Although the Acura brand is still not as accomplished as its rivals, it still aims to be an affordable choice, offering a lot of value for money with the acclaimed Honda reliability. With the Acura RDX, Honda brings all its reliability and sporty character to the luxury crossover class with a powerful turbocharged engine, an aggressive design inspired from the NSX supercar, and a handsome list of modern features.
2021 Acura RDX Latest Updates
May' 5, 2022 : Top 10 Fastest Acura Cars Of All Time Read More »
Nov' 15, 2021 : Acura Announces 2022 RDX Prices, New Features & Changes Read More »
Acura gave the RDX a complete refresh back in 2019 with a new design, new engine options, and plenty of modern features. With a starting price of $40,400, the Acura RDX is in the crosshairs of other luxury crossovers like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and the Volvo XC60.
2021 Acura RDX SUV front view
2021 Acura RDX SUV rear view
Features
The Acura RDX is available in both FWD and AWD models with three optional packages: Technology, A-Spec, and Advance. The base model gets features like 19-inch alloy wheels, leatherette upholstery, heated sunroof, and a panoramic sunroof.
Opting for the Technology package upgrades the leather upholstery, built-in navigation, 12-speaker stereo, and some safety features like blind-spot monitoring. Customers looking for a more aggressive design can opt for the A-Spec package which includes 20-inch alloy wheels, sport-styled front, and rear bumpers, heated and ventilated sport front seats, and a 16-speaker audio system.
The 2021 Acura RDX Advance package is the most expensive one and adds to the Technology package with features like adaptive dampers, heated steering wheel and rear seats, head-up display, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The new PMC limited edition model includes both the A-Spec and Advance packages along with features like a unique orange paint, 20-inch black wheels, and several gloss-black exterior design elements.
Trim
Base
Technology
A-Spec
Advance
MSRP (FWD)
$38,400
$41,300
$44,300
$46,200
MSRP (AWD)
$40,400
$43,300
$46,300
$48,200
Key Features
19-inch alloy wheels
In addition to or replaces Base trim features with:
In addition to or replaces Technology trim features with:
In addition to or replaces Technology trim features with:
Leatherette upholstery
Premium leather upholstery
20-inch alloy wheels
Adaptive suspension dampers
Heated front seats
GPS-linked climate control system
Sport-styled front and rear bumpers
Heated steering wheel and rear seats
Panoramic moonroof
An upgraded premium 12-speaker audio system
Ventilated front seats
Head-up display
10.2-inch infotainment system with Acura’s true touchpad interface
Built-in navigation
Leather and simulated suede upholstery
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Dual-zone climate control
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
16-speaker audio system
16-speaker audio system
12-way power-adjustable front sports seats
Two charge-only rear USB ports
Black-painted exterior trim
Hands-free liftgate
Which trim should you buy?
Acura RDX models with the optional Technology package offer the best value and include additional features like perforated leather upholstery, built-in navigation, upgraded 12-speaker audio system, and more. Opting for the Super Handling AWD system is also recommended for the added safety and improved handling characteristics.
Engine and Performance
9.0/10
Acura made the 2.0L Turbocharged engine standard on the RDX with the 2019 redesign and is the same one found in the Civic Type-R hatchback. On the 2021
Acura RDX, the engine is detuned to produce 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission which works well during normal driving but tends to get confused during quick maneuvers and overtakes.
The optional Super Handling AWD system adds $2,000 to the base price. The engine sounds particularly sporty at higher revs and will delight enthusiasts, although most of the sound is pumped through the audio system.
2021 Acura RDX SUV driving view
Although the engine offers adequate performance, the lethargic 10-speed gearbox limits acceleration times, taking 6.6 seconds to reach 60 MPH and a hair over 15 seconds to cross the quarter-mile. The top speed is electronically limited to 130 MPH like most crossovers.
