2016 Acura RDX delivers comfort and convenience

The Acura RDX is a very stream-lined, attractive, luxury crossover sport utility vehicle that delivers plenty of comfort and convenience.

If you liked this 5-passenger SUV previously, you will enjoy the 2016 Acura RDX even more, thanks to a redesign. The REDX receives more power, an updated look and new technology that should keep it competitive in the premium SUV segment.

There’s some tough competition out there for the RDX, including the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLK Class, and Audi Q5, and Lexus NX 200t. The RDX comes with an enviable price tag of $35,270 to $36,770. But note that its rivals provide more standard features and technology.

For 2016, the Acura RDX delivers more power (additional horsepower and torque), and a new trim level that bundles technology. 

2016 Acura RDX

• Performance: 3.5-liter, V6, 279 horsepower
• Price: $35,270 – $36,770
• Mileage estimate: 19-29 mpg
• Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles; drivetrain 6 years/70,000 miles; corrosion 5 years/unlimited; roadside assistance 4 years/50,000

From an exterior viewpoint, the RDX front end has added LED headlights, more defined creases and aero vents. Acura has added its signature Jewel Eye LED headlights that are already part of the MDX, RLX and TLX vehicles. The RDX rear has been restyled as well.

This year’s RDX delivers good performance with a 3.5-liter, V6 that produces 279 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque. Acura added six more horsepower and one additional pound-foot of torque. A six-speed transmission comes standard with the RDX, directing power to either the front wheels or to the revised all-wheel-drive system.

What’s cool about the RDX is it can shut down three cylinders in light load or highway driving, which adds a little boast to the fuel economy. Acura gets an estimated 19-29 mpg, depending on whether you’re driving the standard front-wheel drive or the all-wheel drive version.

The RDX combines good acceleration in all driving situations and does it with a smooth and quiet ride that makes for a pleasurable driving situation. The midsize SUV maneuvers well around town and has lots of passing power for freeway driving.

Highway road trips are navigated easier due to the AcuraWatch, the collection of safety and driver-assist technologies that include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, departure warning, collision warning and mitigation, and available blind-spot warning.

Both front and back seat occupants will be pleased with the RDX’s roomy and comfortable seating. It provides excellent head and leg room, plus front-seat occupants have standard seat warmers. There is solid storage space in back and the cockpit layout makes sense and is easy to master.

The 2016 Acura RDX is a modern luxury SUV that is reasonable price and has long-term reliability. There are many strong amenities that come with this well-priced vehicle.