2018 Acura RDX

Where sense takes over for sensationalism, you’ll find the RDX waiting- Motor1

The Acura RDX is based on the Honda CR-V platform except it has a more upscale interior, more powerful V6 engine, and more features. The 2018 model year is the end of an era for this popular compact premium crossover as a new RDX will likely come sometime next year with notable changes on the exterior and under the hood. Therefore, this SUV represents the last of its reliable design. 

Also, it boasts the lowest ownership costs compared to its class rivals. The true cost to own it is $8,830 including various costs such as fuel, repair, maintenance, depreciation, etc., while its efficient engine helps to achieve an average cost of $0.64 per mile. In terms of reliability, the RDX scored 78 out of 100, which is below average than some of its rivals but has a strong resale value. 

The 2017 RDX includes a long list of standard technology features- Carfax

The Acura RDX is a bit different when it comes to trims. Unlike its rivals, it is available in just one trim but can be upgraded with three optional packages. These are AcuraWacth Plus, Technology, and Advance packages. Pricing starts from $36,000 for the base model and when equipped with the Advance Package, the price tag reaches $44,200. 

An AWD system is available on all trims and costs an extra $1,500. With regards to features, the RDX offers a decent list of them. The RDX also offers few accessories like roof rails, wheel designs, etc. Even when fully loaded with all the packages and accessories, the RDX costs less than many of its rivals and is a true value for money. 

Packages	Standard	AcuraWatch Plus	Technology	AcuraWatch Plus and Technology	Advance
MSRP (FWD)	$36,000	$37,300	$39,700	$41,000	$42,700
MSRP (AWD)	$37,500	$38,800	$41,200	$42,500	$44,200
Key Features	7-inch display	Adds/ Upgrades to Base trim	Adds/ Upgrades to Base trim	Adds/ Upgrades to Base trim	Adds/ Upgrades to Base trim
	10-way power driver's seat with two memory setting	Collision Mitigation Braking System	GPS-Linked Climate Control	All the features of the Technology & AcuraWatch package	Ventilated front seats
	Heated leatherette front seats	Lane Departure Warning	8-inch display		Remote engine start
	Power liftgate	Lane Keeping Assist	10-speaker ELS studio sound system		Auto-dimming side mirrors
	Dual-zone automatic climate control	Automatic Emergency Braking	Leather sport seats		18-inch alloy wheels
	7-speaker audio system	Adaptive Cruise Control	Voice recognition		Fog lights
	Multi-angle rearview camera	Forward Collision Warning	Navigation system		Rain-sensing windshield wipers
	LED headlights & taillights		Blind Spot Monitoring		Front & rear parking sensors
			Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

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The RDX with the AcuraWatch Plus and Technology packages is the best option as this model is a good combination of comfort and technological features. Moreover, with so many features equipped, it costs less than its lass rivals. It adds an array of features such as an 8-inch display. navigation system with voice recognition, 10-speaker sound system, leather sport seats, GPS-linked climate control, and all the top driver assistance features. 

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Acceleration from the V6 is quiet and strong, with the 6-speed automatic transmission gliding smoothly through its gears- Autotrader

2018 Acura RDX Engine and Transmission

The Acura RDX is powered by just one engine which is a 3.5L V6 engine that is good enough to generate 279 hp and 252 lb-ft. of torque. A 6-speed automatic is the only transmission available for the RDX. Also, it is one of the fewer FWD entries in the segment while an AWD system can be added to any model for an additional $1,500. 

While many of its rivals house a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it's good to see that the RDX still sticks to the V6. The gearbox works so nicely and responds quickly to the gear changes. The shifts are predictable and when you put it with a velvety smooth V6 engine, it just has a very nice power curve. The power delivery and throttle response of the V6 is really good. 

