Acura RDX 2019 First Look

Acura RDX 2019 First Look By Auto Critic Steve Hammes

How important is the RDX to Acura? Not only is it their best-selling vehicle but this 2019 redesign is being herald as the beginning of a new era for Honda’s luxury division.

Remember the Super-Handling All Wheel Drive system that was skipped in favor of a lighter, simpler setup for the 2013 redesign?

It’s back.  How about the original’s turbocharged engine?

That’s back too.  This time it’s mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission working in concert with Acura’s acclaimed torque vectoring all-wheel drive system for sportier handling, available as an option.

Also available is a new Adaptive Damper System with 4 distinct drive modes ranging from Comfort to Sport +.  A racier A-Spec treatment will also be part of the RDX portfolio.

There’s a new platform that’s not shared with Honda featuring a lighter and stiffened body – wider and longer with what Acura claims is class-leading cabin and cargo space.  Newly designed sport seats highlight a cabin Acura has imbued with higher-grade materials including soft Napa leather and the RDX debuts an all-new touchpad, not touchscreen, interface featuring an Android-based operating system and an over 10” high mounted screen.

Four ultra-thin, ceiling-mounted speakers compliment the ELS Studio 3D hi-fi audio system.

Full details will be revealed at the upcoming NY Auto Show.  Look for the all-new 2019 RDX midyear.