2021 Acura RDX
| MSRP | $42,425 |
|---|---|
| Edmunds suggests you pay | $39,211 |
Start Price Checker
16 for sale near you
Other years
2021 Acura RDX Review
- Roomy cabin and cargo area
- Sharp steering and handling
- Well-trimmed cabin
- Lots of available tech for much less than competitors
- No choice of powertrain
- Options are bundled solely into packages
- Touchpad controller can be difficult to use
- New limited-run PMC Edition model
- Part of the third RDX generation introduced for 2019
The 2021 Acura RDX proves you don't have to spend a ton of money to get a well-rounded small luxury SUV. This is one of the least expensive models in its class, yet it comes with more features than base versions of competitors. Even a fully loaded RDX is reasonably priced.
You don't give up much either. The spacious cabin features a design similar to Acura's NSX supercar and is trimmed in high-quality materials. Ride and seat comfort is excellent. It's also quite fun to drive, especially when you equip it with all-wheel drive. Rival SUVs do offer more powertrain choices and individual options. But if you can do without a deep customization program, the Acura RDX should surpass your expectations for a luxury SUV.
Our verdict | |
There's certainly a lot to like about the RDX. It's roomy, comfortable and packed with features. On the downside, there isn't an optional engine upgrade for buyers looking for more power or a hybrid option. Additionally, we're not terribly fond of the RDX's infotainment system. Overall, though, the Acura RDX is worth checking out if you're looking for a good value on a luxury SUV, especially compared to European rivals such as the Audi Q5, the Jaguar F-Pace and the Mercedes GLC. | |
How does the RDX drive? | |
Overall, the RDX is a solid performer. Its turbocharged engine provides strong power at low rpm to get you away from stoplights quickly, and the transmission is adept at picking the right gear for the situation. In Edmunds testing, we recorded a 0-60 mph time of 7 seconds. That's a little slower than some other top competitors, but it's respectable. The brakes inspire confidence thanks to predictable engagement and good feel. When you drive around turns, there's not much body roll. You'll definitely want SH-AWD to maximize the RDX's sporting potential since it helps the RDX power out of turns. The steering is nicely tuned. It's light and makes for easy maneuvering in parking lots but also firms up appropriately at higher speeds to give you a feeling of control. | |
How comfortable is the RDX? | |
The stylish heated and cooled front seats will accommodate a wide variety of drivers in comfort. They're also supportive to keep you secure when turning. The suspension does a respectable job of keeping you comfortable when driving over a variety of surfaces. The RDX shrugs off potholes and is well controlled over highway undulations. Cabin noise is reasonably well muted, and there's minimal wind noise at freeway speeds. Some engine noise comes through, but it's never obnoxious. The climate control system doesn't have any issues regulating cabin temperature, but a lot of airflow is aimed at the driver's hands, which you may not like. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The RDX has a mix of friendly basic ergonomics and some rather different, if not polarizing, ideas for how things should be done. In particular, the shifter arrangement, touchpad infotainment controller and small climate control buttons might fluster the driver. In terms of visibility, the front roof pillars are a bit on the thick side and can block some visibility when cornering. Rear visibility is compromised by the rear hatch's power-operated hinges. On a more positive note, there's plenty of room for front and rear passengers. A wide range of drivers should be able to find a comfortable driving position, and rear headroom is more than sufficient for average-size adults. | |
How’s the tech? | |
This tech is the tour de force of the RDX. With an intriguing new touchpad interface, the infotainment system should appeal to the tech-savvy buyer, just as the impressive audio system will appeal to the dedicated audiophile. But the learning curve required to get accustomed to the new system could prove a deal-breaker for buyers who don't like picking up new tech. Apply CarPlay is standard, but Android Auto is not yet available (Acura says it's coming and capability will be available to existing cars). Acura's suite of driver aids is standard, including adaptive cruise control, which is a notable strength in a class where such features are often pricey extras. | |
How’s the storage? | |
Acura really has interior packaging figured out, and the RDX is yet another showcase of space efficiency. From a generous cargo area to flexible interior storage solutions, the RDX makes carrying a lot of stuff easier than it should be. At 31.1 cubic feet of storage behind the back seats, the RDX offers more space than most competitors, and there's an abundance of storage options up front thanks to the tiered center console. Car seat anchors are clearly marked, and the large back seat means there's plenty of room for car seats. | |
How economical is the RDX? | |
Rated at 24 mpg combined with FWD or 23 mpg combined with AWD, the RDX returns lower mileage than the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. All three require premium fuel. On our 119-mile evaluation loop, our test RDX only returned a bit more than 20 mpg. Other fill-ups were below that number too. A light foot might be required to hit 23 mpg. | |
Is the RDX a good value? | |
Luxury SUVs are supposed to be well built and packed with features. The RDX does that while undercutting the popular competitors by thousands of dollars, even when fully loaded. Build quality is excellent inside and out, and the RDX offers something a little different from competitors in terms of interior design and ergonomics. It's not as refined or efficient as competitors, but it's a solid value for buyers looking for something outside the usual German luxury box. Unfortunately, the RDX doesn't offer any particular advantages in terms of warranty coverage or ownership compared to rivals. | |
Wildcard | |
If the aggressively angular exterior design doesn't give it away, the tech-forward interior certainly will. The RDX is about providing a distinctive and modern driving experience. It's certainly a distinctive offering in the compact luxury SUV class. Unfortunately, while the SH-AWD holds the promise of a bit of physics-defying handling, you only sense the full effect of that technology when exiting certain medium-speed corners. | |
Which RDX does Edmunds recommend?
