2008 Acura RDX Review reveals an impressive CUV.

Friday, July 25, 2008

2008 Acura RDX Review

The RDX is a sporty, entry-level luxury CUV that debuted in 2007 that can seat up to five passengers. It fits in under the MDX in Acura's lineup. With its powerful turbocharged engine, it puts the sport into sports utility.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Acura RDX sets the bar for what a an entry-level luxury CUV should be. It's sporty, well-priced, safe and has plenty of gadgets. While it doesn't offer as much utility as some, it has more than enough style and value to match.

What's New For 2008:

New features include an auto-dimming rearview mirror, driver memory seat and mirrors, and standard Bluetooth. Only one trim is available.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power information is not available. The only reported issue has been flaky wipers. No major recalls have been issued. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The RDX earned perfect NHTSA and IIHS crash test scores. Additionally, it is one of the IIHS' 2008 "Top Safety Picks." Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, full front seat airbags, side head airbags, a rollover sensor, and stability and traction control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Sporty feel
+ Loaded with tech features
+ Perfect safety scores

Cons
- Small engine
- Mediocre gas mileage
- Complex controls

Head-To-Head Competition:

The BMW X3 has a larger engine, but costs over $4,000 more and lacks a standard automatic transmission, leather, a CD changer and a moonroof. The Land Rover LR2 has a larger engine and better ground clearance, but costs several hundred more. The Lexus RX 350 has a larger engine with 30 more hp, but costs several thousand more and lacks leather and a moonroof.

What Others Are Saying:

"The RDX is a good blend of technology, performance and function. You need not be a high-energy urbanite to appreciate it." - Chicago Sun-Times

"As always, Acura may not always be the first to the fray, but when the battle is over, Acura vehicles seem to reign supreme." - The Washington Times

"It's tall but not too tall. Powerful, but not too powerful. Big, but not too big. Luxurious, but not too luxurious. Expensive, but not too expensive. Like an SUV, but not too SUV-like." - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Read more about the 2008 Acura RDX at the Acura manufacturer web site.

Published on Thursday, March 20, 2008 - Email to a friend

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