The Acura RDX made waves when its third generation debuted in 2018, and for good reason. This compact luxury SUV struck a chord with its bold A-Spec styling and engaging all-wheel-drive performance. Now, as we delve into the 2021 Acura Rdx Review, it’s clear that much of what made the initial model so appealing remains, making it a compelling option in a competitive segment. The 2021 model largely carries over the winning formula, proving that Acura has a solid contender on its hands.
The Platinum White paint option looks particularly striking when paired with the sporty A-Spec trim elements, enhancing the RDX’s visual appeal.
Inside the Tech-Savvy 2021 RDX Cabin
Stepping inside the 2021 Acura RDX reveals a well-appointed cabin brimming with technology. The centerpiece is the infotainment system, anchored by a vibrant 10.2-inch HD dual-content display. This split-screen interface is designed for efficient multitasking, allowing drivers to view navigation and audio information simultaneously.
Navigation through this system is handled by Acura’s unique True Touchpad Interface. Located at the base of the center stack, this touchpad operates on absolute positioning – touch the lower left corner, and you’re selecting the corresponding area on the screen. While it might require a slight learning curve for those accustomed to traditional touchscreens, the absolute positioning quickly becomes intuitive, enabling swift menu navigation once you become familiar with the layout.
The True Touchpad controller, part of the AcuraLink infotainment system, offers a unique approach to in-car interface, demanding a short adjustment period but proving efficient in the long run.
A convenient scroll bar to the right of the touchpad further enhances usability, allowing quick access to sidebar content. Swapping content between the main display and sidebar is a breeze thanks to a dedicated multitasking button. Physical buttons for ‘Back’ and ‘Home’ are also thoughtfully placed near the touchpad, ensuring essential functions are readily accessible. While the True Touchpad might initially feel different, it ultimately proves to be a well-considered system that minimizes driver distraction, once mastered. Some may find the small touchpad area and the precision required for text entry slightly challenging, particularly for passengers using their non-dominant hand. For tasks like destination input, the robust natural language voice recognition system provides a practical alternative.
Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration further expand the RDX’s connectivity, bringing familiar smartphone interfaces and a wealth of apps directly to the infotainment screen. While interacting with these smartphone interfaces via the True Touchpad isn’t perfectly seamless, their inclusion significantly enhances the overall user experience, providing access to streaming services, navigation apps, and more.
Compared to Lexus’ Remote Touchpad and Enform system, the Acura system, with its True Touchpad and AcuraLink software, offers a more user-friendly experience. The Lexus system’s cursor-based interface can be less precise and require more visual attention. Acura’s large, clearly defined selection boxes within the interface make it easier to target on-screen elements, contributing to safer and more intuitive operation while driving.
Beyond the central display, the driver benefits from a 7-inch color multi-information display nestled within the instrument cluster, flanked by traditional gauges. In A-Spec models, this display features distinctive red illumination. The RDX also incorporates GPS-linked climate control, intelligently adjusting heating and cooling based on the sun’s position to maintain optimal cabin temperature. For those seeking even more information at a glance, the Advance trim elevates the tech offering with a large 10.5-inch head-up display, projecting key driving data directly into the driver’s line of sight.
The split-screen interface of the AcuraLink system enhances usability by allowing simultaneous display of different functions, such as navigation and media playback.
AcuraWatch: Standard Safety and Driver Assistance
Acura prioritizes safety, and the 2021 RDX reflects this with its standard AcuraWatch suite of driver-assistance technologies. Even the base RDX model comes equipped with forward collision warning with collision mitigation braking assist, full-speed adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane-keeping steering assist, and road departure mitigation. Adding to nighttime visibility and safety, all RDX trims feature Acura’s signature Jewel Eye LED headlights and LED taillights, providing bright and precisely directed illumination.
For enhanced safety and convenience, the Technology package ($2,900) adds front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The top-of-the-line Advance package further elevates safety with a surround-view camera system and a washer for the standard rearview camera.
A-Spec: Style Over Substance?
The trim walk for the 2021 Acura RDX offers a range of choices. The Technology package hits a sweet spot, adding valuable safety and technology features to the already well-equipped base model. The Advance package focuses on maximizing comfort and luxury with features like adaptive damping suspension and acoustic side glass. Positioned in between, the A-Spec package retains the Technology package’s upgrades but prioritizes a sportier aesthetic over the advanced comfort features of the Advance trim.
The A-Spec distinguishes itself visually with dual exhaust outlets and larger, dark-finished 20-inch alloy wheels fitted with 255/45R20 all-season tires. The all-season tires are a clear indicator that the A-Spec is primarily an appearance package, not a true performance upgrade. Notably, there are no modifications to the suspension or powertrain to enhance the A-Spec’s performance beyond the standard RDX. While it might not offer tangible performance gains, the A-Spec certainly delivers a more aggressive and sporty look.
The Acura RDX A-Spec’s rear design is enhanced by dual exhaust outlets and dark-finish wheels, contributing to its sporty appearance.
The A-Spec exterior receives glossy black trim, including a unique rear spoiler. The signature Acura shield grille features a distinctive Black Diamond design and color. Darkened headlight and taillight internals further contribute to the more assertive stance. A-Spec badging is strategically placed around the exterior and within the cabin.
