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Used 2017 Acura RDX SUV Consumer Reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
93 reviews
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Cons
4 out of 5 stars

First try with a luxury brand--2017 Acura RDX AWD

tabjaxx, 01/17/2017
2017 Acura RDX 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
52 of 53 people found this review helpful

My wife wanted a small, luxury SUV and we settled on a 2017 Acura RDX AWD base model. It is a solid SUV with nice features for a base model. No squeaks or rattles. Initial gas mileage was 25 mpg before the cold weather settled in, dropping it to a still respectable 23 mpg. I like the variable cylinder management that shuts off 3 cylinders during low output conditions. It is such a smooth process you don't know when it is happening. The technology interfaces are kind of old fashioned for an upper end vehicle. No touch screens or fancy graphics. Buttons and knobs are nicely laid out, but I wish fan speed was controlled by a knob instead of buttons. Radio does not stay on after car shuts off. Seats are comfy, but leatherette surfaces are more like plastic than leather. Heated seats warm up fast, but I miss a heated steering wheel. Elevated rear seats are nice with plenty of legroom. Great visibility out rear and side windows. The 19.5 gallon gas tank could be larger. The AWD version comes with a spare tire instead of a tire repair kit. Headlights look and function great. Overall, happy with the vehicle. It doesn't necessarily have the feel of a luxury vehicle, but we don't feel we paid a luxury price for it either.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

A sensible choice

Carlos Guzman, 02/24/2017
2017 Acura RDX 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
29 of 29 people found this review helpful

I just got this recently, so I'm still in the honeymoon period, but I think that I have a pretty good idea of what this car is. Likes: the power and the price. Those were the two main factors that made me pull the trigger. They had a great lease deal and I really wanted a V6 instead of a turbo 4. Other cars I considered were the new Lexus RX350 (which was at least $150 more a month), the BMW X3 and the 3-series GT (probably $200 more a month, and their down payments are considerably more) and the Lexus NX 200t (smaller and turbo engine). The build quality is great. I got the base model with the leatherette seats and they feel very nice, other than the strong plastic smell. No sweet leather smell here. I like that this is lower than most SUVs, so it handles so much better and if feel almost like, dare I say, a sporty sedan. I had a Toyota Highlander before, and I wanted to avoid the dynamics of a heavy and soft SUV. . . It was a pregnant cow on wheels. The RDX's engine sounds sweet and pulls great -- the transmission, on the other hand, is slow and outdated. Forget using the paddle shifters, they are slow and there's a jerk when downshifting. Better just use your foot and/or sport mode and leave the paddles alone. This engine with modern 8-speed transmission would kill. Comfort is okay. Some people have complained about RDXs having suspension problems. The car doesn't like bumps. You can feel and hear the suspension working and I do think it's a design flaw, but not a defect per se. I did have suspension problem on a 2011 Honda Odyssey, and after multiple trips to the dealership and opening a case with corporate, they were never able to fix it. It's just like every other manufacturer, they have known problems with their car and they jerk you around until you give up. I personally like the simple entertainment system in this base model. Acura's technology package is outdated. I do wish the stereo was a bit better, but I can live with it. Bluetooth always pairs without fail with my iPhone 6. All in all, this is a great small SUV if you want acceleration, a bit of luxury, decent cargo space, and a low price. I think that naturally aspirated V6s are a dying breed, and by the time this lease is up, I'd probably be faced with choosing a 4-cyl turbo, or some type of hybrid system -- which I guess wouldn't be that bad. So far I'm getting 18 mpg (90% city traffic), and that combined with a smallish fuel tank has me going to the pump more frequently than I'd prefer.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

RDX > Competition

Happy, 07/17/2016
updated 07/29/2019
2017 Acura RDX Advance Package 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
80 of 83 people found this review helpful

Three years/40K miles and still a winner. Front right parking proximity sensor occasionally too sensitive but not a big deal. Updated: Over a year in to it and still love the vehicle. Utilizing the tech is still harder than it should be. First Acura. We (truthfully my wife) were looking for a medium size SUV to replace our 2001 Honda Odyssey. We test drove the RDX, Lexus RX 350, Nissan Murano, and a loaded out Honda CRV. RDX was our first choice by a mile. Super smooth power train and very quiet/smooth ride. Easily best value in its class. Back seat room is exceptional for two adults but three would definitely be a crowd. Only downsides include cludgy technology/interfaces, smallish gas tank, and somewhat narrow driver and front passenger seating.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Very Nice vehicle

Michael Marynowski, 07/07/2016
2017 Acura RDX Advance Package 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
70 of 73 people found this review helpful

This is a vehicle that compares to competing brands that are much more expensive. I bought this RDX while trading in my larger MDX. The biggest difference is this is the little brother to the MDX and does not have the 3rd row of seats and thus less cargo space as well. I didn't need the space and welcomed the smaller SUV with better gas mileage! If I have any complaint at all it is that the front driver seats appears to be much smaller than the one that was in my 2012 MDX. It has been taking me awhile to get used to it. The bigger MDX seemed to have more support particularly with a bigger seat body that went up to the back of my knees. Other than that the car is fantastic. First time having cooling ventilating front seats which is a joy during the hot days. Definitely go with the Advance Package. All the goodies that go with it are worth the price!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
1 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