We think it's at least worth adding the Technology package to your RDX. It's reasonably priced and adds features we'd expect for a luxury SUV, such as leather seating, an upgraded audio system and a blind-spot monitor. The all-wheel-drive system is also worth a look since it makes the RDX a little more fun to drive.
Acura RDX models
Like all Acuras, the RDX is not offered in trim levels per se but in a single base level with three options packages: Technology, A-Spec and Advance. There's also the new PMC Edition that Acura will build just 360 of.
Save as much as $3,328 with Edmunds
2021 Acura RDX pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Base
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A
Edmunds Suggested Price$39,211
8 for sale in 20147
SH-AWD
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A
Edmunds Suggested Price$40,797
91 for sale in 20147
Also consider these sponsored cars
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Acura RDX.
Trending topics in reviews
- value
- interior
- appearance
- fuel efficiency
- comfort
- safety
- handling & steering
- seats
- driving experience
- ride quality
- maintenance & parts
- sound system
- electrical system
- visibility
- doors
- lights
- road noise
- infotainment system
- oil
- technology
- dashboard
- brakes
- engine
Most helpful consumer reviews
4/5 stars, A 4.5 star review
A,
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
Updated after 4 months of ownership: Running gas mileage is about 21-22 mpg. Under the rating, but about as expected based on an earlier vehicle. We really have no gripes about this car except the rearview camera. We learned the infotainment pad quickly, the drivers aids are helpful but not intrusive. This car eats up miles on a road trip and is comfortable around town. I stand by 4.5 stars. Good car, not perfect. Happy with the purchase!
Earlier reviewafter a few days of ownership:
If you are reading this, you're probably considering this car and cross shopping similar cars, like the BMW X3, Infinity QX50, Volvo XC60, Lexus NX, etc. I will focus on comparisons with those and items that that you notice after a few days that you may not have caught on the test drive(s).
First up: things that you may not catch at first
1. This car is cheaper for a fully optioned model than competitors. But, you will notice a few cost cutting places: A) the standard floor mats are awful. Truly atrocious. Budget for a set of premium floor mats from Acura as part of your purchase. B) vanity mirror lights, glovebox light, rear turn signals are not LED but everything else is. C) the back of the front seats is cheap feeling plastic - even fake leather would have been more in place with the rest of the interior.
2. The physical spare tire on AWD, non Aspec cars was a purchasing decision, after an awful experience with harsh-riding, quick-wearing, and hyper-expensive run-flats on our last car. A spare is rare in this segment. But, the flat tire and wheel you take off the car WILL NOT FIT back under the car. the big plastic bag near the jack under the cargo floor is for placing the tire in when you have to put it back in the car.
3. Pay careful attention to the rear view camera. In our advance package model, it is among the worst I have EVER seen and way out of place in a car of this level. It is manageable in bright daylight, but essentially unusable at night. The tech package camera is apparently better - drive this car at night, and try to back up into a dark parking spot if this is important to you.
Next: Things you wonder if you can live with:
1. We are having mixed success with the weird dash layout. The open spot under the floating gear selector is more useful than we thought. However, since this pushes back the cupholders, they are less useful than expected. Pay attention to this if you are shorter driver. You will have to move the armrest forward, permanently reducing to 1 cupholder in the middle. Most of the other cars in segment (X3, QX50) have more logical placement. The QX50, in particular, has a perfect armrest for a shorter driver.
2. Screens and infotainment: Again, mixed. We are liking this better than the complex all touch screen controls of the XC60 and the odd ergonomics of the QX50 double screen. The menus are slightly better organized vs X3. But, you will need to spend quite some time setting it up. There is a huge learning curve. Once you get it customized, you don't need the trackpad much while driving, but it will take a while to get there. Watch out for the bluetooth integration if you don't use CarPlay or Android Auto. It works with one of our devices, but does not play well with the other.
3. Artificial engine noise. Yeah, on your test drive you heard it revving along. It is fake and a little obnoxious after a bit. Comfort setting makes it better, but you cannot turn it off without also disabling noise canceling features. Drive on a freeway with concrete roads and accelerate around in traffic while having a conversation with a rear seat passenger. Evaluate if this noise bothers you.
4. No AC control in rear. There is no reason why this car should not have it (another cost-savings?). Our main rear seat passenger is mostly colder than us most of the time, so seat heaters back there help. But there is no recourse if your main passenger likes more air in their face.
More standard Pros and Cons:
1. Great driving car. Comparable turn-in with the BMW, sportier than the Volvo or Lexus. Some might find it slightly twitchy. The steering is more appropriately weighted than the QX50 and the ride is softer than that or the X3. On balance, we liked this one best.