Models	2018 Acura RDX	2018 Lexus NX 300	2018 Volvo XC60	2018 BMW X3
MSRP	$36,000	$35,985	$41,500	$42,650
Engine	3.5L V6	2.0L Turbo Inline-4	2.0L Turbo Inline-4	2.0L Turbo Inline-4
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	AWD	AWD
Transmission	6-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic
Power	279 hp @ 6,200 RPM	235 hp @ 4,800 RPM	250 hp @ 5,500 RPM	248 hp @ 5,200 RPM
Torque	252 lb-ft. @ 4,900 RPM	258 lb-ft. @ 1,650 RPM	258 lb-ft. @ 1,500 RPM	258 lb-ft. @ 1,450 RPM

The RDX is one of the most powerful entries in this segment. Both the Volvo XC60 and the BMW X3 come standard with an AWD system and both stand on similar power levels. The Lexus NX 300 is the least powerful vehicle in this competition and is an FWD car like the RDX. 

2018 Acura RDX Acceleration

Speed lovers will definitely love the Acura RDX as it delivers it without any hesitation. It sprints from 0-60 MPH in 6.2 seconds and further, completes the quarter-mile test in flat 14 seconds. Compared to its class rivals, the RDX has one of the best performance stats thanks to its low curb weight and powerful engine. 

Floor the pedal and you can feel all the power rushing to the wheels. On a highway, the RDX easily overtakes other vehicles and doesn't feel underpowered at all. When you pop it into Sport mode, the RDX gets a stronger throttle response from a stop. However, with a new engine coming next year, this is the last year one could enjoy the power of a V6. 

Models	2018 Acura RDX	2018 Lexus NX 300	2018 Volvo XC60	2018 BMW X3
0-60 MPH	6.2 sec	7.2 sec	7.0 sec	6.8 sec
Quarter Mile	14.0 sec	15.7 sec	16.0 sec	15.1 sec
Engine	3.5L	2.0L	2.0L	2.0L
Top Speed	149 MPH	124 MPH	137 MPH	130 MPH

The powerful engine of the RDX helps to achieve the best acceleration in this competition. The closest to it is the BMW X3 with decent acceleration. The Volvo XC60 is the slowest vehicle in the long run. The least powerful Lexus NX 300 is the slowest contender in this competition but somehow struggles to overtake the XC60 in the quarter-mile run. 

2018 Acura RDX Ride and Handling

The Acura RDX is just a joy to drive. When it comes to handling, the RDX is very MW-lie in its sharpness and precision. It has a nice sharp chassis that offers good handling characteristics. When you throw it at a corner, the RDX doesn't understeer a lot and the body roll is well controlled. The steering is precise and has a nice feel to it. 

The RDX is too stiff to have a nice sporty ride character but not so much that it beats you to death over bumps. It's not harsh at all and that's always a good thing for a crossover SUV. The RDX also doesn't feel unsettled on a gravel road, which is pretty impressive. Overall, the RDX draws a line between comfort and muscularity. 

2018 Acura RDX Braking

The brakes in the Acura RDX measure 12.3 inches in the front wheels and 12 inches at the back, both ventilated discs. However, these brakes are not up to mark in terms of performance. During the brake test, the RDX managed to stop from 60-0 MPH in 122 feet, which is average for this segment. 

Its competitors take a shorter braking distance than the RDX despite being heavier. The stopping power is not that great and the braking action feels a bit delayed. The brakes fade a lot under stress but the pedal feels firm and responsive. The RDX also comes with automatic emergency braking that improves the stopping power of the brakes. 

Models	2018 Acura RDX	2018 Lexus NX 300	2018 Volvo XC60	2018 BMW X3
Brake Front	12.3 in	11.7 in	12.9 in	13.7 in
Brake Rear	12.0 in	11.2 in	11.9 in	13.5 in
Curb Weight	3,737 lbs	3,940 lbs	4,092 lbs	4,156 lbs
60-0 MPH (ft.)	122 ft.	116 ft.	118 ft.	123 ft.

The Lexus NX 300 proves its worth in this section by taking the shortest braking distance. The heavier Volvo XC60 was also able to achieve a shorter braking distance than the RDX. The braking performance of the BMW X3 is way better than the RDX though it takes a similar braking distance. That's because it has a heavy curb weight. 