The right decision on a 2017 Acura RDX Advance

drjcool1, 11/24/2016
2017 Acura RDX Advance Package 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
60 of 64 people found this review helpful

I have been researching and shopping for a new vehicle for several months. I had narrowed it down to the Acura RDX awd and Lexus NX and briefly thought about waiting until the new Honda CRV makes it's debut next month. Well, I just pulled the trigger on the RDX with all the bells and whistles, and I couldn't be happier. It drives beautifully. It is quiet, responsive, and displays impressive handling. Although the tech is probably of 2015 vintage (no apple car play or android auto), with ACC, LKAS, blind spot monitoring, collision mitigation, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and stability control, I reallyb don't feel that I am sacrificing anything. I have no problem with the double screen setup, and although there is a bit of a learning curve, I enjoy having the big map always being displayed on the upper screen. The "cherry" on top was a killer deal I secured after visiting/communicating with multiple Acura dealers in the NY area. I strongly suggest that you do your due diligence.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Get into an RDX if you value your money

Miguel, 04/07/2019
2017 Acura RDX 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful

This base model is just that base. No extra pampering or extra gizmos but that’s what we wanted. However, being an Acura this SUV does deliver a great product for what you spend. Love that this RDX came with standard things like power lift gate, sunroof, etc. that most other manufacturers charge. We love the practical setup of the instruments. Granted it’s seems a lil archaic in this day of touchscreens and such but it’s simple and safer for eyes on the road. iPhone 8 works ok for pandora and music. Every now and then it will require a reattaching of the usb cable to clear up an error. Bluetooth works well for calls and audio. But a problem persists with loading my phone book which is annoying. Text option isn’t compatible another downer. But all in all it’s a decent base system. Oh and also the subwoofer if you call it that is a joke. Barely audible lows. The comfort is great Plenty of space for 5. Flat rear floor which is great. Leatherette feels ok just cross fingers it lasts. Enter and exit very easy, doors open just wide enough. Cargo space is typical. Love the power lift gate especially when you got your hands full. Powertrain is awesome. Has great power when needed. The 6 banger of yesteryear is an oldie but a goodie. Turbo 4’s are the rave with minimal mpg gains. Our engine seems like it’s bulletproof and will last. I typically get 28-29 highway and 25-26 mpg mixed driving. Plus it’s premium recommended not required, another plus. The old 6 speed shifts smoothly and paddle shifters don’t add any excitement just a “neat” feature. Love the headlights. I travel primarily dark 2 lane highways and owe it to the LED lights for saving a few furry road obstacles and damage. It has a significant cutoff that doesn’t bother until I get into hilly roads. Road noise isn’t an issue. Pretty good but don’t expect a vault silent ride. The ride is well composed and might I say a lil fun when on twisty roads. Handles well for an SUV. As far as issues or problems that take us to the shop? None. This may be the last of the stalwart Acura’s for the time being. Mechanically it’s stout. Just simple and cheap maintenance. All power options thumbs up. No rattles, leaks, or things coming apart. The paint/finish looks good but compared to my wife’s one year older Lexus, well let’s just say it’s not as glossy and rich in color. We want to keep this for a long time and are confident it will last for that. Honda needs to get back on the saddle as far as reliable vehicles in their Acura division. I sure hope so because eventually we will need another RDX in the distant future.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Great Daily Driver and Roadtrip Cuiser

John, 06/08/2018
2017 Acura RDX Advance Package 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
37 of 40 people found this review helpful

I purchased a very low mileage (less than 1,000 miles!) CPO AWD RDX Advance, had it shipped from out of state due to wanting Fathom Blue Pearl and none were available locally and Advance trim was even more difficult to find. Traded in an Infiniti G37x due to needing more space but not wanting to sacrifice too much performance and I love the RDX more than I thought I would. Very comfortable as a daily commuter and navigating through rush or driving hours on end up to the cabin. I thought I really wanted a BMW X3 or Audi Q5 but after looking at maintenance expenses and higher insurance costs ($20-30$ more/month for the German cars and RDX is same as my G37) plus long term Honda reliability and resale value, RDX was an easy choice. I drove all three SUVs in heavy snow storms (I live in Minneapolis) before purchasing which I highly recommend doing and despite the less sophisticated AWD system in the RDX, it performed just as well on both slick roads and unplowed parking lots as the X3 and Q5. For those who do not know, the AWD system in the RDX was updated for the 2016 refresh with a larger rear differential, thicker drive shaft, and larger rear axle drive shafts to handle a 60/40 front/rear power split as well as provide better dry road handling. The 2013-15 RDX can only manage a 75/25 power split and in testing another family members '13 RDX, the updated AWD system handles foul weather significantly better and the rear differential does not overheat as it does in the earlier models. The RDX rides much softer than the X3 and the V6 is incredibly smooth and quiet. A recent 1,000 mile road trip yielded 30.5mpg round trip so no disappointment there. I thought my Infiniti was quiet on the highway but wow is the RDX hushed when cruising at 75mph. Other reviewers said this car was noisy inside but I highly disagree as do the professional auto publications. In comparison, I was disappointed by how much road and wind noise the BMW let into the cabin at highway speeds. The seats are extremely comfortable (I am 5'7"), ACC cruise control and lane keep assist work well, and the rear cross traffic alert is nice to have in busy parking lots. ELS stereo has great sound quality and thump from the subwoofer and having both heated and cooled front seats is game changing. I actually like the two screen setup and the NAV system will redirect you if there is a traffic incident. I also like how it shows your next turn in the meter display along with the compass and other vehicle information. My only gripe which I knew when buying this car is it a FWD platform with a transversely mounted motor and unequal length drive shafts so hard acceleration does bring just a slight, slight hint of torque steer but again, the updated AWD system does mitigate this compared to base FWD models and earlier production AWD RDX's. Otherwise, I really enjoy this car for its looks, features, and all around handling/daily livability.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

