Subscribe for free to the America First Report newsletter.
When the 2019 Acura RDX was released last year with a new redesign, many said that it didn’t appear to be much different. The biggest reason for that is because the previous generation didn’t have anything wrong with it. Most still considered it an attractive, albeit conservative design, but it wasn’t in major need for an aesthetic upgrade. But when we see the technological improvements to the 2019, we understand where Acura put their efforts in the redesign.
It starts with the engine. The old 6-cylinder has been replaced by a 2.0L turbo inline 4-cylinder that delivers 272 hp with its 10-speed automatic transmission. It cooks on the highway and has plenty of power to maneuver through city streets as well. This works well with its next-generation SH-AWD system, allowing it to own the corners with responsiveness that is unmatched by other luxury crossover vehicles.
From there, the comfort of the vehicle is on display once you sit in the cockpit style driver’s seat. It gives you a feeling of complete ownership of the obstacles ahead, ideal for long drives or fast commutes. The leather is extraordinary and the overall interior aesthetic is what modern drivers crave. From the panoramic moonroof to the tasteful use of wood grain, its subtle and soft-spoken, giving a real sense of elegance.
But the real winner on the technology front are the new safety features. AcuraWatch helps keep everyone safe with an automatic braking system, adaptive cruise control, and lane assist. It is a new standard for the RDX that goes well beyond the airbags and seat belts.
The overall technological advancements impressed Jennifer Stockburger, Auto Test Operations Director at Consumer Reports, but she did have one big complaint. “The infotainment system has a steep learning curve and a touchpad has to be used to navigate the system. The 10″ dash-navi screen has sections that correspond to the pad, but the process is fussy and requires diving into layers of menus to find what you’re looking for.”
While we don’t totally disagree, it was a little harsh criticism. Compared to what others are offering, it isn’t much better or worse. That is, unless you’re looking at the MBUX, which is miles ahead of the competition.
Drivers who are looking for a smooth ride to match anyone while still having the stance of a crossover SUV, the 2019 Acura RDX should be a strong consideration for luxury buyers. With a base price under $50,000, it should compete with standard brands as well.
Covid variant BA.5 is spreading. It appears milder but much more contagious and evades natural immunity. Best to boost your immune system with new Z-Dtox and Z-Stack nutraceuticals from our dear friend, the late Dr. Vladimir Zelenko.