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New-Car Review: 2013 Acura RDX

April 27, 2012   ·   0 Comments

Vehicle Highlights

2013 Acura RDX: What is it?

The RDX is a premium-compact 5-passenger SUV that Acura introduced for the 2007 model year. It initially had a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that didn’t meet with glowing reviews. But not anymore. The RDX is redesigned for 2013, and one of the biggest changes is that the turbo 4 is replaced by a 3.5-liter V6. Front- and all-wheel-drive versions remain available, and in typical Acura fashion, there are only two trim levels and no factory options.

Since being kicked off by the BMW X3 in 2004, the premium-compact SUV segment has grown appreciably and consistently. Current rivals to the Acura RDX include the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Land Rover LR2, Mercedes-Benz GLK, and Volvo XC60. The Acura RDX has a 1,500-pound towing capacity and is built in the US.

2013 Acura RDX: What’s New

Aside from the new engine, a 6-speed automatic transmission replaces a 5-speed (the combination raising EPA fuel-economy estimates by 1-5 mpg), styling is revised but familiar, overall length and wheelbase grow a bit, the cargo opening is appreciably wider, and a power liftgate and music hard drive are now available.

2013 Acura RDX: Engines, Transmissions, and Drive Wheels

The only engine offered is a 273-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 with cylinder deactivation, which allows the engine to run on 3, 4, or 6 cylinders depending on load. A 6-speed automatic is the only transmission. Both trim levels are offered in front- and all-wheel-drive versions.

2013 Acura RDX: Fuel Economy

EPA ratings are up significantly for 2013. Front-drive models go from 19 city/24 highway to 20/28. All-wheel-drive models go from 17/22 to 19/27. Premium-grade gas is recommended. 

2013 Acura RDX: Model Lineup Features and Options

Only two trim levels are offered: Base, and Base with Technology Package. Both are available in either front- or all-wheel-drive form. “Base” models are anything but. Many premium-class features are standard, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat with memory, sunroof, satellite radio, wireless cell-pone link, and a rearview camera that offers a wide, 180-degree view. The Technology package includes a navigation system with voice recognition and traffic information, AcuraLink assistance system, music hard drive, and a power liftgate. There are no factory options.

2013 Acura RDX: Safety Features

In addition to all the expected safety features, the RDX adds a standard rearview camera and available AcuraLink assistance system.

This evaluation is based on preview test drives.

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