So far so good.

Scott, 12/27/2016
updated 12/28/2017
2017 Acura RDX 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
19 of 20 people found this review helpful

UPDATE 12/27/17 - after owning this car for 13 months and 12k miles, nothing has changed. Basic maintenance and same comfort and performance. My only minor complaint is the passenger window occasionally goes down about a half inch on its own. I notice because it rattles. I don't know why it dies this- almost like road bumps rattle it loose. I switch between regular and premium gas and notice no difference in mpg. Car feels like it runs better on premium but not enough to justify the 70 cents + per gallon difference. Overall, I really enjoy this vehicle. I chose the base AWD because I did not like the stereo and navigation interface on the technology package and above. I also did not get Acura watch package because it's not perfected. The only options I wish I had are blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic. Get about 21 mpg overall so far and it is winter. The past 3 days has been 32-40 degrees and I've been getting about 24 in mixed driving on regular. Overall, the RDX has great acceleration and great value vs its main competitors. Nothing else comparable with a luxury nameplate comes close. I only have 3 minor complaints. 1) use of cargo space could be better. My wife has a Mazda CX5 and her car holds way more and has nice little cubbies the RDX lacks. 2) handling. Again, comparing to the CX5 steering is vague and lacks feedback. 3) When using the Bluetooth it's really hard to hear. Voices very tinny and have to have volume on very high to hear the other line. It's a little odd because the stereo and speakers are otherwise fine. Overall, I definitely recommend. Bulletproof engine and transmission and again, it's hard to match at its price point.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

2017 Acura RDX Advance AWD

Dave Hagan, 09/26/2016
updated 03/28/2022
2017 Acura RDX Advance Package 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
45 of 50 people found this review helpful

Updated 3/28/22 Still, zero issues with this car. My wife loves it. Just hitting 70k miles. She does Home Health patient visits, so frequent short trips. The V6 is still pulling about 21.5 MPG. Wouldn't mind that being better, but a fantastic vehicle with no issues, not even a squeak or a creak! Updated 3/27/19: Absolutely zero problems or warranty issues since purchasing almost 2 and 1/2 years ago. My wife loves to driving the RDX. Gets good mileage, around 24mpg on average. Technology could definitely use some improvement (voice recognition, slow interface). Could definitely use Google Maps / Apple Car Play. Extremely happy with the RDX still. As the owner of a 2016 Acura MDX, my wife loved driving it but wanted something a little smaller. She drove a number of vehicles and came back to the Acura RDX. It was the best mix of comfort, luxury, sportiness, and safety of any vehicle she test drove. She is currently 3 weeks in to ownership and completely loves it. She was coming from an Infiniti G37, so was used to great acceleration. The RDX doesn't disappoint as it's one of the quickest vehicles in it's class. The only complaints would be average to below average navigation system and lack of power folding mirrors, panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, backseat climate controls, and Android Auto / Apple Car Play. The car excels in just about every other area. The Modern Steel Metallic with Graystone interior is gorgeous. Averaging 23 mpg around town. 3-26-18 Update: 18,000 miles later,My wife still loves the car as much as Day 1. Still zero issues with the RDX. Only complaint is really the outdated and slow navigation system.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Almost perfect RDX

Robert Nordlie, 11/18/2016
2017 Acura RDX Advance Package 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
16 of 17 people found this review helpful

I've had my RDX for a month and already have 2000 miles on it. Overall, I love the car. Very comfortable seats and ride, however, I've had a little difficulty finding and ideal driving position. I am very tall and with the seat all the way back to accommodate my legs, the steering wheel does not telescope quite far enough to be completely comfortable. Many complain about the two screen technology but I like it very much. I also own a Corvette so I like to go fast, and as a result I'm only averaging about 21 mpg around town, but that's fine with me since I had a Ford Explorer Sport before this and only got 17 mpg with that. Overall, I am very satisfied and would highly recommend this vehicle. I really like the styling, with the door handles contoured to the belt line and the LED headlights. I also like the clean back end with no bumper sticking out below the hatch and not visible exhaust tips (and yes I do like the four exhaust trumpets on my Vette).

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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