With the compact SUV segment getting heated up with new entrants every few weeks, the manufacturers have a cut-throat competition to deliver the fine goods with aggressive pricing. All automakers are constantly trying to one-up each other by offering new features, better power trains, and other gimmicks to make their vehicles more appealing. Following this trend, Acura has decided to update its RDX crossover for the year 2022 to make sure it stays in competition with other manufacturers in the segment.

Acura has been on a mission lately to deliver precise performance into every new vehicle they make, and the obsession for performance has continued in the new 2022 RDX crossover. The current generation RDX was introduced back in 2019, and for the year 2022, it received a radical new change. It uses an Acura exclusive platform and brings back a turbocharged engine and AWD. The RDX also happens to be the first Acura to get the company's new True touchpad infotainment system.

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A Tried And Tested Engine

2022 Acura RDX On The Move

For all the updates the RDX gets for 2022, the engine is undoubtedly not one of them. The engine is a tried and tested unit, and ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ is what Acura had in their mind while putting this engine in the 2022 RDX. It does happen to be a good decision indeed as this engine on other Acura vehicles is beloved by the people. The engine happens to be a 2.0-liter turbocharged direct injection motor. This engine also powers the Accord, Civic Type R, and a bunch of other vehicles. The power figures also remain unchanged at 272 HP and 280lb-ft of torque.

There was a time when the RDX was the most powerful vehicle in its segment, but competitors have caught up and even surpassed the benchmark figures once set up by the RDX. The vehicle is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and power is either sent to the front wheels or all the wheels by an optional AWD system. These engine and transmission options remain the only choice for buyers in the RDX 2022. Apart from this, the vehicle can also tow 1,500 lbs while returning fuel efficiency of 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The RDX can do 0-60 MPH in around 6.6 seconds, and it happens to have a top speed of 113 MPH, which is electronically limited.

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The 2022 Acura RDX Is Cosmetically Better Than Before

The 2022 Acura RDX's Side View
Via:Fortunegarage

The differences between the previous and the new car are difficult to spot, and one might even confuse them for the same vehicle, but they are not; the new model features subtle but smart design changes. The most noticeable changes happen to be the new side vents that sit on either side of the bumper, and they are functional. The headlamps are still the same with all LED units, including DRLs and Tun indicators. The diamond pentagon grille also has a different finishing to it. There are fog lights lower down, and there also happens to be a front plastic splitter.

At 186.8 inches long and with a wheelbase of 108.3 inches, the RDX is still one of the largest in its class, and the vehicle's proportions are also pleasing to the eye. The wheel sizes now have options from 18 inches to 20 inches with an attractive design. Depending upon the trim level, there are choices between Chrome and Black chrome for the exterior, which enhance the looks of the vehicle. The panoramic sunroof comes as standard on all trims of the RDX. At the back, the dual exhaust tips steal the show just like before, and the diffuser is finished in gloss black on the A-spec trim. The taillights are also all-LED units with sequential turn signals and look sharp.

2022 Acura RDX: Its Plush Interior

The 2022 Acura RDX's Interior

While the changes on the outside are minimal, the interior feels like a luxurious place. Right from the moment one steps inside, they have a solid feeling as there is ample use of leather and soft-touch materials throughout the cabin. Acura has fitted the RDX with a new interior color called the ‘light orchid premium Milano’ leather. The seats are 16 effortless power adjustable with two people’s memory settings, and they happen to offer heating and ventilation functions. The steering wheel is all new and has a sporty flat-bottom design. The RDX also used to have one of the most premium cabins, which has continued in the 2022 variant. The 10.2-inch screen can be controlled by touch or via the touchpad offered in the center console. The RDX also comes with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot. The optional Technology package adds built-in navigation, rear-seat USB ports, a 12-speaker ELS Studio audio system, and a few extra bits. The vehicle also features more sound insulation, giving the cabin a premium feel.

The pricing of the 2022 Acura RDX starts at $40,345 for the base trim, and it increases gradually, going all the way up to $55,295 for the PMC edition. What is worth noting is that the vehicle can be equipped with an AWD system for a premium of $2000. There will be just 200 units of the PMC edition, and the vehicle wears Long Beach Blue Pearl exterior color with an Orchid interior color scheme. While it is not the best in its class in all aspects, the 2022 RDX is still a stunning vehicle as it gets the fundamentals right by offering a good cabin experience and premium use of materials. The RDX is a well-rounded proposition offering stellar value for money.