Inside the A-Spec, you’ll find sport seats trimmed in leather with UltraSuede inserts, available in a striking red, and featuring both heating and ventilation. UltraSuede accents are also incorporated throughout the cabin. Red accent lighting and sport pedals complete the interior’s sporty visual enhancements.
SH-AWD: More Than Just All-Weather Traction
While the A-Spec doesn’t boost engine output, the standard RDX powertrain is far from lacking. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine resides under the hood, producing a healthy 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, controlled via an electronic gear selector and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
A Dynamic Mode selector, prominently located on the center console, allows drivers to tailor the RDX’s driving dynamics. Switching between Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport Plus modes adjusts throttle response, traction control, and even the engine note in the sportier settings. However, its resemblance and placement to a volume knob can lead to accidental mode changes, a minor ergonomic quirk.
The Dynamic Mode selector, while functional, is positioned and designed in a way that it can be easily mistaken for the volume control knob.
While front-wheel drive is standard, Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) is a highly recommended upgrade. Beyond providing enhanced traction in inclement weather, SH-AWD actively enhances handling performance, especially in dry conditions, making it well worth the $2,000 investment.
This fourth-generation SH-AWD system can direct up to 70% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels, a significant increase from the previous generation’s 50/50 split. Furthermore, it incorporates 100% torque vectoring across the rear axle, actively distributing power to the outside rear wheel during cornering to improve turn-in and stability. With quicker torque transfer compared to the previous generation, the system feels more responsive and seamless in operation. On winding roads and through sweeping corners, SH-AWD makes the RDX feel surprisingly agile and smaller than its SUV dimensions might suggest.
However, SH-AWD’s cornering prowess is most effective at moderate to higher speeds and with throttle input. In slower, off-throttle corners like tight switchbacks, its impact is less pronounced, and the RDX can feel less dynamic at lower speeds. Being an SUV with a comfort-tuned suspension, there’s a limit to how much speed the RDX can carry through tight corners before physics intervene. Despite these limitations, the transition at the limit is predictable and manageable, making the RDX a confidence-inspiring SUV to drive enthusiastically within safe boundaries.
In everyday driving, the standard MacPherson strut front and multilink rear suspension delivers a comfortable and composed ride. The electric power steering is well-weighted and linear, and the 12-inch disc brakes provide confident and predictable stopping power for the 4,105-pound SUV.
Fuel economy for the SH-AWD RDX is EPA-estimated at 23 mpg combined (21 city/26 highway) using premium 91-octane fuel. Real-world driving, especially in Sport mode, may yield slightly lower figures, as observed during testing with an average of 19.1 mpg. Front-wheel-drive models achieve slightly better figures, with an EPA estimate of 24 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway).
The Acura RDX presents a balanced profile, hinting at both its sporty A-Spec trim and its practical SUV nature.
Pricing and Market Position
The 2021 Acura RDX starts at $39,225, including a $1,025 destination charge for the base front-wheel-drive model. Opting for SH-AWD is highly recommended for its all-weather capability and enhanced driving dynamics. The Technology package, priced at $2,900, represents excellent value with its added safety features, navigation, and tech upgrades, making it a compelling choice for most buyers.
Stepping up from the Technology package leads to a choice between the A-Spec and Advance packages. The A-Spec, while visually appealing, primarily offers stylistic enhancements without performance gains. The Advance package, in contrast, focuses on luxury and comfort, potentially making it a more appealing upgrade for those prioritizing premium features. The tested SH-AWD A-Spec model comes in at $47,125.
In the competitive compact luxury SUV segment, the Acura RDX goes head-to-head with established rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. While the RDX might not reach the same level of outright luxury as its German counterparts, it offers a very well-equipped package at a significantly more accessible price point. Furthermore, with SH-AWD, the RDX delivers a more engaging driving experience than some competitors.
Other key competitors include the Lexus RX and Volvo XC60. The RDX presents a stronger value proposition compared to similarly equipped Lexus RX 350 and Volvo XC60 T5 models, making it a compelling personal choice in this price range. However, competitors like the RX and XC60 offer more potent performance variants and efficient hybrid powertrains, areas where the current RDX lineup lacks options for buyers seeking to move further upmarket. The prospect of a future Acura RDX Type S with genuine performance upgrades remains an enticing possibility for enthusiasts seeking more from the RDX platform.
The Acura RDX’s front fascia, with its distinctive grille and Jewel Eye LED headlights, contributes to its modern and sophisticated appearance.
Final Verdict: The 2021 Acura RDX Remains a Smart Buy
In conclusion, the 2021 Acura RDX review reveals a luxury SUV that continues to be a strong contender in its class. It balances sporty styling, particularly in A-Spec guise, with a tech-rich and comfortable interior. The SH-AWD system elevates the driving experience, adding an element of fun and confidence, especially in varied driving conditions. While the True Touchpad interface may require some initial familiarization, it ultimately proves to be a functional and well-integrated system. The RDX offers excellent value for money, especially when considering the well-equipped Technology package. For buyers seeking a well-rounded, stylish, and engaging compact luxury SUV without breaking the bank, the 2021 Acura RDX remains a highly recommendable choice. However, those seeking hybrid powertrains or higher performance variants might need to look elsewhere within the competitive landscape, or eagerly anticipate future RDX iterations.
