Acura RDX
Since its 2007 introduction, the Acura RDX has consistently delivered an appealing balance of luxury, performance, and practicality. The stylish and tech-forward SUV attracts upwardly mobile professionals and small families who appreciate its playful handling, powerful engines, and advanced features. Owners also praise the RDX for its comfortable ride and ample cargo space. However, some express concerns about its lackluster fuel efficiency and occasionally bumbling automatic transmission. Nevertheless, the Acura RDX remains a reliable and sophisticated choice in its highly contested segment.
Since its 2007 introduction, the Acura RDX has consistently delivered an appealing balance of luxury, performance, and practicality. The stylish and tech-forward SUV attracts upwardly mobile professionals and small families who appreciate its playful handling, powerful engines, and advanced features. Owners also praise the RDX for its comfortable ride and ample cargo space. However, some express concerns about its lackluster fuel efficiency and occasionally bumbling automatic transmission. Nevertheless, the Acura RDX remains a reliable and sophisticated choice in its highly contested segment.
Acura RDX Model Lineup
The RDX is a compact luxury crossover SUV that accommodates up to five passengers. It’s the smallest SUV in Acura's lineup, positioned below the midsize MDX. The RDX shares a platform and some components with the Honda CR-V, a more mainstream offering from Acura's parent company. Its most recent (third) generation debuted in 2019, featuring revised exterior styling, a more fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and an upgraded interior. Properly equipped, it can tow up to 1,500 pounds.
Acura offers the RDX in various trims, including the base, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance. The base version comes relatively well-equipped with features, such as a moonroof and heated front seats, while the Technology typically adds upgraded audio, built-in navigation, and leather-trimmed upholstery. The A-Spec, added in 2019, offers a sportier appearance with distinctive styling elements. At the top of the range, the Advance boasts premium items such as ventilated front seats and a head-up display.
Since 2019, the RDX has come standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Prior to that, it featured a 3.5-liter V6 with 273 hp, paired with a six-speed automatic. Both versions are available with either front-wheel drive, which is standard, or the automaker’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which is optional. No hybrid or electric versions have been released.
In 2019, Acura upgraded the RDX's infotainment system to a 10.2-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay integration. Android Auto followed in 2020. Earlier models feature a dual-screen setup, with an 8-inch upper screen (for navigation, rearview camera, etc.) and a 7-inch lower screen (for audio, climate, and other functions). In 2016, the automaker introduced its AcuraWatch suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision mitigation. It became standard in 2019. Blind-spot monitoring is also available but typically limited to higher-level trims, such as Technology and Advance.
We recommend that used Acura RDX shoppers focus on 2016 and newer examples, as they benefit from a model refresh that year. If budget allows, opt for a third-gen model (2019-present), which is fully redesigned and offers a more luxurious interior with full smartphone integration and more advanced safety equipment. Even the base RDX comes with a solid set of features, but those seeking the sharpest-looking version should consider the A-Spec trim for its distinctive styling elements.
Popular Trims
Acura RDX Owner Reviews
Average Rating for 2015
4.3
268 verified owner reviews
Top 2015 Reviews
Kathleen W. from GA
Verified Owner · Sep, 2015
2015 Acura RDX FWD
Vehicle is satisfactory, although not as "roomy" as I expected. Don't like that I hit my left elbow all the time on the door as the bottom of the window is much higher than on my Honda Odyssey. Ingress and egress is more awkward. I use the back to transport my rolling briefcase and it is very tight trying to get it in the car to stow on the floor behind my seat. Also difficult to retrieve when I get to my destination. The car drives fine, I just don't use terms like "delightful" to describe it. Recommend you stick to a number scale and provide an "N/A" option on more responses. My car is transportation to me. I don't think of it in the terms you provide.
Jereme L. from PA
Verified Owner · Sep, 2015
2015 Acura RDX AWD
Overall, the vehicle is good. However, the driver seat adjustment and comfort is horrible. The seat base does not tilt back far enough, leaving the fronts of my legs unsupported. I have terrible back aches after about an hour of driving, which I don''t have with any other vehicle. The seat''s range of adjustment is not enough. It needs to go back another couple of inches, or tilt the base (not back) a little more rearward for comfort of someone with long legs. I''m only 6'' and can''t get the seat far enough back.
Susan S. from IL
Verified Owner · Sep, 2015
2015 Acura RDX AWD
As a woman driver, the one thing lacking in all vehicles is a place to put our purse when there's another passenger in the front seat. The Honda Pilot is the only vehicle that has a spot between the two front seats that will hold a purse - I drove a Pilot for 4 years and that is one of the things I miss most about the Pilot. Also, the phone sync is sub-par to other manufacturers as well as the voice commands. That could definitely be improved for true hands-free operation of a mobile phone.
Samuel B. from VT
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Acura RDX AWD
It would be better if the steering wheel elevated when the ignition is off like the MDX
Larry S. from KS
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Acura RDX AWD
Navigation System - at some point the warning on starting the car should go away. It is annoying. In addition instead of defaulting to the Acura Link screen, it should default to the last setting - map, audio etc. Only other nuisance is color of vent control. Vent is black but control is silver. Due to placement of the mirrors the silver show in the side mirrors and look like a big scratch.
Lori F. from CA
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2015 Acura RDX FWD
I would like the ability to program how high the rear liftgate goes, currently it hits the roof of my garage.
Gerald F. from MO
Verified Owner · Jul, 2015
2015 Acura RDX FWD
Vehicle tends to wander instead of following a straight ahead path
Elizabeth M. from AL
Verified Owner · Jul, 2015
2015 Acura RDX AWD
Just think the dash board design, instrument cluster and lighting are Spartan for an upscale car
Barry W. from FL
Verified Owner · Jul, 2015
2015 Acura RDX FWD
Love my vehicle. However I find Nav system more difficult to program than Google Maps
Andrew M. from VA
Verified Owner · Jul, 2015
2015 Acura RDX FWD
I just drive too many miles and feel leading is not the right thing for me. I also am not liking the design of the outside. I don't feel ''cool'' driving it, I wish it was more sporty looking on the outside. I'm actually looking around again and not at Acura as I don't like the outside design, I feel mileage is lower than expected.