2018 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

Towing is really not advisable in the Acura RDX with a rating of only 1,500 pounds. This is the lowest rating for a crossover SUV in its segment. But with 1,500 pounds, you can tow a boat or an ATV. Therefore, if you plan on towing heavy loads, the RDX may not be the right choice of vehicle. 

Models	2018 Acura RDX	2018 Lexus NX 300	2018 Volvo XC60	2018 BMW X3
Towing Capacity	1,500 lbs	2,000 lbs	3,500 lbs	4,400 lbs

The BMW X3 impresses with its extraordinary towing capacity. The Volvo XC60 comes in second with 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. The Lexus NX 300 also manages to offer slightly better-towing capacity than the RDX, leaving behind the RDX to the last place. Therefore, people who want to tow big trailers should go for the X3. 

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In real-world driving the V-6 isn't as thirsty as you might think- The Car Connection

Although the Acura RDX houses a V6 engine, the fuel economy is pretty good as it features cylinder deactivation technology that shuts off cylinders when not needed. In FWD form, the RDX returns 20 MPG in the city, 28 MPG on a highway, and 23 MPG combined. Opting for the AWD system sees a decrease in combined mileage by 1 MPG. 

A 16-gallon fuel tank capacity is fitted in the RDX, which is typical for this class. It delivers a combined range of 384 miles, which is comparatively less than its rivals while the AWD version settles for 368 miles. A larger fuel tank would have been great for the RDX but a small fuel tank means regular visits to the gas station while traveling interstates. 

Models	2018 Acura RDX	2018 Lexus NX 300	2018 Volvo XC60	2018 BMW X3
MPG (City)	20	22	23	22
MPG (Highway)	28	28	30	29
MPG (Combined)	23	24	26	25
Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallon)	16.0	15.9	18.5	17.2
Range (City/Highway/Combined; Miles)	320/448/384	350/445/397	426/555/490	378/499/438

The Lexus NX 300 has the best fuel economy as it makes the least power among its rivals. For the power it makes, the RDX's fuel economy is really impressive. The BMW X3's efficiency is better than the Volvo XC60 but the latter's large fuel tank results in the best driving rage in this competition. 

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The backseat offers more legroom than most competitors- Edmunds

2018 Acura RDX Seating and Comfort

The cabin of the Acura RDX is casually luxurious and not as serious and formal as the German rivals. But behind the steering wheel, it will strike you how well it is designed. Leatherette seats are standard but leather sport seats are available from the Technology model onwards. The front seats are very comfortable and get power adjustability and heated functions as standard. The top-end Advanced trim gets ventilated front seats. 

The rear passengers are going to be very comfortable because the cushions aren't high enough so you won't keep your knees high. There is plenty of head and legroom at the back. Also, the shoulder room provided is wide enough to accommodate three adults at the back. You also get a fold-down armrest with the cupholders at the back. However, the RDX does not offer heated rear seats and reclining back adjustments. 

Models	2018 Acura RDX	2018 Lexus NX 300	2018 Volvo XC60	2018 BMW X3
Passenger Capacity	5	5	5	5
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	38.7/58.7/42.0	37.4/57.3/42.8	38.0/56.7/41.2	41.157.6/40.3
Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)	38.1/57.2/38.3	38.0/55.3/36.1	38.1/55.2/36.4	39.1/56.0/36.4

The Lexus NX 300 and the Volvo XC60 offer similar levels of space in the rear row but the former feels more spacious slightly more spacious. On the other hand, the X3's cabin feels more luxurious but has less legroom than the RDX. Even the NX 300 and the XC60's rear rows are less spacious. 

2018 Acura RDX Infotainment System

Only the base model gets one screen that measures 5 inches in size while the other models come with a dual-screen setup. The top screen is an 8-inch non-touchscreen while the bottom screen is a 7-inch touchscreen and all the audio settings can be controlled through this display. The buttons and the rotary dial below this screen are used to control the top screen. The top screen is basically reserved for the navigation system that looks dated.