2. Looks awesome from the front. But, it looks oddly tall and narrow from the back. I could do without the silly chrome strip on the side. The Qx50 is the best-looking car in segment, but we felt this was right behind it.
3. The cargo area is more useful than competitors, even if the cubic feet are the same. It is longer and flatter, with less volume going up. This leads to more useable floor space.
4. Seat comfort is second in class, with only the QX50 being better (possibly the most comfortable car seats EVER on that).The adjustability on RDX seats is incredible.
5. Sound system is best-in-class. I wish it had a better subwoofer and controls to specifically pump up lowest notes, but this a pretty minor gripe.
5/5 stars, Not Perfect but a Great Car
Robert Horwitz,
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
Looking for a very well priced semi luxury crossover then this might just fit the bill. Is this a perfect SUV, No. Is it a very well rounded vehicle for a good price, Yes. To be honest I love this car. For me it is a perfect balance for everything I was looking for. This car has the power that most people want with decent gas milage. It has the comfort and luxury found only in higher priced vehicles. You really get a lot out of what you pay for this vehicle. To me this is like the balance between the more expensive Audi's, Infinity's, Volvo's, and the want to be CX5 signature. It fits somewhere in between but closer to the $1000's more luxury brands. It looks great, drives great, and does not destroy you with payments. Compared to a fully decked out Rav 4 (non prime) and you are not paying much more but you get so much more. On paper it will check almost all the boxes that people needing a crossover with need.
5/5 stars, Great car but a couple quirks.
Mikejm,
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
This car drives great and makes you feel safe and confident. Lots of tech. Lots of luxury. The adjustable ride on the advance package is amazing. The auto stop/idle is highly aggravating. Acura did not do a great job to make it seamless. You can tell when its on and it hesitates. So much electronic items the battery drains quickly. May need to upgrade the battery. Wish side mirrors moved in when parked. Otherwise car is great besides this small items.
4/5 stars, Vastly improved over previous design
SS,
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
Redesigned model is so Vastly improved over previous design. Power, Handling, interior/exterior design and included features are big plus.
Software update didn’t work and took a dealer visit along with brakes squeaking within 2 months. Both issues resolved however.
Lane keep assist could be better; cannot rely on it on windy roads.
2021 Acura RDX video
2019 Acura RDX First Drive
NOTE: This video is about the 2019 Acura RDX, but since the 2021 Acura RDX is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Edmunds Senior Road Test Engineer Jason Kavanagh drives the all-new 2019 Acura RDX, one of the most popular premium compact crossover SUVs. In this video, we go over the changes ushered in by the new RDX, including the different packages available, its engine and transmission, cargo area and cabin space. Plus, we introduce you to the clean-sheet infotainment interface that Acura is debuting in the RDX.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite RDX safety features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatically lowers the set cruise speed when you approach slower-moving cars.
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Detects when the car is approaching the lane's edge and applies steering torque to help recenter it in the lane.
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Automatically applies the brakes when it detects an impending front collision.
Acura RDX vs. the competition
2021 Acura RDX
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
Acura RDX vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLC has been the reigning champ in the compact crossover segment since its last redesign in 2016. The GLC comes with a variety of engine choices, starting with the four-cylinder GLC 300 that goes toe to toe with the RDX. Between the two, the GLC is a little more refined and has a superior infotainment interface, but the RDX offers more features for the money.
Acura RDX vs. Volvo XC60
The Volvo XC60 is one of the more stylish choices in the segment, with distinctive T-shaped headlights and flared rear haunches. It's also properly luxurious inside, with rich materials and an understated Scandinavian aesthetic. As with the other vehicles on this list, you'll end up paying slightly more for a Volvo equipped similarly to the Acura.
Acura RDX vs. BMW X3
The BMW X3 matches up well to the RDX and is similarly roomy and comfortable. BMW does offer a strong turbocharged six-cylinder engine option, which you can't get on the RDX. There are a few more optional technology features and interior trim choices too. But you'll be paying a lot more to get the X3 compared to the RDX.
People who viewed this also viewed
FAQ
Is the Acura RDX a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 RDX both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. You probably care about Acura RDX fuel economy, so it's important to know that the RDX gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg to 24 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the RDX has 31.1 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Acura RDX. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Acura RDX?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Acura RDX:
- New limited-run PMC Edition model
- Part of the third RDX generation introduced for 2019
Is the Acura RDX reliable?
To determine whether the Acura RDX is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the RDX. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the RDX's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Acura RDX a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Acura RDX is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 RDX and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 RDX is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Acura RDX?
The least-expensive 2021 Acura RDX is the 2021 Acura RDX 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $38,200.
Other versions include:
- SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $43,100
- SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $40,200
- SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $46,100
- 4dr SUV w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $41,400
- SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $48,000
- 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $38,200
- 4dr SUV w/A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $44,100
- 4dr SUV w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $46,000
- SH-AWD PMC Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $51,000
What are the different models of Acura RDX?
If you're interested in the Acura RDX, the next question is, which RDX model is right for you? RDX variants include SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A), SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A), SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A), and 4dr SUV w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A). For a full list of RDX models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more