2013 Acura RDX: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2013 Acura RDX is a full redesign and the first year of its second generation. The headline change is a new 273-hp 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic, replacing the previous turbo four-cylinder and five-speed automatic.

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About the 2013 Acura RDX

2nd generation (2013-2018), first year of the redesign

Acura positions the RDX as a right-sized premium crossover: roomy and comfortable enough to feel like a larger SUV, but easier to drive and more efficient than one. The core appeal is a strong V6, a quiet cabin, useful cargo space, and upscale everyday features without forcing buyers into a bulky three-row vehicle. Against rivals, Acura leans on value, standard equipment, and easy daily livability more than flashy performance or complicated trim strategy.

Acura positioned the redesigned RDX as a quiet, roomy, comfort-focused luxury crossover for everyday use. Even the base model is well equipped, with leather seating, heated power front seats, keyless access with pushbutton start, a multi-view rear camera, Bluetooth audio, and a power moonroof.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

A 273-hp 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic replaced the previous 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and five-speed automatic. Fuel economy rose from 19 city/24 highway mpg to 20 city/28 highway mpg, and the prior SH-AWD trim was dropped.

Structural

A longer wheelbase created more passenger room and usable cargo space. Rear legroom increased from 37.7 to 38.3 inches, while maximum cargo capacity rose from 60.6 to 61.3 cubic feet.

Safety

A multi-view rear camera with a 5-inch color display became standard across the lineup.

Tech

Keyless access with pushbutton start became standard. Standard cabin equipment also expanded to include leather seating and heated power front seats.

Styling

Fog lights changed from standard to optional equipment.

2013 Acura RDX specs and features by trim

Feature	2013 Acura RDXBase0 in stock
Engine	V6, 3.5 Liter
Transmission	Auto, 6-Spd w/Sptshft
Drivetrain	AWD
Fuel Type	Gas
MPG City	20 mpg
MPG Highway	28 mpg
Horsepower	273 hp
Torque	251 lb-ft
Max Towing	1500 lb
Trunk/Cargo	61.3 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	38.3 in
Seats	5
Doors	4
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
Roof Rails
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start

How the 2014 Acura RDX compares

The 2014 Acura RDX is a quiet carryover year with no major product changes. It remains largely the same as the redesigned 2013 model.

See the full 2014 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2013 Acura RDX a redesigned model?

Yes. The 2013 RDX begins the second generation with a longer wheelbase, more interior room, greater cargo capacity, a new engine and transmission, and a quieter, more comfort-focused setup.

How is the 2013 Acura RDX engine different from the 2012 model?

The 2013 RDX uses a 273-hp 3.5-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic. It replaced the 2012 model’s 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and five-speed automatic.

Does the 2013 Acura RDX get better fuel economy than the 2012 model?

Yes. Fuel economy increased from 19 city/24 highway mpg in 2012 to 20 city/28 highway mpg for 2013.

Did the 2013 Acura RDX keep the 2012 SH-AWD trim?

No. The SH-AWD trim offered for 2012 did not continue into the redesigned 2013 lineup.

What became standard on the 2013 Acura RDX?

The redesigned 2013 RDX made leather seating, heated front seats, keyless access with pushbutton start, and a multi-view rear camera standard across the lineup.