Models
2021 Acura RDX
2021 Audi Q5 45 TFSI Premium
2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i
2021 Volvo XC60 D5
MSRP
$38,400
$43,300
$43,000
$41,700
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Inline Four-Cylinder
2.0L Turbocharged Inline Four-Cylinder
2.0L Turbocharged Inline Four-Cylinder
2.0L Turbocharged Inline Four-Cylinder
Drivetrain
FWD
AWD
AWD
FWD
Transmission
10-speed automatic
7-speed dual-clutch automatic
8-speed automatic
8-speed automatic
Power
272 hp @ 6,500 RPM
261 hp @ 5,000 RPM
248 hp @ 5,200 RPM
250 hp @ 5,500 RPM
Torque
280 lb-ft @ 1,600 RPM
273 lb-ft @ 1,600 RPM
258 lb-ft @ 1,450 RPM
258 lb-ft @ 1,500 RPM
0-60 MPH (seconds)
6.6
5.9
6.3
6.4
Quarter-Mile (seconds)
15.1
14.7
14.9
15.5
Top-Speed (MPH)
130
135
134
130
Although all crossovers get 2.0-L turbocharged engines, the Audi Q5 sprints ahead thanks to the quick-shifting DCT gearbox and electric assist. Both the BMW X3 and the Volvo XC60 get a similar setup, taking around 6.3 seconds to reach 60 MPH.
How well does the 2021 Acura RDX handle?
In the handling department, the Acura RDX continues to take inspiration from the NSX supercar and is one of the best handling crossovers to date, especially when equipped with the AWD system. The standard models get a well-tuned suspension setup which can get uncomfortable on bad roads.
The top-end advance package solves the issue by providing adaptive dampers to adjust ride quality. Like most Acuras, the steering is very precise and responds well to quick inputs. The optional AWD system is recommended not only for its ability to get out of tricky situations but also for its improved handling.
Braking Performance
The Acura RDX gets the smallest braking hardware in its class with 12.4-inch rotors at the front and 12.2-inch rotors at the rear. With all the sporty handling and performance, the RDX is let down by its awkward brakes which are inconsistent at times and lack adequate response. Upgraded brakes would’ve done wonders for the RDX considering its low curb weight.
Models
2021 Acura RDX
2021 Audi Q5 45 TFSI Premium
2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i
2021 Volvo XC60 D5
Brake Rotors: Front (inches)
12.4
13.3
13
13.6
Brake Rotors: Rear (inches)
12.2
13
13
12.6
Curb Weight (lbs)
3,783
4,079
3,931
4,008
60-0 MPH (feet)
116
110
123
118
Compared to rivals like the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60, the Acura RDX lacks in the braking performance department despite its low curb weight. It does, however, manage to perform better than the BMW X3 but lacks feel and feedback.
Fuel Economy
7.1/10
The 2021 Acura RDX fuel economy figures are on par with its rivals, and the SUV manages to return 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highways. Because of the smaller 17.1-gallon fuel tank, the highway range dips below the 500-mile mark at just 479 miles. Opting for the SH-AWD system cuts down the ratings by 1 MPG. Unfortunately, the Acura RDX doesn’t get any hybrid powertrains, unlike its rivals.
Models
2021 Acura RDX
2021 Audi Q5 45 TFSI Premium
2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i
2021 Volvo XC60 D5
MPG (City)
22
23
25
22
MPG (Highway)
28
28
29
29
MPG (Combined)
24
25
27
25
Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallons)
17.1
18.5
17.2
18.8
Range (City/Highway/Combined; Miles)
376/479/410
425/518/462
430/499/464
413/545/470
Rivals like the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60 are more efficient on the highway and offer a better highway range compared to the Acura RDX. The Audi Q5 is on par with the RDX in terms of efficiency. The BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Volvo XC60 offer an optional hybrid powertrain for improved efficiency.
Interior
8.0/10
The 2021 Acura RDX interior is well packaged, and 5 adults can sit in comfort. Like most crossovers, the RDX offers plenty of cargo capacity which can be further expanded by folding the rear seats flat. With all the seats folded down, the RDX offers up to 79.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Acura has also provided plenty of storage spaces inside the cabin. The center console storage deserves special mention, with plenty of space on offer thanks to the absence of switchgear.
