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, Jaguar F-Pace and Mercedes GLC.
Ronald Montoya has worked in the automotive industry since 2008. He has written over a thousand car related articles and bought and sold over 100 vehicles over the course of his career. Ronald is a senior consumer advice editor and content strategy at Edmunds and has also contributed to the Associated Press. He has also been featured on ABC, NBC and NPR on a number of car shopping topics. He got his start in the auto industry by taking a part-time job at a car dealership, where he worked in the service and accounting department.
Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of Edmunds' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.
Pros
Roomy cabin and cargo area
Sharp steering and handling
Well-trimmed cabin
Lots of available tech for much less than competitors
Cons
No choice of powertrain
Options are bundled solely into packages
Touchpad controller can be difficult to use
What's new
Two years/24,000 miles of complimentary service added
Three years of AcuraLink remote services are standard
Part of the third RDX generation introduced for 2019
Acura's vehicles have always represented a sort of middle ground between mainstream and luxury vehicles, offering a more premium feel than their Honda counterparts but not as high-brow as something from Mercedes-Benz. That's still true today, though the 2023 Acura RDX is one of the automaker's best models yet.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Acura RDX 4dr SUV w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.06 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
This year's RDX builds off of last year's updates that included revised exterior styling, new in-car tech and driver aids, a quieter cabin and an adaptive suspension. The 2023 model is essentially a carryover but gains two years of complimentary service visits and three years of AcuraLink remote services as part of the overall package.
There's a lot to like with the RDX, though it doesn't shine in one particular area and is a bit behind the pack in others. All RDXs are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (272 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque) paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine is fairly potent but provides disappointing fuel economy. It's the only available powertrain, too — most of its rivals offer more choice in the form of an upgraded engine with more power or a hybrid option — though the RDX is offered with either front- or all-wheel drive. The interior is one of the nicest we've seen from any Acura. Still, we're not in love with Acura's in-car tech, namely the touchpad infotainment interface.
The RDX also offers good value compared to other small luxury SUVs, even when it's loaded up with options. It lacks the refinement you'll find in the Mercedes-Benz GLC or BMW X3, but it doesn't command the same price as those models either. You can get similar features and tech for less money too. There are plenty of non-luxury SUVs around this price point, with strong options including the Honda Passport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Telluride, Mazda CX-9 and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Check out our test team's Expert Rating below to help you decide whether the RDX is the best SUV for you.
Edmunds Expert Rating
good
7.9/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
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, Jaguar F-Pace and 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 all-wheel drive (dubbed SH-AWD) to maximize the RDX's sporting potential since it helps the RDX power out of turns.
Comfort
8.0/10
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.
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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.
Technology
8.5/10
How’s the tech? The tech is the tour de force of the RDX. The touchpad-based 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 system could prove a deal-breaker for buyers who don't like picking up new tech.
Apply CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration with wireless connectivity is standard. Acura's suite of driver aids is also standard, which is a notable strength in a class where such features can be pricey extras.
Storage
8.5/10
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.
With 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.
Fuel Economy
6.0/10
How’s the fuel economy? The RDX gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined with FWD or 23 mpg combined with AWD, lower mileage than the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. All three require premium fuel. On our mixed-driving evaluation route, 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.
Value
8.0/10
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 if you're looking for something outside the usual German luxury box. Previous RDX models didn't offer any particular advantages with regard to the ownership experience, but all 2023 Acuras — including the RDX — now include complimentary maintenance for the first two service visits.
Wildcard
7.5/10
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 different 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?
The Technology package isn't too much of a jump in price and maximizes the RDX's value while providing a suitable luxury experience. The premium vinyl on the base model is replaced by real leather, and the navigation system is handy for when you're adventuring in an area with little cellular service. If you live in a part of the country with inclement weather, consider adding all-wheel drive. It enhances traction on icy or snowy roads and makes the RDX feel a little more nimble when driving around turns.
Acura RDX models
The 2023 RDX is not offered in traditional trim levels like other vehicles. If you're configuring it on Acura's site, you must first decide if you want front- or all-wheel drive (Acura calls it SH-AWD). From there, you can stick with the base model or specify one of four option packages: Technology, A-Spec, Advance and A-Spec Advance. The Advance packages come standard with AWD. All RDXs are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Feature highlights include:
The base RDX starts with:
19-inch wheels
Panoramic sunroof
Keyless entry and ignition
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Paddle shifters
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Heated front seats
Synthetic leather upholstery
10.2-inch central display with touchpad controller
Nine-speaker audio system
Satellite radio
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (with wireless connectivity)
Onboard Wi-Fi hotspot
Traffic sign recognition
Every RDX also comes with:
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the RDX and the car in front)
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
Lane keeping assistance (steers the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
Technology The Technology package adds some appealing upgrades and safety features, such as:
Leather upholstery
Navigation system
Acoustically insulated front windows
Wireless charging pad
12-speaker ELS audio system
Interior ambient lighting
Front and rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
A-Spec The A-Spec is the sport-themed RDX with:
All the features from the Technology package
20-inch wheels
Foglights
Sporty exterior styling elements
Sport steering wheel
Ventilated front seats
Leather and synthetic suede upholstery
16-speaker ELS premium audio system
Advance The Advance package has the features from the Technology package plus:
Adaptive suspension dampers (enhance ride comfort and handling)
Foglights
Remote ignition
Power-folding mirrors
Automatic wipers with de-icer
Acoustically insulated rear windows
Wood cabin trim
Heated steering wheel
Thigh extension and side bolster adjustment for front seats
Ventilated front seats
Heated rear seats
Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield)
16-speaker ELS premium audio system
Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the RDX and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
A-Spec Advance It combines the Advance's features with the sporty A-Spec looks.
