The current generation of this compact crossover is a perfect example that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get premium quality in return. The Japanese SUV is notably cheaper than its rivals but offers pretty much the same level of refinement in all aspects. It is a vehicle that is practical, but also very luxurious. Furthermore, the long list of standard and available equipment makes it an even better value. Since we are talking about a pretty fresh model on the market, it seems logical that the company hasn’t prepared any particular update for the 2021 Acura RDX.
This means you may count on familiar design solutions. The RDX comes with a pretty stylish appearance, while the list of standard equipment is really sufficient. The well-known turbo-four may be the only engine in the offer but it offers a sufficient amount of power. Despite the lack of novelties, the 2021 RDX has already arrived in showrooms.
2021 Acura RDX Redesign
Of course, there are no bigger changes in terms of base design characteristics for the 2021 Acura RDX. The new model year carries on in the same way, with the design that has been introduced a couple of years ago. This is a compact but quite large crossover for its class, which is something we’ve used to see from Honda and Acura models. It is notably bigger compared to Honda CR-V, with four more inches in the wheelbase. Also, most of the mechanics were actually taken from the Accord, which is notably bigger compared to the company’s most popular crossover.
In terms of the styling, the 2021 Acura RDX continues with all those sharp lines. The diamond grille is there, as well as the rest of recognizable design solutions, which will serve as the inspiration for the upcoming mid-size MDX too.
Interior
As we’ve already mentioned, the RDX is notably cheaper compared to most rivals. Still, that doesn’t affect the quality at all. This is particularly noticeable in terms of interior design, which looks really good. Materials are very fine and mostly soft to the touch. We would say pretty much on par with the class leaders like Audi Q5. The list of standard and optional features is pretty long and all those things make everything look even more opulent.
Besides great quality, this cabin is also amazing in terms of space and practicality. Of course, the cabin accommodates up to five people. Both rows are very generous in terms of leg and headroom, so five adults can comfortably drive with as. The cargo area is as impressive. You may count on about 29.5 cubic feet behind the second-row seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down. These are quite respectable ratings for the class.
Features
We’ve already mentioned that the list of standard and available equipment is pretty long. All models come standard with tech goodies like dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic moonroof, push-button start, and Acura’s 10.2-inch True Touchpad Interface with a touchpad controller, a nine-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, two USB ports, HD Radio, satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hot spot, Siri Eyes Free, and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, you can get navigation, two additional USB ports, 12- and 16-speaker ELS audio systems, GPS-linked climate control, a surround-view parking camera, a head-up display and many more.
This crossover really shines when it comes to safety features. The list of standard features includes goodies like a rearview camera, forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, road departure mitigation, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. Things like blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view parking camera, and a head-up display are also available.
2021 Acura RDX Engines
Under the hood, the 2021 Acura RDX continues with a familiar 2.0-liter turbo-four. This is a typical Honda engine, which really likes to rev, while the amount of power is sufficient as well. The total output goes around 272 horsepower, which will satisfy most drivers. The engine is powerful but also efficient. You may count on 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Those are above-average numbers for the class.
This is the only engine in the offer and while it offers pretty good driving experience, most rivals are available with more powerful engine options. That’s not the case with the 2021 Acura RDX and we hope things will change in the future. So, we hope for some hi-performance version, or maybe in a hybrid variant.
2021 Acura RDX Price and Competition
The 2021 Acura RDX starts slightly under 39.000 dollars, which is a really competitive price for the segment. Speaking of the competition, this crossover competes mostly with more expensive rivals, such as Audi Q5, Volvo XC60, Mercedes-Benz GLC etc.