readouts.
New features include Pandora Internet radio, SMS text messaging, a smart key entry system with push-button start and a tri-view rear camera. An optional Technology Package adds navigation and a 60 GB hard drive for audio storage.
The East Liberty, Ohio-built RDX goes on sale this spring.

[tokyodream Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close tokyodream]

2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD Review By John Heilig

http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2...hn-heilig.html




SPECIFICATIONS : 2012 Acura RDX

Model: 2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD
Engine: 2.3-liter DOHC turbocharged I4
Horsepower/Torque: 240 hp @ 6,000 rpm/260 lb.-ft. @ 4,500 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 104.3 in.
Length/Width/Height: 182.5 x 73.6 x 65.2 in.
Tires: P235/55R18
Cargo volume: 27.8/60.6 cu. ft. (rear seats up/down)
Fuel economy: 17 mpg city/22 mpg highway/17.4 mpg test
Fuel capacity: 18.0 gal.
Curb weight: 3,931 lbs.
Sticker: $38,880 (includes $885 destination and handling charge)

Top 5 Reasons To Buy This Car

1. Good transportation
2. Comfortable
3. Loaded with features
4. Luxurious
5. Practical

The Bottom Line: The Acura RDX may have been one of the easiest mid-size SUVs, and it still is the standard by which the others are measured. The RDX combines luxury, practicality and comfort in a nice-looking package that has the advantage of all-wheel drive, something many of the others don't offer.

One thing I've always liked about the Acura RDX is its styling. It has always been modern, but it isn't way out there in never-never land. "Tasteful" is probably the best description.

I also like the RDX's size. In this case, it isn't that much unlike most of the other mid-size SUVs. To me, this is the most practical size. Sure, there are times when a big Suburban or 15-passenger van suits your immediate needs, but the RDX's size is near-perfect. It's comfortable for trips around town or on the Interstate. Goldilocks would like it; it isn't too big, nor is it too small.

The "standard" RDX has always been equipped with a 3.5-liter V6, or one of similar size. However, this version is fitted with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four. The engine puts out 240 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, so there's enough power there to do most anything you'd want, apart from drag racing.

It also delivers decent fuel economy at a tested 17.4 mpg that included some highway miles. Sure, everyone hopes for the magical 40 mpg highway, but the effort to reach that number can often not be worth the cost. Seventeen mpg is a good number.

The one drawback is that the engine is noisier than you would expect from an Acura.

The RDX also exhibits very nice handling. Again, while you wouldn't take it to a drag strip, you also wouldn't take it to a road racing course, but on the highways and back roads around my home town it behaved itself very well.

There were a couple of nagging points. For example, in order to install a child seat in the rear you have to wrangle the seat to get at the seat belt receivers. This isn't a major point, but if you're toting children, you have to do this EVERY time.

Also, the doors don't unlock automatically when you shut everything off. I'll concede that there may be a switch that I didn't use hidden somewhere, but as I received the RDX, it didn't unlock.

Cargo areas inside the RDZ are abundant. There's a lockable center console that's deep and has a USB connection inside. The glove box is small, however. There are the requisite two cup holders in the center console.

We liked the headroom, which was excellent. My wife also liked the door pulls, which gave her something to hold on to when I was checking on the cornering abilities of the RDX.

Besides a standard instrument panel, there's a digital clock and small information panel at the base of the windshield. It also contains HVAC temperatures and audio information. It's nice to have it there, but you have to remember to look. This wouldn't be a problem for a person who drives the RDX all the time.

The front seats are comfortable. The rear seats are flat, but have good leg room and a flat floor that permits a center passenger to ride there. There are four assist handles for those of us infirm enough to need them

And finally, there's a lot of glass all around, so no one will get a claustrophobic feeling.

As it was when it either created or defined the midsize luxury sport utility market, the Acura can be almost all things to almost all people.

© 2012 The Auto Page

[tokyodream Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close tokyodream]

Acura RDX continues as 'right-sized' CUV

http://www.thereporter.com/news/ci_19960114?source=rss

Since its introduction, Acura's RDX has become one of the biggest players in the compact premium CUV market segment. For the 2012 model year, the RDX continues to evolve, still offering two drivetrains: a Two-Wheel Drive model for those consumers who have no need for Four-Wheel Drive, and a Super-Handling AWD model. The 2012 RDX manages to retain its core features which include: aggressive, modernistic styling cues; a sporty driving dynamic and intuitive technology in an efficient and more personally sized compact package, while displaying Acura's bold signature grille, along with, integrated fog lights, futuristic headlight and taillight treatments, black and satin trim garnishes, aggressive alloy wheel designs and sporty, bright exhaust finishers.