2021 Acura RDX SUV front seats
The oddly shaped A/C vents and unique layered dashboard design is lifted straight from the NSX supercar. Features like ambient lighting and high-quality soft-touch materials, make the cabin feel a lot more luxurious than run-of-the-mill crossovers. The A-Spec package adds red sports seats and several red accents inside the cabin. Like most Acura vehicles, the RDX gets a unique dashboard layout that may seem complicated at first but easy to get used to.
2021 Acura RDX SUV rear seats
Models
2021 Acura RDX
2021 Audi Q5 45 TFSI Premium
2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i
2021 Volvo XC60 D5
Seating Capacity
5
5
5
5
Front Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Legroom; inches)
40.0/60.0/42.0
39.6/57.7/40.9
41.1/57.6/40.3
38/58.2/41.5
Rear Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Legroom; inches)
38.0/57.0/38.0
39.3/56.5/38
39.1/56/36.4
38/56.3/38
Trunk Capacity (cubic feet)
29.5
25.9
28.7
17.8
In terms of interior space and practicality, the Acura RDX is easily the most spacious crossover both in terms of passenger and cargo space. The Volvo XC60 takes the second spot, but only offers limited cargo capacity. Both the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 are slightly less spacious compared to rivals.
Some notable interior features include the following:
16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation
10.5-inch head-up display
GPS-linked climate control system
Panoramic moonroof
Heated steering wheel and rear seats
Hands-free liftgate
What’s there to keep you entertained?
The 2021 Acura RDX comes as standard with a 10.2-inch infotainment system that sits at the top and away from the passengers. The system is controlled through a well-placed touchpad under the gear selector and gets shortcut buttons for home, back, and menus for quick access. Although the system takes a while to get used to, it is easy to use on the move with slick controls and a well-laid-out interface. Some lag does find its way through when shuffling menus, but it remains slick for the most part.
All the regular features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, mobile hotspot, Siri eyes-free, SiriusXM satellite and HD radio, Bluetooth, and a lot more are included as standard. Higher trims also get built-in navigation. AcuraLink is also included with features like remote starting, security alarm alert, Amazon Alexa integration, personal concierge, and key by Amazon for in-car delivery. The optional 16-speaker audio system from ELS studio includes 4 speakers in the ceiling and a massive 710 watts of total output power, creating an excellent soundstage.
Some of the highlights of the infotainment system include the following:
Acura hasn’t messed about with the styling, and the 2021 RDX continues to be a handsome crossover with bold character lines, the signature Acura five-point grille with a huge badge, and sleek LED headlights. Acura has toned down the rugged looks with black cladding only on the bumpers and sides. Flared wheel arches improve the stance and accommodate the large 19-inch wheels perfectly.
The A-Spec package injects even more sportiness with sport-style front and rear bumpers, and bigger 20-inch alloy wheels. Overall, the RDX is a handsome crossover that looks as sporty as its performance suggests.
Models
2021 Acura RDX
2021 Audi Q5 45 TFSI Premium
2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i
2021 Volvo XC60 D5
Curb Weight (lbs)
3,783
4,079
3,931
4,008
Length (inches)
186.7
184.3
185.9
184.6
Width (inches)
74.8
74.5
74.4
74.9
Height (inches)
65.7
65.5
66
65.3
Ground Clearance (inches)
5.7
N/A
7.2
8.5
Wheelbase (inches)
108.3
111
112.8
112.8
The new limited edition PMC model gets an exclusive thermal orange pearl paint with matching stitching on the inside, black 20-inch wheels, orange grille surround, black chrome exhaust tips, and several gloss-black exterior accents.
The Acura RDX looks a lot more compact than its rivals but is actually bigger in all directions. Both the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60 are smaller than the RDX, while the BMW X3 is similar dimensionally.
