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2018 Acura RDX review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Acura RDX highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Great value
  • Comfortable ride
  • Spacious interior

Cons

  • Infotainment can be challenging to use
  • Interior lacks luxury feel
  • Adaptive cruise control doesn't work as well as its rivals

Mileage (EPA estimate)

19 city, 27 highway, 22 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

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Year
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2018 Acura RDX offers value in the luxury SUV category

The 2018 RDX is a strong choice in the luxury compact SUV category. It comes equipped with a V6 engine and a long list of standard features, making it a great value buy while still measuring up to European rivals like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

While the RDX is a compact SUV, it uses its space efficiently. The back seat is large enough for adults to sit comfortably, thanks in part to its elevated seating position. While the trunk isn't the largest in the category, the cargo hatch opens wider than the competition, making loading and unloading a snap.

The interior of the RDX is smartly designed, making good use of the available space. Shoulder and legroom are plentiful and getting in and out of the vehicle is easy. The dual-screen infotainment system may be the weak point of the RDX, but it's functional. Smartphone integration is non-existent and it lacks common driver aids like adaptive cruise control.

All Acura RDX years

What is new for the 2018 Acura RDX?

  • The AWD trim has been discontinued for 2018.
  • DVD Video System features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Base trim now comes with 4WD/AWD as standard equipment.

2018 Acura RDX trims

Curious how Acura RDX trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Base:

  • 279-hp, 252-lb-ft of torque 3.5L
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Memory Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seats
  • Rear Defroster
  • View our Acura RDX inventory

Acura RDX photos

5 reasons to buy the 2018 Acura RDX

What We Like

Comfort: A well-tuned suspension makes the RDX a solid daily driver. The SUV's roomy interior makes for a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers. Seat comfort is strong, and while the seats don't offer ample cushioning, they're supportive.

Interior: The RDX's roomy interior makes for a comfortable ride for its passengers and a great space for storing those passengers' gear. The back row can be folded down in a 60/40 split and controls for folding that row down can be found both in front of and behind the seats, which is a convenient feature.

Driving: The RDX is a pleasant SUV to drive. Its handling is nimble by SUV standards while it accelerates well away from stop lights and brakes competently. Its drivability is excellent overall.

What Needs Improvement

Tech: The dual-screen infotainment system can be a bit challenging to use and at times distracting. The controls are not intuitive and fumbling around with them can be a distraction while driving.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

Based on customer reviews, the 2018 Acura RDX is a reliable vehicle with a comfortable interior. The car has a powerful engine and is a good size for a small family.
4
Excellent

RepairPal gave the Acura RDX an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks Acura RDX 7th out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Acura RDX

Acura RDX features and specs

Base 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • A/C Seat(s)
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Traction Control
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Rear Entertainment System
  • Running Boards
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

3.5L

Horsepower

279

Torque (ft-lbs)

252

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

16

Wheelbase

105.7"

Overall length

184.4"

Width

73.7"

Height

65"

Leg room

F 42"/R 38.3"

Head room

F 38.7"/R 38.1"

Front tires

P235/60VR18

Rear tires

P235/60VR18

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

150/1500 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2018 Acura RDX FAQ

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