Luxury interior features include; intuitive HVAC controls and soothing ambient lighting. Standard features provided are: a compass, auto headlight operation and rearview camera display. Other technological features and equipment include: USB port connectivity Bluetooth® audio; real-time weather and traffic with a re-routing function and note function for XM radio. Leather-trimmed front seats provide a high outward visibility through elevated positioning, while the rear, three-passenger seat has a 60/40 split, fold flat feature for added versatility and functionality.

Power for both the FWD and SH-AWD RDX models is provided by a turbocharged 2.3-liter DOHC, 16-valve inline four cylinder i-VTEC engine with electronic multi-point fuel injection that makes 240 horses, while generating 260 pound feet of torque. The engine is positioned transversely up front, driving either the front wheels or all four with Super Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWDª). The engine mates to a five-speed automatic transmission with sequential SportShift featuring steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Throttle is "By Wire."

The lower cost 2WD version of the RDX is lighter in weight, resulting in improved fuel economy. A base model RDX with SH-AWD begins at $34,895, with the Tech Package model starting at $37,620. The 2WD base model has a starting price of $32,520 with the Tech Package SH-AD model starting at $37,995.

Suspension setups for all models are fully independent fore and aft with stabilizer bars and Vehicle Stability Assistª. Braking feel was improved previously by a new booster and servo.

My test Acura RDX came with the Tech Package and SH-AWD, finished outside in Polished Metal metallic with a charcoal toned interior. The MSRP read $37,995 with the only extra cost incurred was the Destination and Handling charge, which raised the final total to $38,880 before tax and license. The Tech Package included: Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system with 6-disc DVD-audio, CD/MP3/WMA player, DTS®, AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio, Dolby Pro Logic II 10 speakers and a 410 watt amplifier; and a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, automatic climate control system.

Safety and security features included a full complement of "state-of-the-art" systems and equipment.

SUMMARY: The 2WD version of the Acura RDX enjoys the same chassis benefits as its 4WD counterpart, but seems to deliver a sportier feel due to its lighter weight, although the SH-AWD steering and handling is actually more precise through the "twisties".

The ride quality is firm but not harsh, and the handling attributes are nimble and instantly responsive. The RDX is a luxurious CUV that is positioned below Acura's larger MDX SUV. It is more intimate in its packaging and form, making it the ideal size for many consumers, without sacrificing either performance or comfort.

As with all other Acura models, the 2012 RDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care®, which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing. This protection coupled with Acura's reliability factor, renders the RDX as a sound "just-the-right-size" choice in the CUV marketplace.

SPECIFICATIONS:

2012 Acura RDX Tech SH-AWD

Base Price: $37,995.

Price as Tested: $38,880.

Engine Type and Size: 2.3-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged i-VTEC inline 4-cylinder with electronic multi-point fuel injection with Drive-by-Wireª throttle system.

Horsepower (bhp): 240 @ 6,000 rpm

Torque (ft./lbs.): 260 @ 4,500 rpm

Transmission: 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift and Grade Logic Control System.

Drive Train: Transversely mounted front engine/SH-AWD.

Suspension:

Front - Fully independent MacPherson strut with twin-tube shock absorbers and stabilizer bar.

Rear - Independent multi-link with twin-tube shock absorbers and stabilizer bar.

Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel discs (vented front) with 4-wheel ABS, EBD and BA.

Tires: Michelin Pilot HX MXM4-235/55 R18 all-season mounted on 5-double-spoke alloy wheels.

Wheelbase: 104.3 inches

Length Overall: 182.5 inches

Width: 73.6 inches

Height: 65.2 inches

Curb Weight: 3,942 lbs.

Fuel Capacity: 18 gallons

EPA Mileage Estimates: 17 mpg city/22 mpg highway

Drag Coefficient: Not listed.

0 - 60 mph: Not tested.

