“My complaints about the vehicle are few: road noise is the biggest issue, fuel economy could be better, the radio knob could be bigger and not so easy to accidently turn off. Overall however I like my car, I got one with all of the technologic advances and the radar cruise control works very well as does the blind spot monitoring. Will have both on all of my future cars.”
2016 Acura RDX: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 Acura RDX receives a mid-cycle update led by refreshed styling and a stronger 279-horsepower V6. It also gains ride refinements, more standard comfort equipment, and broader access to driver-assistance features.
About the 2016 Acura RDX
2nd generation RDX (2013-2018), mid-cycle refresh year.
Acura positions the RDX as a compact luxury SUV that blends strong V6 performance with everyday comfort and generous standard equipment. The model is meant for shoppers who want an easy-to-live-with premium SUV rather than a highly specialized one: roomy seating, useful cargo space, confident power, and upscale essentials in a manageable size. Acura’s messaging leans on polished styling, quiet comfort, and a straightforward luxury experience with fewer compromises than many turbo-four rivals.
Acura positioned the 2016 RDX as a straightforward compact luxury SUV with strong V6 performance and useful everyday comfort. Even the base version has Jewel Eye LED headlights, heated front seats, a power tailgate, a moonroof, keyless entry, and a multi-view rear camera. The new Advance Package sits at the top of the range with added comfort and driver-assistance equipment.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The 3.5-liter V6 rises from 273 to 279 horsepower and produces 252 lb-ft of torque. Highway fuel economy improves by 1 mpg.
Styling
Acura updates the front and rear styling with a new grille, Jewel Eye LED headlights, LED taillights, and new wheel designs.
Safety
AcuraWatch driver-assistance features expand to more of the lineup. The body structure is also revised to improve frontal-crash performance.
Tech
A power tailgate and rear-seat climate vents become standard, while leather seating shifts from standard to optional. Upper packages gain a newer dual-screen infotainment system, and a new Advance Package joins the range.
Structural
Acura revises the steering tuning and suspension mounting, adds active engine mounts, and retunes the all-wheel-drive system on AWD models for a more polished driving feel.
2016 Acura RDX specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V6, i-VTEC, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd Seq SptShft |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 279 hp |
| Torque | 252 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 61.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.3 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |
| Alarm System | |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Lane Departure Warning | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| LED Headlights | |
| Power Moonroof | |
| Roof Rails | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
| Remote Start | |
| Ventilated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Acura RDX?
The biggest change is a mid-cycle refresh that gives the 2016 RDX updated exterior styling and a stronger 279-horsepower V6. Acura also revises the ride, expands driver-assistance equipment, and adds more standard comfort features.
Is the 2016 Acura RDX more powerful than the 2015 model?
Yes. The 2016 RDX’s 3.5-liter V6 makes 279 horsepower, up from 273 horsepower in the 2015 model.
How does the 2016 Acura RDX look different from the 2015 model?
The 2016 RDX has a new grille, revised front and rear styling, Jewel Eye LED headlights, LED taillights, and new wheel designs. These changes give it a noticeably fresher appearance than the 2015 model.
Did the 2016 Acura RDX gain new safety features?
Yes. AcuraWatch driver-assistance technology expands to more versions of the 2016 RDX, and Acura updates the body structure to improve frontal-crash performance.
What comfort and cabin changes did the 2016 Acura RDX receive?
The 2016 RDX makes the power tailgate and rear-seat climate vents standard, while leather seating changes from standard to optional. Upper packages also gain a newer dual-screen infotainment system, and the new Advance Package adds a higher level of equipment.
2016 Acura RDX Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Acura RDX.
4.1
2016 Acura RDX
(348 reviews)
“Fit and finish seriously need to be improved. Interior materials are falling behind against competitors.”
“Missing feature - button to auto retract your side mirrors. This would be helpful in pulling into the garage and going thru the car wash.”