You can also display audio on the top screen but it has to be controlled using the bottom screen. There is still no Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on board in this system. The gauges have the typical Acura which is to say classy but not high-tech. While the lower trims get a 7-speaker sound system, the Technology models and above get a 10-speaker ELS sound system that has a satisfying sound quality. 

2018 Acura RDX Interior Features

Some main features of the RDX's cabin are given below:

• Tilt & telescopic multi-function leather steering wheel
• Power front seats with heated & ventilated functions
• Leatherette & leather upholstery
• Moonroof
• Remote engine start
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• 7 & 8-inch infotainment display
• 7 & 10-speaker sound system
• Voice recognition for audio & climate controls

2018 Acura RDX Cargo Space

The Acura RDX provides a dedicated cargo space of 26.1 cubic feet, which is pretty decent for the class. The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split and they do so in an easy manner with quick-release levers. Once folded, you will see 61.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which is among the best in the segment.  However, they don't fold flat entirely, though it's good that you don't have to fold the headrests.  

Under the load floor, you will also find a spare tire, which is a good touch as many vehicles are eliminating it. The leftover height of the RDX is a bit high but its flat loading lip is an added advantage while loading items into the cargo area. Speaking of interior storage, the front cubby is large enough to keep a small tablet. The glovebox is large enough to keep your important things while the door pockets can hold your water bottles. 

Models	2018 Acura RDX	2018 Lexus NX 300	2018 Volvo XC60	2018 BMW X3
Cargo Capacity (cu-ft.)	26.1	17.7	30.8	28.7

The Volvo XC60 offers the best cargo space in both worlds i.e. with the rear seats up and with them folded. Even the BMW X3 offers slightly more space than the RDX. On the flip side, the Lexus NX 300 offers one of the least cargo capacities in its segment. Therefore, the RDX stands strong with its cargo offering in the segment. 

Acura has gone through several iterations of its “beak” front fascia, none of which have really worked. The RDX wears the look better than the brand’s sedans have and we like the way its five-square LED headlights are integrated. It’s not a double-take kind of look, but the RDX is largely inoffensive. If you want a little more flash, opt for the Technology Package with its machine-finished 18s. TheCarConnection  

2018 Acura RDX Dimension and Weight

There are no styling upgrades available for the Acura RDX this year but a full redesign is scheduled for the coming model year. Upfront, you still get the older Acura's beak-style grille. Its jewel-eye LED headlights match with its bigger sibling, the MDX. Down below, you'll find fog lights only on the Advanced model. As far as ground clearance goes, its 8.1 inches is pretty impressive to the class. 

For wheels, the 18-inch alloys are standard but the Advanced model stands out with machine-finished alloys that give a distinct look. The RDX has a short wheelbase that measures 105.7 inches but its cabin is way more spacious than its rivals. Around the back, the taillights are LED and mimic the layered look of the headlights. Unlike some of the recent Acuras, the exhausts are hidden behind the bumper. 

Models	2018 Acura RDX	2018 Lexus NX 300	2018 Volvo XC60	2018 BMW X3
Curb Weight (lbs)	3,737	3,940	4,092	4,156
Length (in)	184.4	182.3	182.8	185.9
Width (in)	73.7	73.6	74.4	74.4
Height (in)	65.0	64.8	67.4	66.0
Ground Clearance (in)	8.1	6.9	9.1	8.0
Wheelbase (in)	105.7	104.7	109.2	112.8
Track Width (in) F/R	63.1/63.4	61.8/62.2	64.3/62.4	63.0/63.6

The BMW X3 has the widest wheelbase in this competition. It's around 7 inches more than the RDX. Although it's not that spacious, it helps to offer stable and composed handling. The high ground clearance of the Volvo XC60 doesn't mean it's an off-roader. But, it will come in handy while riding over high bumps. At 182.3 inches, the Lexus NX 300 is the shortest car in this competition. This will help the drivers maneuver easily at tight parking spots. 

