Acura RDX 2013 Car Review
Vehicle Overview
The 2013 Acura RDX is the model's first full redesign since its 2007 debut. The crossover has a new drivetrain and much higher mileage but otherwise sticks to the same formula: midsize dimensions, five seats and front- or all-wheel drive. In price, size and interior appointments, the RDX competes with everything from the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 to the Nissan Murano's higher trim levels.
Exterior
The 2013 RDX is an inch longer from bumper to bumper, and its wheelbase is almost 1.5 inches longer. Whereas the first generation was sporty-looking, the new model is more conservative. If anything, it looks more wagonlike than it did before. Eighteen-inch alloy wheels are standard.
Interior
The redesigned RDX has larger door openings and more passenger and cargo room, Acura says. The dashboard incorporates an updated — and much improved — version of Acura's multifunction controller knob on a cleaner, more logically laid out center control panel.
Leather upholstery is standard. The backseat folds flat but doesn't slide forward and back. Standard features include keyless access with push-button start, a backup camera and integration of smartphone functions like text messaging and Pandora internet radio.
An optional Technology Package includes a premium stereo, navigation system and the AcuraLink telematics system. A power liftgate is also optional.
Under the Hood
The 2013 RDX has a 3.5-liter V-6, replacing a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder. With 273 horsepower, it has 33 hp more than the previous-generation model. A six-speed automatic replaces a five-speed, and Acura says a new all-wheel-drive system is lighter. All these changes deliver an estimated 20/28 mpg city/highway with front-wheel drive and 19/27 mpg with all-wheel drive. The 2012 model was rated 19/24 mpg and 17/22 mpg, respectively.
New electric power steering also contributes to better efficiency by eliminating the drag of an engine-driven hydraulic pump.
Safety
Standard safety features include front, side and side curtain airbags as well as antilock brakes and an electronic stability system with traction control.
The 2013 Acura RDX is the model's first full redesign since its 2007 debut. The crossover has a new drivetrain and much higher mileage but otherwise sticks to the same formula: midsize dimensions, five seats and front- or all-wheel drive. In price, size and interior appointments, the RDX competes with everything from the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 to the Nissan Murano's higher trim levels.
Exterior
The 2013 RDX is an inch longer from bumper to bumper, and its wheelbase is almost 1.5 inches longer. Whereas the first generation was sporty-looking, the new model is more conservative. If anything, it looks more wagonlike than it did before. Eighteen-inch alloy wheels are standard.
Interior
The redesigned RDX has larger door openings and more passenger and cargo room, Acura says. The dashboard incorporates an updated — and much improved — version of Acura's multifunction controller knob on a cleaner, more logically laid out center control panel.
Leather upholstery is standard. The backseat folds flat but doesn't slide forward and back. Standard features include keyless access with push-button start, a backup camera and integration of smartphone functions like text messaging and Pandora internet radio.
An optional Technology Package includes a premium stereo, navigation system and the AcuraLink telematics system. A power liftgate is also optional.
Under the Hood
The 2013 RDX has a 3.5-liter V-6, replacing a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder. With 273 horsepower, it has 33 hp more than the previous-generation model. A six-speed automatic replaces a five-speed, and Acura says a new all-wheel-drive system is lighter. All these changes deliver an estimated 20/28 mpg city/highway with front-wheel drive and 19/27 mpg with all-wheel drive. The 2012 model was rated 19/24 mpg and 17/22 mpg, respectively.
New electric power steering also contributes to better efficiency by eliminating the drag of an engine-driven hydraulic pump.
Safety
Standard safety features include front, side and side curtain airbags as well as antilock brakes and an electronic stability system with traction control.
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Motor