In the world of premium crossovers, the RDX stands for a reasonable choice. It’s not the most luxurious model in the class, but its affordable price and a full load of strong points make it one of the best choices around, especially after the recent updates. The 2022 model comes with a lot of novelties, starting from a new styling. Furthermore, the list of standard equipment is longer, while the company also did some tweaks to drive modes, to make them more usable. Considering all these updates, as well as the fact that the current generation has been around for just three years, it’s quite obvious that the next year’s model won’t bring bigger novelties.
This means that you may count on familiar pros and cons this crossover offers. When it comes to things we like, a long list of tech and safety features comes to mind first, as well as pretty engaging handling (especially with the SH-AWD system). Furthermore, the cabin is spacious and comfortable. Also, we really like the turbo-four engine, which feels a little bit peppier compared to most entry-level rivals.
On the other hand, the main complaint goes to the infotainment system, which is quite difficult to use. Also, we would definitely like to see a more powerful powertrain on the offer.
2023 Acura RDX Design
As we’ve just mentioned, the current generation has been around since 2018. It shares a lot with the outgoing CR-V and we think it’s still pretty fresh and competitive, especially after the recent facelift. The 2022 update has brought a lot of interesting novelties. Of course, styling is the first thing that comes to mind. The new model comes with a new grille design, as well as with a new front bumper, which features bigger and more aggressive air intakes. The rear end came with a new rear bumper, while there are also new exhaust pipes.
The rest of the car remained the same, though we should mention a couple of new color options. Those are Liquid Carbon Metallic and Phantom Violet Pearl. So, we wouldn’t exclude the possibility to see a few more new colors in the 2023 RDX.
On the other hand, the mechanical aspect definitely won’t change. Yes, the company did a few tweaks to drive modes, but the rest of the car is pretty much the same as the initial 2019 model. That’s not a bad thing at all, considering that the driving experience is pretty good. The comfort is on a pretty decent level, even though we are talking about a crossover that’s much more about athleticism. The suspension setup is really good and there is almost no body roll. Also, the optional SH-AWD system works great and makes the RDX a quite serious performer.
Interior
The interior design is both good and bad, depending on how you look at it. On one side, the materials and overall build quality are okay, though definitely not as good as you would expect from a model that competes with Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and similar models. Still, the quality is far from bad and there’s no doubt that we are talking about a genuine premium crossover.
What we really like about this crossover is the driving position, which is excellent. The only minor drawback is that a few controls are in a little bit odd position. The visibility is good in most directions, while the front seats offer very good side support. The second row is also quite spacious and accommodates adults with ease.
Behind the rear seats, you will find nearly 30 cubic feet of cargo space, while the total volume goes up to 59 cubes. That’s above-average for the segment of compact luxury SUVs.
Trim Levels
Of course, the 2023 Acura RDX could come with a couple of novelties regarding standard equipment but most of the things should remain the same. We definitely don’t expect changes in terms of trim-level organization.
Therefore, the offer will start with the base trim, which is simply called MDX. This model already comes with a pretty generous list of standard equipment. Some of the highlights are things like 19-inch wheels, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, simulated leather upholstery, 10.2-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 9-speaker audio system, Wi-Fi hotspot, panoramic sunroof etc. Safety features like adaptive cruise control forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring and lane keep assisting are also standard.
The Technology trim is the first upgrade on the offer. This trim adds several more standard features, such as navigation, leather upholstery, wireless charging, ambient lighting, a 12-speaker audio system etc.
We believe that the A-Spec trim is the most balanced version of the offer. This mid-spec trim comes standard with 20-inch wheels, upgraded exterior, foglights, leather upholstery, ventilated seats and a 16-speaker audio system.
The Advance trim is nearly at the top of the offer. With this model, you can get goodies like adaptive suspension, power-folding mirrors, wood interior accents, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, head-up display, surround-view camera etc.
Finally, there is the PMC Edition, which is mostly about visual upgrades. This one comes with blacked grille, roof, wheels, side mirrors and other parts. Also, it comes in exclusive color options on the offer, while the interior comes with nice exclusive stitching.
2023 Acura RDX Engine
The current model offers very good performance and there is really no need for changes in this aspect. The 2023 Acura RDX will continue with the well-known, turbocharged version of the legendary K20 engine. This particular version features a max output of 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. That’s enough power to move this crossover from zero to sixty in about 7 seconds. The engine feels capable and it is very refined. When it comes to fuel economy, it returns around 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which are typical ratings for the class.
The engine comes coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This gearbox does a very good job, though it can sometimes hesitate with downshifts. Of course, front-wheel drive is standard, while you can also opt for the company’s excellent SH-AWD system.
2023 Acura RDX Release Date and Price
We don’t believe that the 2023 Acura RDX could come with too many changes. So, it seems natural to see its launch in a typical time of a year, which would be the last quarter of 2022 in this case. The RDX is the fourth most popular model in the segment and the closest rivals are models like Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Volvo XC60.
The price shouldn’t change either, so base versions will probably go around 40.000 dollars. The Technology trim starts at $43.000, while the A-Spec model costs around 46.000 dollars. The range-topping Advance and PMC Edition models should cost around 50.500 and 55.000 dollars, respectively.