[tokyodream Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close tokyodream]

2013 Acura RDX priced from $34,320*

http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/27/2...d-from-34-320/


The redesigned 2013 Acura RDX is headed to dealers this spring, and when it arrives, it will carry a base manufacturer's suggested retail price of $34,320, plus a destination fee of $885. As you may recall, the new RDX has abandoned the turbocharged four-cylinder engine of the outgoing model in favor of a V6 engine with 33 more horsepower. A new six-speed automatic transmission is part of the package as well, and buyers may opt for all-wheel drive for an additional $1,400. Acura is also offering a Technology Package that includes niceties such as AcuraLink satellite communication, navigation with voice recognition, a 60-gig hard drive, real-time weather, traffic and GPS-linked dual-zone climate control. A premium sound system, power liftgate and projector headlights are also part of the kit for $3,700.

Opting for the tech package and all-wheel drive will cost you $39,420 plus destination. Expect front-wheel drive models to yield 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway (better than the exit model's fuel economy despite the larger engine), while the RDX AWD will sacrifice just one mpg in both city and highway driving. Hit the jump for the full press release.

[tokyodream Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close tokyodream]

2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD Road Test and Review

http://www.autobytel.com/acura/rdx/2...review-110034/

As the compact luxury Acura RDX SUV enters the 2012 model year - a swan song in its current form - is it still a competitive entry in a market segment that was far less overpopulated when it was first unveiled? Was Honda right to make the 2013 Acura RDX that was unveiled at this year’s Detroit Auto Show a stylistic mini-MDX? Should they have thrown out the current 2.3 liter 240 horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in favor of a more traditional V6? Or would that have robbed the RDX of the identity that made it special to buyers?

To answer those questions and appease those who are thinking that they don’t want to wait for the 2013 RDX model, we road tested this quirky and off-kilter yet highly capable luxury compact sport utility for a week. Given our experience driving rivals like the Lexus RX350 and Audi Q5 2.0T (among others), we can guarantee you one thing remains true about the 2012 Acura RDX: it's still the only premium entry whose sticker price is reasonable enough that it probably wouldn’t even give Dick Cheney yet another cardiac episode.

Even fully loaded with all of the bells, whistles, luxuries and Acura’s excellent SH-AWD system, the price with destination for our 2012 model came to just $35,780. Just try to similarly equip an Audi Q5 like that and you might need to sell your first born just to cover the cost difference.

For a dose of perspective, you can also find fully loaded Kia Sorentos and Toyota Highlanders on dealer lots for that same price. Sure those both have third row seats but to be quite honest they appear designed to accommodate a tribe of 3 foot tall Amazonian pygmy tribal elders. And while those other SUVs both have V-6 engines, do you really think that will impress your friends, co-workers and neighborhood frenemies? The Acura badge is unique among premium brands in that it will impress snobs yet won’t piss off people who aren’t doing as well as you financially.

2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD: Exterior

It’s undeniable that big brother MDX has the smoother and sleeker SUV shape but there is something wackily endearing and almost hot hatch-like about the exterior look of the 2012 Acura RDX. Or you might say it looks kind of bird like what with its protruding silver beak. No matter, we think it looks awfully mean and just a tiny bit bad ass in all black. Darth Vader would drive just to freak other drivers out on the road. Simply put, a black RDX has a dose of visual menace that you just don’t see in a black Lexus RX. Do they sell black Lexuses or all they all silver?

No matter, the current generation RDX has been on the market for a while now so we are pretty sure you already know what you think of how it looks. We happen to like the somewhat off-kilter proportions, hyper chromed out door handles and the clever way that its character lines seem to mask its true size. Despite having a roomy interior, the 2012 Acura RDX appears quite small which is not the easiest thing to do when styling any vehicle. Just look at the current generation Hyundai Sonata, Courtney Love and the last generation BMW 7-Series for proof that body panel “character lines” often times add a significant amount of visual heftiness to any shape.


2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD: Interior

Considering its rather compact exterior dimensions, it’s amazing how much storage space that Acura crammed into the 2012 Acura RDX. First off the center console between the front seats is so deep that it has a false floor so you can REALLY hide valuables away from thieves. Or a dead body in there. Your choice.

And while we wondered why there was no sunglass holder over our heads as per usual in this class, we found that the two lidded cubbies in the doors worked perfectly to stash eyewear. And there are two spots available for both the driver and front passenger. It does stand to reason that both of said occupants would need sunglasses if, for sooth, the sun was out.

2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD: Fuel Economy

One of the biggest gripes about the RDX originally was that it came with a 4-cylinder engine but only returned EPA estimates of 17 city/22 highway on premium unleaded. We averaged a decent 20.4 miles per gallon during a week of equally mixed town and Southern California freeway driving which translated to a decent cruising range courtesy of an 18 gallon fuel tank.