2018 Acura RDX Exterior Features 

• LED headlights, taillights & DRLs
• Front fog lights
• Manual-folding auto-dimming exterior mirrors
• 18-inch aluminum wheels
• Chrome grille
• Rear roofline spoiler
• Chrome window trim

The Acura RDX received a perfect 5-star overall safety rating for its performance in all crash tests. It also scored 5 stars in the frontal and side-impact crash tests while the rollover crash test received 4 stars. Overall, these safety ratings are impressive. The detailed NHTSA ratings are given below:

NHSTA Rating

Overall Rating	5 stars
Overall Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	5 stars
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating Driver	5 stars
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating Passenger	5 stars
Overall Side Crash Rating	5 stars
Overall Side Barrier Rating	5 stars
Side Barrier Rating Driver	5 stars
Side Barrier Rating Passenger Rear Seat	5 stars
Side Pole Rating Driver Front Seat	5 stars
Combined Side Rating Front Seat	5 stars
Rollover Rating	4 stars

Moreover, the RDX won the Top Safety Pick award for its excellent crashworthiness. It received 'Good' ratings in almost all crash tests. The models with the Advance package are rated 'Superior' for their front crash prevention while the headlights were rated 'Acceptable'. Check out the ratings below:

IIHS Rating

Crashworthiness
Small overlap front Driver-side	Good
Small overlap front Passenger side	N/A
Moderate overlap front Driver-side	Good
Side	Good
Roof Strength	Good
Head Restraints & Seats	Good
Front Crash Prevention	Superior
Headlights	Acceptable
Child Seat Anchor (LATCH) Ease Of Use	Acceptable

All these great crash-test scores prove that the RDX is a safe vehicle. Also, the SUV comes loaded with a decent list of driver assistance features. Though the base model lacks active safety features, the rest of the trims add them. The eight airbags in the RDX also add to the safety aspect of the vehicle. 

The safety features available in the RDX are mentioned below:

• Rearview Camera
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane Keep Assist
• Front & Rear Parking Sensors

2018 Acura RDX vs 2018 BMW X3

Starting at $42,650, the BMW X3 is the most expensive SUV in this class. It makes less power and its overall performance are unmatchable to the RDX but the X3 excels in athletic handling and great towing capacity. On the inside, the X3 offers less rear legroom but its cargo volume is slightly better. Also, its infotainment system is more user-friendly. The X3 is the garner of the Top Safety Pick+ award and hosts a lot of driver aids. 

2018 Acura RDX vs 2018 Volvo XC60

The slightly expensive Volvo XC60 is less powerful than the RDX and therefore, its acceleration is slower. Even its towing capacity is less. But, it prioritizes for a comfortable ride and comes with a standard AWD system while its fuel efficiency is the same as the RDX. Its interior is spacious at the back but its cargo room is really good. In view of safety, the XC60 offers more standard safety features than the RDX. 

2018 Acura RDX vs 2018 Lexus NX 300

The Lexus NX 300 is the least powerful SUV in this competition and obviously, it offers a sluggish acceleration. But, it is the most efficient vehicle here while its towing capacity is somewhat better than the RDX. Its rear row feels cramped while its infotainment setup is difficult to use. Also, its cargo room is one of the least in the class. On the plus side, it offers more standard tech features and driver-assist features than the RDX. 

If you are in the market for a premium utility vehicle and you don't want to bust the back, the 2018 Acura RDX should be at the top of your list. The way this car drives is the main selling point of this vehicle and compared to its rivals, it does offer a lot of value for its low price. Sure, some amenities are missing, such as a panoramic roof and a 360-degree camera but the RDX is truly a combination of quality and value. 

2018 Acura RDX FAQs

Does the Acura RDX have transmission problems?

According to NHTSA, owners had complained that the transmission delays shifts sometimes and also makes loud noises while accelerating. 

Is the Acura RDX reliable?

With a J.D. Power score of 78 out of 100, the Acura RDX's reliability is average for the class. 

Does the 2018 Acura RDX have leather seats?

The Technology models and above get standard leather sport seats.

Does the Acura RDX require premium gas?

No, the Acura RDX can run on regular gas but premium gas is recommended for better performance. 

Is the 2018 Acura RDX turbocharged?

No, the 2018 Acura RDX comes with a 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 engine.