2019 Acura RDX

The GPS guided us to Whistler, British Columbia in the 2019 Acura RDX. When it arrived for 2007, we all raved about Acura’s small luxo utility with turbo power that was also a blast to drive. But it didn’t sell very well. By the second generation, it became even more luxurious, but also more bland. Now in its third try, the RDX is longer, wider and taller, plus, happily, regains some of its original spunk.

It’s wears Acura’s distinctive Diamond Pentagon Grille… and Jewel Eye headlights now crowned with seven LEDs. Last year’s V6 is replaced with a torquier direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 that produces 272 horsepower. Engineers added more gears too, now with a smooth 10-speed automatic. 

A stiff new platform underpins the RDX… with a longer wheelbase. Steering is light and reactive. Super Handling-All Wheel Drive is firmly in control through the curves. The compliant ride also has a sporty side we like.

“I’ve been pounding this 2019 Acura RDX up and down these mountains outside Whistler for a few hours now and it’ll do anything you ask it to. It’ll comfortably bounce along or you can really exploit its rigidity with the sport and sport plus mode.”

Inside, the RDX’s inviting ergonomics favor the NSX. Combining buttons with a new True Touchpad Interface, made operation more intuitive than expected, and the head-up display is one of the most legible we’ve seen.

Looks like Acura has recaptured some of its critically acclaimed sportiness… without turning off well-heeled buyers. The 2019 Acura RDX is at dealers now starting at just over $37,000.