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In September, Acura showed us an updated version of the RDX crossover. It's actually not a complete redesign from the 2021 model, but it's been given updated looks, a sport driver mode that's actually sporty, and many features that used to be optional will now be standard.
Updated October 2021: If you're looking for information on the upcoming Acura RDX crossover, you'll be happy to know that we've gathered all the information we could find about it and updated this article to make sure it remains relevant.
The Acura RDX will definitely be one of the first premium crossovers to capture your interest if you prefer your luxury fusions with a splash of adrenaline. With an expressive design that involves sharp creases and massive air intakes, the RDX is a comparatively tiny SUV that isn't scared to reveal itself.
It mostly lives up to its good looks, with sleek handling and lithe results. The RDX sees its niche as a luxurious all-around crossover at an acceptable price, with Acura's emphasis being more on a smooth ride than approaching the speed of certain competitors, such as the Porsche Macan. The 2022 RDX can be pre-ordered now, and will appear in showrooms November 2.
The 2022 Acura RDX Gets A New Look
As previously mentioned, the 2022 update primarily focuses on design. The new RDX receives a reshaped front fascia with a thinner chrome grille surround and bigger air intakes that give it a more aggressive look. The grille is certainly eye catching, as its mesh pattern seems to radiate from the Acura badge in the center. All trim levels, except the sporty A-Spec model, will now feature new dual rectangular exhausts.
The 2022 Acura RDX Interior
Obviously, the cabin in the outgoing model still looks pretty fine. It's elegant and well-constructed. Furthermore, the majority of the fabrics are of excellent quality, making it difficult to identify any major flaws in this interior. However, there are some changes for the new model.
The first thing to catch our eyes inside the 2022 Acura RDX is the contemporary aluminum trim that is now standard. Those who want a more upscale interior can opt for the Advance package, which adds open-pore wood and soft Milano leather. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now come as standard.
The biggest change regarding the interior is the noise, or rather lack thereof. Acura has fitted a new Active Sound Control system that neutralizes noise and makes the cabin a lot quieter.
The total cabin measurements will, of course, stay the same, so you can expect the very same amount of passenger space. This translates to two rows of seats that can comfortably fit five adults. In addition, the freight area has some very decent numbers. With all the back seats up, you'll get about 29.5 cubic feet and a max number of 58.9 cubic feet. It is better than the average car in this class.
2022 Acura RDX Accessories, Options, And Specs
The RDX has plenty of protective features. Adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, road departure prevention, lane departure warning, lane hold assists, blindspot monitoring with lane-change assist, and automatic high-beam assist are all standard on the new model. Front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view parking camera system, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and other features are available too. Acura's engineers have also improved the side impact protection in the rear doors and added pre-tensioners and reminder chimes for the rear seatbelts.
As previously mentioned, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will now be standard, and so is Amazon’s Alexa and wireless phone charging. Another thing Acura has decided to fit as standard on all trim levels is the ambient lighting system where you can choose from 27 different interior lighting schemes.
The new Technology Package is even quieter than the standard model thanks to thicker carpet, acoustic glass in the front doors, and more sound insulation. It also comes with perforated sport seats, 12-speaker ELS audio, front and rear parking sensors, fancier 19-inch wheels, and a rear camera washer.
By opting for the A-Spec Package, the rim size increases to 20 inches, and equipment like LED fog lights, heated front seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and 16-speaker ELS audio is now included. For 2022, it's finally possible to combine the A-Spec trim level with the Advance Package, which includes even more sound deadening material, acoustic glass for the rear windows, a heated steering wheel and rear seats, a hands-free tailgate, and adaptive dampers. However, these dampers mean the wheels will only be 19 inches.
2022 Acura RDX Engine & Performance
We were expecting a hybrid variant for 2022, but so far, it hasn't materialized. However, it might appear further down the line. It could use the same setup as the current-generation Accord, which is based on a widely known 2.0-liter gasoline engine that produces 212 horsepower totals.
The 2022 RDX will continue to use the 2.0-liter turbo-four. It has a power output of 272 horsepower and a torque of 280 pound-feet. This fantastic engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and the entire package is very polished.
The riding is silky smooth, and the driving mechanics are outstanding. In the town, the fuel economy is around 22 mpg, and on the highway, it's around 28 mpg. Again, for this class, this is around average.
2022 Acura RDX Price
Surprisingly, despite all the new standard gear, Acura won't increase the RDX's price by much. There will be a $900 increase for the base RDX, so it'll now start at $39,300, plus the $1,045 destination charge.
Acura also charges $2,200 for its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system on any trim level, any color other than Lunar Silver cost $500, and the three pearlescent hues require both the $2,650 Technology Package and the $3,000 Advance Package.
The RDX A-Spec with the Technology Package starts at $44,950 and with all the bells and whistles it ends up at $51,300.
The top trim level will be the limited PMC edition (Performance Manufacturing Center), of which Acura will build just 200 units. The PMC edition is handbuilt, painted Long Beach Blue with an orchid Milano leather upholstery, and it'll be shipped to the dealer in a closed container. The 200 lucky individuals that'll get their hands on one will have to part with $53,300.