Flash Drive

2016 Acura RDX

August 20, 2015 - Featured, Flash Drive - Comments: 
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2016 Acura RDX is updated. The rear window profile resembles other Acura/Honda sport utility vehicles.
2016 Acura RDX is updated. The rear window profile resembles other Acura/Honda sport utility vehicles.

Model Tested: 2016 Acura RDX AWD

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6 gas, 279 horsepower 252 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 19/City—28/Highway—22/Combined

Base Price: $43,420

As Tested: $44,340

Performance:
Strong, smooth engine with expected Acura precision
6-speed transmission has paddle shifters
Sequential Sport Shift
Nicely balanced electronic power steering

Fair fuel economy, we averaged 20 mpg

2016 Acura RDX 3.5-L V-6 engine is smooth and powerful.
2016 Acura RDX 3.5-L V-6 engine is smooth and powerful.

Pleasant highway ride
Competent off road capabilities
Good size for city parking
Great safety/traffic systems

Comfort:
High quality interior materials
Excellent driver legroom
OK rear seat legroom with front seats all back
Almost no floor hump
Four overhead grab handles
Excellent headroom
Three temp heated and cooled front seats
Thick, contoured steering wheel
Huge number of auxiliary controls on wheel

2016 Acura RDX interior features quality materials. Front seats are heated and cooled as part of the Advance Package.
2016 Acura RDX interior features quality materials. Front seats are heated and cooled as part of the Advance Package.

Two info/navigation screens

Utility:
Power tailgate
Wide rear hatch opening
Flat cargo floor
Split, folding rear seats have noticeable slope
Medium size console bin
Two seatback pouches
Small front door bins
Small rear door bins

Wow Factors:
Lots of latest technology safety features
Solid, high quality construction
Comfortable seats
Comprehensive music/info/navigation systems

RDX cargo space is good, but there is a slope after the rear seats are folded down.
RDX cargo space is good, but there is a slope after the rear seats are folded down.

Whines:
No dedicated 4×4 controls
Projector headlamps a little odd looking
Odd “V” shaped front door bins

Bottom Line:
The 2016 Acura RDX AWD was nicely updated from the previous model. It’s more powerful and loaded with state-of-the-art safety features. As a crossover SUV it’s more car-like than truck, which is a good thing. The RDX isn’t exciting, but it does everything expected very well.