Price: $40,345- $55,295
6.9 /10
Rating
Pros
- Spacious cabin and cargo area.
- Sharp steering and handling.
- Well-appointed interior
Cons
- Limited powertrain options
- Bundled option packages
- Complex touchpad controller
Overview: 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec
The 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec stands as a testament to how a luxury SUV can blend athletic handling with a budget-friendly approach. Competing with Audi, BMW, and Porsche Macan, it brings an adaptive suspension that delivers exceptional comfort and handling. Powered by a turbocharged engine and a 10-speed transmission, the drive feels exhilarating, especially with its quick downshift response. The cabin is both practical and visually appealing, with high-tech touches like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Acura has also made improvements in sound-deadening, making the ride quieter, even at high speeds. While some complaints exist about its expensive rivals offering more premium materials, the RDX still carries a strong cachet among those who want an affordable yet well-equipped alternative to Mercedes-Benz GLC-class. The one percent might lean towards pricier options, but for those who appreciate refinement without breaking the bank, this SUV proves to be a solid choice.
What's New in the2022 Acura RDX A-Spec?
A bold facelift brings a revised grille, larger air intakes, and a sleek rear bumper with rectangular exhaust tips. Two new shades, Phantom Violet Pearl and Liquid Carbon Metallic, are now available, while the limited-production PMC Edition, with only 200 units offered, showcases a Long Beach Blue Pearl exterior and an Orchid interior color scheme. The enhanced cabin comes packed with standard and optional features, including wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a charging pad for effortless smartphone connectivity. The technology package introduces an ambient-lighting system with 27 colors.
Pricing, Trim Levels, and Best Choice
With a price between $40,345 and $55,295, Acura offers just one trim, but several distinct options make it versatile. The A-Spec is stylish but lacks real performance benefits, making the Technology package the best choice. It adds navigation, a premium audio system, fancier leather-trimmed seats, and essential improvements without unnecessary costs. For those wanting adaptive dampers and a head-up display, the Advance package delivers but significantly increases the bottom line. Front-wheel drive comes standard, while all-wheel drive is available for $2000. Though some might find the higher trims pricey, I’d recommend skipping extra luxuries and forgo upgrades that don’t add much value. The RDX is already a strong contender, and the right packages make it even better.
$40,345
$42,995
$42,995
$45,995
$45,995
$50,345
$50,345
$52,345
$55,295
Powertrain, Transmission, and Driving Dynamics
With 272-hp from its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the RDX delivers a lively drive, hitting 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds during our tested runs at the test track. The 10-speed automatic transmission provides smooth shifts but could be quicker to downshift, especially when using the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The SH-AWD system enhances handling, helping the A-Spec feel wonderfully balanced in corners, with precise-feeling steering and strong torque-vectoring that lets it change directions confidently. While the ride quality is generally refined, the large 20-inch wheels and adaptive dampers struggled to isolate the cabin from harsh impacts on roughest roads, making it a bit noisy at times. Acceleration is thrilling, with a high-pitched roar reminiscent of the NSX, though some of that sound is artificial and piped through the audio system speakers. The brake pedal felt inconsistent, sometimes too soft, slightly diminished the confidence in sudden stops. Whether in front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the compact luxury SUV pulls away from stoplights with engaging pep, though at low speeds, the throttle can be a bit touchy.
Fuel Efficiency and Driving Range
With competitive EPA ratings, the RDX delivers solid fuel-economy, especially in front-drive models. The A-Spec package adds style but can reduce efficiency, with the front-driver rated at 27 mpg highway and 22 mpg city, while the all-wheel-drive model drops by 1 mpg. In real-world conditions, our tested SH-AWD version achieved exactly 26 mpg on a 75-mph route, aligning with official estimates. This data comes from an extensive testing regimen, ensuring accurate results. If efficiency is a priority, visiting the EPA’s website for further information is recommended.
Premium Interior and Comfort
Step inside, and the A-Spec trim immediately stands out with its flashy red seats and exclusive details. The center stack is a bit busy, filled with buttons, a rotary drive-mode selector, and a touchpad, which some may find distracting. The build quality is impressive, with standard features like ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and power-adjustable, heated front seats. Unlike the Honda CR-V, the SUV offers a sportier feel with a high driving position, making it appealing to driving enthusiasts while still satisfying fans of elevated views. The center console features a floating design with a tray for extra storage. In terms of practicality, the back row has outboard seats with a secondary release, allowing the seatbacks to fold flat. The cargo hold easily fits eight carry-on bags with the seats up and 22 when lowered, making it quite spacious. The layout is flexible, accommodating various needs while keeping things stylish.
Infotainment, Connectivity, and Smart Tech
The RDX features a 10.2-inch touchscreen mounted on the dashboard, while the center console houses an intuitive touchpad controller that some drivers may need time to become accustomed to. The standard system includes wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot for enhanced capability. The optional Technology package adds built-in navigation, rear-seat USB ports, and an immersive 12-speaker ELS Studio audio system.
Safety and Driving Support
A well-equipped model, the RDX comes standard with essential safety and driver-assistance features, ensuring confidence on the road. It includes parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, with additional assists available through the Technology package. For those seeking crash protection insights, the crash-test results can be checked on websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These organizations provide crucial information about real-world performance, helping drivers make informed decisions about this key aspect of vehicle safety.
Key features:
✅ Forward Collision Warning (FCW) System
✅ Lane Departure Warning (LDW) System
✅ Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow
Acura's Warranty and Maintenance Plan
When it comes to luxury SUVs, Acura ensures that the RDX remains competitive with a well-structured warranty plan. Unlike some competitors like the BMW X3 and Jaguar F-Pace, which offer complimentary scheduled maintenance, this SUV focuses purely on extended coverage. Owners receive a limited warranty that spans four years or 50,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty extends to six years or 70,000 miles. While the lack of complimentary maintenance might be a downside for some buyers, the reliability and performance of the RDX make it a solid long-term investment.
Key features:
✅ Ownership benefits: Ensures peace of mind with long-term dependability.
✅ Coverage duration: Provides extended protection for major mechanical components.
✅ Maintenance coverage: No complimentary scheduled servicing included.
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