2019 Acura RDX undergoes 'most extensive' overhaul in a decade

[AVANTI R5]

Acura's RDX, the top-selling luxury compact crossover in the U.S. as recently as 2015, is undergoing its most extensive redesign in more than a decade as it squares off against a wave of new rivals.

The 2019 RDX will be the first Acura model to be completely overhauled since designer Jon Ikeda took over as general manager of Honda Motor Co.'s luxury brand in 2015.

The third-generation RDX will be revealed during the 2018 Detroit auto show in January, Honda Motor Co. executives said Thursday.

The retooled RDX will be built on an Acura-exclusive platform and, for the first time, be designed, developed and engineered in the United States, Honda said.

Based on a teaser image released Thursday, the RDX will feature a swept-back long hood similar to Acura's Precision Concept unveiled at the Detroit auto show in 2016.

Elements from the Precision Cockpit concept -- introduced at the 2016 Los Angeles auto show -- will be featured on the RDX and consist of an entirely new interior, user interface and operating system.

The premium compact crossover market has become increasingly competitive in recent years with new entries from Lexus, Infiniti, Jaguar and Alfa Romeo. The Lexus NX, introduced in late 2014, has rocketed past the RDX to top the segment in sales since 2016.

U.S. sales of the RDX are up 0.2 percent at 46,487 this year through November. RDX deliveries peaked in 2016 with 52,361 units.

U.S. sales in the compact premium crossover segment are up 6 percent this year, with overall light truck sales up 4.7 percent.

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[illmatic]

Sounds like this is getting the 2.0T, 10speed auto, and SH-AWD.

[arghx7]

Yes ladies and gentlemen, another FWD based CUV with a 4 cylinder turbo.

[heavyD]

Haven't they always been re-branded CR-V's with upgraded engines? What will be so different about this Acura-exclusive platform?

[RealDealTarheel]

Originally Posted by heavyD

Haven't they always been re-branded CR-V's with upgraded engines? What will be so different about this Acura-exclusive platform?

It'll be easier to slap a horrendous grill on than previous models.

[DougNuts]

Originally Posted by heavyD

Haven't they always been re-branded CR-V's with upgraded engines? What will be so different about this Acura-exclusive platform?

Not exactly. The RDX is based on the CR-V, but I think it's similar to how the Lexus NX is based on the Rav-4, just used as a starting point. I know the current RDX rear suspension is completely different (than the previous CR-V).

[SCRAPPYDO]

I think as sure as Honda has started to find its way, Acura will get its jam back. I hope they do, as when Acura gets it right, MAN, they get it right.

[dwf137]

I considered one of these when we got our outback, but for what you get compared to it's honda equivalent, I couldn't justify the price tag, especially since it's awd system took a major hit. I'd be nice to see them bring back the better awd system for this generation.

[banyan]

[YungBoba]

That center console looks like something out of a spaceship. My mom has a 2012 RDX and I always thought it had way too many buttons, looks like that trend is continuing.

[KC]

Originally Posted by YungBoba

That center console looks like something out of a spaceship. My mom has a 2012 RDX and I always thought it had way too many buttons, looks like that trend is continuing.

Reminds me of:



--kC

[Skunkers]

Originally Posted by heavyD

Haven't they always been re-branded CR-V's with upgraded engines? What will be so different about this Acura-exclusive platform?

The only rebranded Acura out now is the RLX (it's a JDM Honda Legend). All their other products only share parts/platforms, as is the norm for most luxury arm manufacturers.

[john_knoxville]

Originally Posted by SCRAPPYDO

when Acura gets it right, MAN, they get it right.

such as?

[SCRAPPYDO]

The first gen TL

[White out]

looks much better

[Pre]

Honeycomb fever taken directly from Toyota/Lexus. And a Nav screen that can never be changed out other than the factory unit. Marvelous

[nate.the.great]

love the styling, seats, and SH-AWD

[heavyD]

Acura still refusing to give up on the beak shaped grille I see.

[vapore0n]

new design and styling
:notbadobama:

[woody06967]

I like everything except for the yet-another-tablet stuck on the dash, I can't wait for that trend to go away.

[SoapBox]

Originally Posted by heavyD

Haven't they always been re-branded CR-V's with upgraded engines? What will be so different about this Acura-exclusive platform?

I know the first gen. RDX was a far cry from a CRV, and actually quite sporty. In fact, I think that's what hurt its popularity. Different tracks, wheelbases, etc. I'd be curious to see what is even shared between them.

[industrial]

Actually a pretty good looking use of the new design language. The Acura logo doesn't look so hugely out of place here. 2.0t, 10at, and sh-awd ... real metal, real wood, nice pano roof. Might be a strong contender for the wife's Forester replacement.

[shake-rattle-n-roll]

Another v6 suv bites the dust unless there going to make a typeS variant

[AVANTI R5]

Acura preparing to reveal the RDX A-Spec

Following the premiere of the RDX prototype at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this January, Acura is now diligently getting ready to reveal the new generation SUV at the New York Auto Show.




And the premiere on March 28 is also set to include from the get go the feistier A-Spec version of the crossover – with the third-generation RDX also returning to the roots of the original by again making use of turbocharged power. On point under the hood will be a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder, linked to the drive wheels via a fuel-efficient 10-speed automatic transmission. It will also feature the newest version of the proprietary Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system, along with an Integrated Dynamics System for proper driver personalization.

Acura is also whispering the new RDX will kickstart their new styling language, and we can rest assured the new generation will closely follow in the footsteps of the Detroit concept – with lots of angular styling. The interior should be comfortable and filled with tech and premium features – including leather, wood, metal, and piano black trim. The A-Spec version teased here should arrive with some upgrades – we can see here the gunmetal, five-spoke wheels.

[heavyD]

I wonder if the A-spec is a precursor to a next generation Civic Type R with AWD?