The 2018 Acura RDX, a compact premium sport/utility vehicle with two rows, has earned its place as Acura's top-selling model. It competes with high-end models like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 but stands out with its lower price and user-friendly trim and equipment options. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine has been replaced with a smoother V-6 engine, making the 2018 Acura RDX even more comfortable. It's known for its quality, value, deluxe materials, and impressive features, all at an attractive price.
Stepping inside the 2018 Acura RDX, occupants are greeted by a sense of spacious luxury. The vehicle offers a generous cabin space that enhances comfort, making it an ideal choice for young couples or a pair of empty-nesters. The RDX boasts a commendable 76.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, a feature that sets it apart in its class. The two-row seating arrangement is both practical and comfortable, indicative of Acura’s dedication to sophistication and functionality. However, some might find luxury rivals providing a touch more refinement in their interiors. Even so, the interior design of the 2018 Acura RDX truly encapsulates the blend of comfort and luxury the brand is renowned for.
The 2018 Acura RDX has got this sleek exterior that totally embodies the modern design vibe of the Acura brand. It's got this cool resemblance with the bigger MDX model, like a mini version of it. At the front, the RDX rocks those awesome Jewel Eye headlights on either side of a 3D grille, a classic Acura feature. These headlights shine bright and give excellent visibility, adding a touch of class to the front. The back of the RDX flaunts these distinct taillights that have that same Acura look. It's all about that consistent design that gives off a unique charm, a true Acura trademark. Overall, the RDX's exterior design strikes that perfect balance between sophistication and modern style, making it such a cool contender in the compact premium SUV game.
The 2018 Acura RDX houses a formidable powertrain under its hood. The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V-6, a departure from the previous 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The new V6 engine provides an impressive power output, boasting 279 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque. This potent engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that, while offering better fuel efficiency, can sometimes be hesitant on upshifts. Unlike its predecessor that featured Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD), the new model employs an optional part-time AWD system that limits power distribution to the rear wheels to no more than 50%. Despite this change, the 2018 RDX still delivers robust acceleration and commendable fuel economy, striking a balance between performance and efficiency that remains one of its key selling points.
The 2018 Acura RDX scores impressively when it comes to fuel efficiency. With the front-wheel-drive (FWD) model, the EPA city/highway fuel economy is 20/28 mpg, which is a commendable figure for the compact premium SUV segment. Opting for the all-wheel-drive (AWD) model will slightly affect the fuel economy, bringing it to 19/27 mpg. These figures are an achievement considering the robust V6 engine under its hood. It's important to remember that EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the most accurate numbers on current and older vehicles like the 2018 Acura RDX, it's best to visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
The 2018 Acura RDX is equipped with an array of safety features, some of which are standard while others are available through add-on packages. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, front-impact airbags, side-impact airbags, overhead airbags, occupant-sensing airbags, and seatbelt pre-tensioners. In addition, the SUV offers advanced driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking system, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist as part of the Acura Watch Package. The Technology Package further bolsters safety by adding blind-spot information and a rear cross-traffic monitor.
When it comes to safety ratings, the 2018 Acura RDX lives up to its reputation as a safe vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating, while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it 'Good' ratings in all crashworthiness tests and a 'Superior' rating for front crash prevention. However, it's worth noting that the RDX's headlights were rated 'Acceptable' and 'Marginal' depending on the model, and it was not given a Top Safety Pick designation due to these scores. For more information about the Acura RDX’s crash-test results, visit the NHTSA and IIHS websites.
And there you have it! The 2018 Acura RDX is seriously impressive! It's got all the luxurious amenities, powerful performance, and top-notch safety ratings. The interior is super spacious, loaded with advanced features, and has one of the biggest cargo spaces in its class. Perfect for families and everyday commuting. And can we talk about its exterior? It's a perfect blend of sophistication and modern style, showing that Acura cares about looks too. The RDX's 3.5-liter V6 engine packs a punch while still being fuel efficient. Plus, it's got all the safety features you could ask for, with high ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. Acura really nailed it with this one!
To sum it up, the 2018 Acura RDX is a well-rounded ride that's got it all: luxury, performance, and safety in one neat package. It's a strong contender in the compact premium SUV category, and I'd definitely recommend it to folks who value these qualities. Sure, it's got a few quirks like the headlights that prevented it from getting a Top Safety Pick from IIHS, but overall, the RDX strikes a great balance between luxury, convenience, and safety that's hard to overlook.
