2024 Acura RDX

Most Acuras are more luxurious and higher-priced versions of vehicles made by Honda, its parent company, similar to Lexus and Toyota or Infiniti and Nissan. In Acura’s case, the formula usually works well. Its sedans and SUVs have earned Consumer Reports’ recommendations for cabin comfort, handling, above-average reliability, and engines with smooth power delivery. Like Honda, Acura’s lineup is mainly SUVs, but includes some sedans. The Integra is an upgraded version of the Honda Civic, and competes with the most affordable vehicles from manufacturers like Audi and BMW. The TLX is similar, but slightly larger and more expensive. Acura’s SUVs range from midsized and three-row down to compact and two-row. Across the lineup, fuel economy is usually average. Despite Honda’s success with the technology, Acura sells no hybrids. For both new and used, reliability can vary between models, but the better options often near the top of our rankings.

This generation of RDX drives nicely, but its very confusing and distracting controls hurt the overall package. The 2.0-liter, turbo four-cylinder is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It's an energetic powertrain once it gets past its initial hesitation. We got 22 mpg overall with all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive was available through the 2023 model year. The RDX is enjoyable to drive. It feels lively and engaging, and has nimble handling. We did, however, find the controls to be extremely distracting because of the fussy touchpad that interacts with the center screen. It forces drivers to divert their attention from the road too often and for too long. The RDX is also saddled with a cumbersome push-button gear selector. The seats are comfortable, and interior room is on a par with the class. All RDXs come standard with the AcuraWatch safety system, which includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking; blind spot warning became standard with the 2022 model year. ACC, LCA, LKA, and LDW are standard as part of the AcuraWatch safety system.