Test drivers thoroughly enjoy the RDX, with most praising the fact that it drives more like a sports sedan than an SUV. "The RDX has always represented strong value, and that's the case now more than ever, as heavier and pricier entries push the limit on what people will spend for small utes ($50,000-plus for a well-optioned BMW X3 is a stretch, even for the most ardent Bimmerphiles),” writes Car and Driver.
However, reviewers are disappointed in the RDX's new front end, which carries Acura's disproportionately large, shield-like grille. If you can live with its styling, the RDX is a great buy. Starting at around $32,500, it’s one of the most affordable cars in its class. On top of that, its 19/24 city/highway fuel economy rating is also the highest in its class.
It’s nearly impossible to find a more affordable and fuel-efficient compact luxury SUV. However, you have options if you’re willing to spend more. The Audi Q5 starts at about $5,000 more than the RDX and offers a slightly lower 18/23 base fuel economy rating. But for the extra money you’ll get standard all-wheel drive (a $2,000 option on the RDX), a less divisive exterior and a more powerful engine.
The RDX comes in two trim levels -- the base and the RDX with Technology Package. For this year, a front-wheel-drive base model is added to the lineup, which means all-wheel drive is now optional instead of standard.
"Unlike the automaker's new TSX V6, where the changes were largely restricted to the bits you don't see, the opposite is true of the RDX. Acura's cute 'ute gets a mid-cycle facelift to bring it in-line with the rest of the Acura line-up -- meaning if you haven't warmed up to Acura's shield grille you might want to look elsewhere."
"A nice-handling little SUV with useful cabin tech features, the 2010 Acura RDX is plagued by an inefficient power train."
"The new RDX isn't just an ugly face though, it also gets decontented over the last version. Whereas the last RDX came with ‘Super-Handling AWD' only, the new version adds a front wheel drive version with the same engine motivating things. It should be faster, but it'll never outrun the ugly, and with a base price of $32,520, we'd rather wait for a bus."
"We think the RDX proves that driving fun doesn't necessarily take a back seat when you have to buy a sport utility. If you're in the market, this SUV's well worth a test drive."
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