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. Edited...it has now been 2 years since our purchase and I have had no issues with this vehicle. I have to admit though since Covid hit, it barely has 20000 miles on it. Update... 3 years after owning car I still have not had a single issue with this car. very happy with purchase.
5/5 stars, Surprising Power 4CYL Engine
Ty Bookman,
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
I was looking for a new vehicle that would accept my large 6'3" frame at a reasonable price. My last vehicle was a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee which provided ample leg room for me. We took it on a road trip recently and found it to be very accommodating space wise. The ride is smooth with a comfortable interior. When there is a need for power there is more than enough to do the job. I have … driven it just a little over 2500 miles so far still getting accustom to the Tech features of this vehicle. This is a very good road vehicle with hidden storage compartment located in the rear of the vehicle. Rear vision is restricted but I have come to rely on side view mirrors indicate blind spot traffic. Back up camera is excellent with ample warning of pedestrian and on coming vehicle traffic. Overall I am pleased with my purchase of the RDX.
5/5 stars, More for your money
Z-man,
SH-AWD 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
Excellent car for the price. Power and handling are above standard. Interior is really nice and the stereo system and infotainment system is a quick learn and very responsive. On a trip got 26.8 miles a gallon with air on. Overall the RDX so far is what I expected…..power….comfort….looks….and affordability with Honda reliability. Expect to last a long time. update after 3 … months...went from PA to NC,,,26.8 MPG with air on...Braking system saved me during driving rain storm as a driver stopped suddenly in front of me...comfortable ride for 10HR drive...didn't realize that the steering wheel being thicker would cut down on hand fatigue but it did...handling on the PA Turnpike in the mountains was fantastic...no leaning in seat around the mountain turns...touch pad is a easy learn without looking at it....will update if anything else occurs but overall completely satisfied with this car
2/23/22:
Car rides extremely well...comfortable and powerful....sound system is excellent.....getting 26.8 on trips and 23.5 around town,,,handling is outstanding...worth a test drive for this car
Whether you choose the 2022 GLC or the redesigned 2023 model, there's no denying that it feels much more premium on the inside than the Acura and has a higher brand cachet, if that's something you're into. The RDX may cost less and get you more features, but the Benz justifies its price with more refinement and one of the best infotainment systems out there.
The GV70 is the new kid in this class and makes an excellent first impression. So much so, that we gave it our Edmunds Top Rated SUV award for 2022. The GV70's base engine makes more power than the RDX's and you have an option for even more power with the optional V6. Our editors found it more fun to drive, and like the RDX, the GV70 gives you a good number of features for the money when you compare it to European competitors.
The X3 has similar brand prestige as the Mercedes GLC, but in its base engine, it makes the least power of this group. It costs more than the RDX and has less cargo space. That said, it handles well, is comfortable to drive and gets slightly better fuel economy than the Acura. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the 2022 BMW X3.
The 2023 Acura RDX is a small luxury crossover SUV. Acura's vehicles have always represented a sort of middle ground between mainstream and luxury vehicles, offering a more premium feel than their Honda counterparts but not as high-brow as something from Mercedes-Benz. That's still true today, though the third-generation RDX is one of Acura's best models yet. Last year brought a midcycle refresh, so we don't expect any significant updates for 2023. The refresh included revised exterior styling, new in-car tech and driver aids, a quieter cabin, and adaptive suspension.
There's a lot to like with the RDX, though it doesn't shine in one particular area and is a bit behind the pack in others. All RDXs are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (272 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque) paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine is fairly potent but provides disappointing fuel economy. It's the only available powertrain, too — most of its rivals offer more choice in the form of an upgrade engine with more power or a hybrid option — and is offered with either front or all-wheel drive. The interior is one of the nicest we've seen from any Acura. Still, we're not in love with Acura's in-car tech, namely the touchpad infotainment interface.
The RDX also offers good value compared to other small luxury SUVs, even when loaded up with options. It lacks the refinement you'll find in the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class or BMW X3, but it doesn't command the same price as those models either. You can get similar features and tech for less money too. There are plenty of non-luxury SUVs around this price point, with strong options including the Honda Passport, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mazda CX-9 and Kia Telluride. While not as premium, all start for less than the RDX and offer a similar mix of features. Several are available with third rows.
Edmunds says
We don't expect any significant changes for the 2023 RDX, an excellent and relatively affordable luxury crossover.
FAQ
Is the Acura RDX a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 RDX both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 RDX gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 82 reviews) 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 2023 Acura RDX?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Acura RDX:
Two years/24,000 miles of complimentary service added
Three years of AcuraLink remote services are standard
Part of the third RDX generation introduced for 2019
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 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 Acura RDX a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Acura RDX is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 RDX and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 RDX gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 82 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 RDX is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 Acura RDX?
The least-expensive 2023 Acura RDX is the 2023 Acura RDX 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $41,550.
Other versions include:
4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $41,550
4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $43,750
4dr SUV w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $44,200
4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $46,400
4dr SUV w/A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $47,200
4dr SUV AWD w/A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $49,400
4dr SUV AWD w/Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $51,550
4dr SUV AWD w/A-Spec and Advance Packages (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $53,550
If you're interested in the Acura RDX, the next question is, which RDX model is right for you? RDX variants include 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A), 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A), 4dr SUV w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A), and 4dr SUV AWD w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A). For a full list of RDX models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
