The 2022 Acura RDX continues to stand out in the competitive compact luxury SUV market, offering a compelling blend of performance, technology, and premium features. For those considering a sophisticated and versatile vehicle, understanding the detailed specifications of the 2022 Rdx is crucial. Let’s delve into a comprehensive overview of what makes this Acura SUV a noteworthy contender.
Engine and Performance Dynamics
At the heart of every 2022 Acura RDX lies a potent 2.0-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This robust power unit delivers 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque, readily available between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. The mono-scroll turbocharger ensures responsive power delivery across the rev range, making for an engaging driving experience whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The engine features a 16-valve, DOHC VTEC® valvetrain, a 9.8:1 compression ratio, and direct fuel injection, all contributing to its efficiency and performance. Acura’s Drive-by-Wire Throttle System further enhances responsiveness, while the Idle Stop feature aids in fuel conservation during city driving. The engine is designed for longevity and reduced maintenance, boasting a 100k +/- miles tune-up interval and a ULEV-50 CARB emissions rating, reflecting its environmentally conscious engineering.
Drivetrain and Handling Prowess
The 2022 RDX offers a choice between Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and Acura’s acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®). SH-AWD® is available across all trims and standard on the Advance Package and PMC Edition, providing enhanced traction and control in various driving conditions. Paired with a smooth and responsive 10-Speed Automatic Transmission, the RDX ensures seamless gear changes and optimal power utilization. Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters are standard, allowing drivers to take manual control for a more spirited drive. The gear ratios are precisely calibrated to maximize both acceleration and fuel efficiency, with ratios ranging from 5.25 in 1st gear to 0.52 in 10th gear. The final drive ratio is 4.17, contributing to the vehicle’s overall responsiveness.
Fuel Economy and Towing Capabilities
Fuel efficiency is a significant consideration for SUV buyers, and the 2022 Acura RDX performs admirably in this aspect. FWD models achieve EPA fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. SH-AWD equipped RDX models are rated at 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. It’s worth noting that the Technology Package variants maintain similar fuel economy figures. The RDX is designed to run on premium unleaded 91 octane fuel and has a fuel tank capacity of 17.1 U.S. gallons, providing a good balance between performance and range. For those needing to tow, both FWD (with the optional towing package) and SH-AWD versions of the 2022 RDX offer a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs, sufficient for light-duty towing needs.
Chassis, Dimensions, and Weight
The 2022 RDX chassis is engineered for a comfortable yet engaging ride. It features a MacPherson Strut Front Suspension and a Multi-Link Rear Suspension, both equipped with stabilizer bars (30mm front, 23mm rear) to minimize body roll. Amplitude Reactive Dampers are standard on base and Technology Packages, while the Advance Package and PMC Edition upgrade to an Adaptive Damper System, allowing for a more refined and customizable driving experience. Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS) and Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) are standard across the range, along with Agile Handling Assist®, enhancing the RDX’s maneuverability and responsiveness. Braking is handled by 4-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front discs (12.4 inches) and solid rear discs (12.2 inches).
The exterior dimensions of the 2022 RDX are consistent across all trims, with a length of 187.4 inches, a width of 74.8 inches, and a height of 65.7 inches. The wheelbase measures 108.3 inches, and the track is 64.2 inches (front) and 64.7 inches (rear). Ground clearance is a practical 8.2 inches unladen. Inside, the RDX offers generous space with front/rear headroom of 40/38 inches, legroom of 42/38 inches, shoulder room of 60/57 inches, and hiproom of 55/50 inches. EPA passenger volume is 104 cu ft. Cargo volume stands at 29.5 cu ft behind the second row and expands to a maximum of 79.8 cu ft behind the first row (SAE J1100 standard).
Curb weight varies based on drivetrain and trim. FWD models range from 3777 lbs to 3843 lbs, while SH-AWD models range from 4015 lbs to 4079 lbs. Weight distribution for FWD is 59/41 (front/rear) and for SH-AWD is approximately 57/43 or 58/42 (front/rear), depending on the specific trim.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Technologies
Acura prioritizes safety, and the 2022 RDX comes standard with AcuraWatch™ Advanced Safety & Driver-Assistance Technology suite. This includes Forward Collision Warning (FCW) System, Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) System, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, Traffic Sign Recognition, Pedestrian Detection, and Low Speed Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). Additional safety features include the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure, multiple airbags (dual-stage front, side, side curtain, and front knee airbags), Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control, 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist. The Advance Package and PMC Edition further enhance safety with a Head-Up Warning (HUW) system.
Interior Features and Connectivity
Inside, the 2022 RDX is well-appointed with a range of comfort, convenience, and technology features. Standard features include Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Keyless Access System with Acura Personalized Settings, Pushbutton Ignition, and a Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines. Technology highlights include the True Touchpad Interface™ paired with a 10.2-Inch HD Dual-Content Center Display and a 7-Inch Color Multi-Information Display (MID). Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ integration, Amazon Alexa Built-In, and AcuraLink® Connected Services are standard. Audio systems range from a 9-speaker premium system to the ELS Studio® 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers (depending on trim). Higher trims add features like Acura Navigation System with 3D View, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™, Traffic Rerouting™, Natural Language Voice Recognition, and a Wireless Charging Pad. The Advance Package stands out with a 10.5-Inch Head-Up Display (HUD), GPS-Linked Climate Control, Parking Sensors (front and rear), Blind spot information (BSI) System, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, Surround-View Camera System, Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers, Windshield Wiper De-Icer, and Heated Rear Seats.
Trim Levels and Packages
The 2022 Acura RDX is offered in several trims, including base RDX, Technology Package, A-Spec Package, Advance Package, and the limited-edition PMC Edition. Each trim builds upon the previous, offering increasing levels of luxury, technology, and sporty aesthetics. The Technology Package adds navigation, upgraded audio, and parking sensors. The A-Spec Package focuses on sporty styling enhancements both inside and out. The Advance Package represents the pinnacle of luxury and technology features, while the PMC Edition offers exclusive styling and features.
Conclusion
The 2022 Acura RDX is a well-rounded luxury SUV that delivers on multiple fronts. From its spirited turbocharged engine and available SH-AWD to its spacious and feature-rich interior and comprehensive safety suite, the RDX offers a compelling package for discerning buyers. Whether you prioritize performance, technology, or premium comfort, the 2022 Acura RDX is worth considering in the competitive luxury SUV landscape. Its detailed specifications reveal a vehicle engineered for a refined and engaging driving experience.