The Acura RDX is based on a unique platform that is more rigid thanks to the liberal use of high-strength steel which makes up more than half of the chassis. Acura’s ACE body structure is also employed here which transfers crash energy away from the passenger compartment. The structure is further improved with laser welding and hot stamping. In the NHTSA safety tests, the RDX received a full 5-star overall rating. It also did well in the IIHS tests, securing a “Good” rating in most sections along with the “Top Safety Pick+” award.
The RDX is loaded with plenty of active safety features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, road departure mitigation, and more as standard. Higher trims also get features like rain-sensing windshield wipers, surround-view parking camera, parking sensors at both ends, blind-spot monitoring, and rear-cross traffic alert. The optional head-up display also displays alerts.
Some standard safety features include the following:
Adaptive cruise control
Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking
Lane keep assist
Road departure mitigation
Lane departure warning
Automatic high-beam headlights
Rearview camera
Competition
9.0/10
2021 Acura RDX vs 2021 Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 has always been one of the most accomplished mid-size luxury crossovers in the market with plenty of powertrain options, an opulent interior, and a comfortable ride. Compared to the Q5, the Acura RDX is a lot more affordable and offers excellent handling characteristics.
2021 Audi Q5
The RDX also looks a lot more modern with its sporty and bold design. As an overall package, the Audi Q5 is still the better option if you’ve got extra cash to spare.
2021 Acura RDX vs 2021 BMW X3
The Acura RDX has come a long way over the years, and the current model is capable enough to match or even dethrone the BMW X3 in terms of performance and driving dynamics. However, the RDX is limited to just one engine option while the BMW X3 offers plenty including an efficient hybrid model. The X3 is also a lot more expensive than the Acura RDX, reducing its overall value. If you’re looking purely at driving experience on a budget, the Acura RDX is the better option.
2021 BMW X3
2021 Acura RDX vs 2021 Volvo XC60
Volvo has always concentrated on ride quality and comfort above all else, and the XC60 continues that trend. Compared to the RDX, the Volvo XC60 offers a more comfortable ride and a spacious interior. But, in terms of sheer value and driving dynamics, the Acura RDX easily takes the win thanks to its well-sorted chassis and lower price tag.
2021 Volvo XC60
Final Verdict
8.0/10
Although there are no significant updates for 2021, the RDX continues to be one of the best luxury crossovers in the market with its sporty styling and capable drivetrain. It offers great value with a low starting price without compromising on features and also looks the part.
The optional AWD system improves handling significantly over the standard model and is not just a tool to get out of tricky situations. On the flip side, the lethargic transmission and unintuitive infotainment system are still not as sorted as its rivals. The 2021 Acura RDX is an excellent choice for buyers looking for a stylish and fun-to-drive crossover that offers plenty of value.
Features
Trim: 4dr SUV w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
4dr SUV w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
4dr SUV w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
SH-AWD PMC Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 10A)
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
Crappy all wheel drive system. Although the Acura RDX is an ideal vehicle for comfort and luxury, it has a lot of flaws. The AWD system is really shitty, The FWD stopped working for some reason. The Dual infotainment screen is confusing to use. The screen on the top feels laggy when compared to the one below. The audio system, on the other hand, is not very clear at higher volumes. I am not...
Highly recommended. This automobile appealed to me since it is quiet, has fantastic acceleration, is pleasant to drive, has a high safety rating, and has cutting-edge safety systems. But its reputation for dependability was something that made me buy this vehicle. The best part about it is its sound systems, I thoroughly enjoyed it while going for big vacation driving journeys. Plus, it's smaller...
Technology and AcuraWatch Plus Packages 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
6
User Overall Rating
Posted On: April 11, 2022
Zero fun factor
Pros - Build quality, comfort, Control layout.
Cons - Underpowered, Boring dynamics.
Snug fit of components What I like about the RDX is the way things are put together in this car. All the controls are well within reach and the engine shows no signs of stress no matter how I drive it but unfortunately, the engine feels a bit dull in terms of the power and the car isn't any exciting to drive These guys are skilled and hold a lot of knowledge about the cars
