AcuraRDX

　　

2024 Acura RDX Review

byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　The RDX is Acura's two-row small luxury SUV. It's a model worth checking out if you're wanting an SUV that's more luxurious and upscale than typical mainstream brand picks but not quite as expensive as rival luxury SUVs from Europe. It's a bit of a tweener in that regard, but we don't mean that negatively. The RDX's popularity and sales speak for themselves, as does its striking exterior styling. While changes to last year's model were fairly minor, Acura has made all-wheel drive standard for all 2024 RDX trim levels.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Acura RDX 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$199/mo  for RDX Base

　　RDX Base

　　4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) - $44,350 MSRP4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) (Most Popular) - $47,000 MSRP4dr SUV AWD w/A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) - $50,000 MSRP4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) - $52,150 MSRP4dr SUV AWD w/A-Spec and Advance Packages (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) - $54,150 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

zzdcar spotlight: Value for the money

Many luxury SUVs have a similar baseline for standard equipment. But once you start adding the features that you really want, the prices can quickly escalate beyond your budget. That's where the Acura RDX comes in. From the get-go it offers a pretty compelling list of amenities such as a panoramic sunroof and heated seats. And if you want to add on some desirable optional equipment, like a superb sound system and ventilated seats, Acura makes it relatively affordable to do so.

　　

Competitors to consider

Nearly every luxury brand offers a take on the compact SUV. The BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC are popular picks thanks to their premium cabins and strong performance, while the Genesis GV70 and Volvo XC60 offer stylish alternative takes. When equipped with many of the same tech and luxury features, the RDX can undercut many of its rivals on price. The main drawback is that you can't get a more powerful engine like you can on those other models. Check out our test team's Expert Rating below to learn more about the 2024 RDX's hits and misses.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.9

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　How does the RDX drive? Overall, the RDX is a solid performer. Its turbocharged engine provides strong power at low rpm to get you away from stoplights quickly, and the transmission is adept at picking the right gear for the situation. In zzdcar' testing, we recorded a 0-60 mph time of 6.7 seconds. That's a little slower than some other top competitors, but it's respectable. The brakes inspire confidence thanks to their predictable engagement and good feel.

　　When you drive around turns, there's not much body roll. You'll definitely want all-wheel drive (dubbed SH-AWD) to maximize the RDX's sporting potential since it helps the RDX power out of turns. The steering is nicely tuned. It's light and makes for easy maneuvering in parking lots, but it also firms up appropriately at higher speeds to give you a feeling of control.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the RDX? The stylish heated and cooled front seats will accommodate a wide variety of drivers in comfort. They're also supportive to keep you secure when turning. The suspension does a respectable job of keeping you comfortable when driving over a variety of surfaces. The RDX shrugs off potholes and is well controlled over highway undulations.

　　Cabin noise is reasonably well muted, and there's minimal wind noise at freeway speeds. Some engine noise comes through, but it's never obnoxious. The climate control system doesn't have any issues regulating cabin temperature, but a lot of airflow is aimed at the driver's hands, which you may not like.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below