A 2012 Lexus RX350 we recently tested returned a little over 19 miles per gallon while an Audi Q5 2.0T with the base 4-cylinder returned a healthy 23 miles per gallon perhaps thanks to the benefit of a then all-new 8-speed automatic. Both of the Lexus and Audi compact luxury SUVs run on premium unleaded. So if you want to buy from a premium car brand, expect to probably have to buy premium unleaded gasoline. That should always be an important consideration when setting aside a budget for vehicle expenses.

2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD: Driving Experience

When this first generation of Acura RDX luxury SUV was first released it was highly controversial to many in the auto industry because no one thought a luxury brand buyer would deign to drive anything with a 4-cylinder engine. Now, the 2.3 liter 240 horsepower/260 lb. feet of torque turbocharged 4-cylinder in the 2012 Acura RDX may not run on the sound of silence like a Lexus RX350 but it has a sporty sounding engine note and very VW GTI-like feel to the power delivery. There is but a hint of turbo lag but don’t be surprised if the 2012 Acura RDX tricks you into forgetting you are driving an SUV and just bought a tall hot hatch. Sort of like a Subaru Impreza WRX Outback, if such a vehicle existed.

Hey, why give up your turbo thrills, a steering wheel that actually offers meaty feedback and cornering ability you would think was impossible in an SUV. Well, at least most of them. Now, our tester came equipped with Acura’s SH-AWD system which is unique in that it works in dry weather as well as inclement snow storms due to its ability to shift as much torque as it want to the inner rear wheel as you corner to increase stability and grip.

Now, Acura has a second generation SH-AWD system coming soon and after a test of the technology recently in Japan we can safely say that it will send lots of car companies back to the drawing board. The current 2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD is noticeable mainly when you come to the limits of adhesion and steering control whereas with the next generation SH-AWD, you can drive like an idiot hooligan at a St. Patrick’s Day Parade and no one will ever know. Do be aware that the second generation SH-AWD system has not been confirmed for the 2013 Acura RDX but eventually it should roll out across most of Acura’s model lineup.

2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD: Final Thoughts

Fast forward a few years and Audi relies heavily on the use of turbocharged 4-cylinder engines like the one that is the heart and soul of the 2012 Acura RDX’s character. Even the golden sacred cow of luxury sport sedan (the BMW 3-Series, of course) will have a 4-cylinder engine introduced along with its upcoming redesign. Yes, if you’ve seen the pictures and were thrown off a bit, the 2013 BMW 3-Series is, in fact, new. Apparently, however, the exterior design department at BMW was not notified of the impending redesign and was therefore utterly uninvolved.

Admittedly, the upcoming 2013 Acura RDX looks suspiciously like an MDX that was left in the dryer for too long but you must admit the design is a hit with the buying public. It’s odd, though, that Acura decided to ditch the two things that made the RDX so unique the first time around which was its now oft-copied turbo 4-cylinder concept and also that oddly endearing square hot hatch on stilts stance that helped it stand out in the parking lot of Costco.

But then look at it this way, you now have three choices when it comes to buying an Acura RDX. You can buy a certified pre-owned last generation RDX from an Acura dealer; buy one of these last remaining new 2012 RDX models or hold out for the more homogeneous looking 2013 RDX which will no doubt sell better than any candy mixing peanut butter with chocolate. The 2012 RDX was an SUV that was good due to its unique flavors that you would never expect to work together—kind of like eating fried chicken with waffles which we can assure you is a life altering experience in food mixing.

But no matter which RDX you go for, the fact that Acura has made the first and generation models so unique and dissimilar from its peers proves that there is more than one way to build a successful compact luxury SUV. Someone had better run out to tell the Infiniti FX35 about all of this, however. An SUV, no matter what the price, still needs to offer more cargo room than a 1975 Ford Pinto.

What We Love About the 2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD

Styling Divides Option

Huge Cargo Area is Usefully Square and is Large with Second Row Seats Folded Flat

Affordably Priced Even with SH-AWD

Comes With Every Luxury Feature You Could Want

Huge Cubby Holes in front doors and Deep Center Console

Engine is Characterful, Fast and Makes Fun Noises

Terrifically Secure Handling and Taut Steering Feel

An IIHS "Top Safety Pick"

What We Loathe About the 2012 Acura RDX SH-AWD

Just So-So Fuel Economy

No Purpose Built Overhead Sunglass Holder

Dashboard Feels a Bit Close to Driver and Front Passenger’s Knees

Styling Divides Opinion