2017 Acura RDX Pros vs Cons

The 2017 Acura RDX is highly recommended for the folks who are shopping for a small crossover. Drivers like its strong performance and outstanding passenger room. Even when fully loaded, the stylish RDX remains a great value. Excellent crash protection gives your family an extra sense of security.

What’s New for 2017?

Acura did not make any changes to the new RDX. Last year, the crossover received quite a few updates.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2017 Acura RDX – The Pros

1) Potent Performance

Instead of downsizing to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the 2017 Acura RDX continues to offer a beefy V-6 engine. It pumps out a solid 279 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque. You will love the smoothness of the crossover’s six-speed automatic transmission. A 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds puts the RDX among the quickest SUVs in its class.

2) Good Gas Mileage

The 2017 Acura RDX returns outstanding gas mileage for such a powerful vehicle. Drivers can expect to get 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Whether you are commuting to work or taking a long-distance road trip, you can look forward to saving money at the fuel pump. Cylinder deactivation technology comes standard.

3) Responsive Driving Dynamics

While behind the wheel of the new RDX, drivers will appreciate its overall responsiveness. You will always have plenty of muscle under the hood. The crossover also offers predictable handling. It drives more like a hatchback, which gives you a greater sense of control on the road. A precise steering system gives the RDX an additional fun factor.

4) Good Performer in the Snow

While front-wheel drive comes standard, the optional AWD system will benefit the drivers who must face wintry weather. When tested in the snow, the RDX performed quite well. The crossover’s extra ground clearance gives it an advantage over an AWD sedan. Acura engineered the AWD system to automatically respond to slippery road conditions.

5) Smooth & Quiet Ride

Your family will grow to appreciate the RDX’s smooth ride. The suspension system quietly absorbs bumps in the road. They will also like the crossover’s quiet interior. When traveling at highway speeds, you will barely hear any wind noise. Because of the cabin’s serene atmosphere, the RDX is the ideal vehicle for taking your family on a vacation.

6) Sporty Yet Refined Styling

There are plenty of drivers who will adore the RDX’s handsome styling. Like most of today’s other Acura vehicles, the RDX flaunts a striking pair of Jewel Eye headlights. The small crossover demands attention without being overly flashy. A sporty set of 18-inch wheels and a rear spoiler come standard. Fog lights are available as an option.

7) Room for Five

Despite the RDX’s compact design, it manages to provide enough room for up to five passengers. Everyone in your family will be rewarded with plenty of legroom. Owners give the RDX high marks for its supportive seats. With about 26 cubic feet of cargo space in the back, you will be able to pack some extra gear when necessary.

8) Value-Packed Trim Packages

Expect to pay around $35,670 for a base 2017 Acura RDX. Some of the standard equipment includes a power tailgate, a media player interface, and satellite radio. When equipped with upgrades such as a premium ELS sound system and leather upholstery, the RDX rivals the luxuriousness of a German crossover while demanding less money.

9) Great Impact Protection

The 2017 Acura RDX was able to obtain a superb, five-star safety rating. No other crossover in the class provides a higher level of impact protection. Your family will be able to travel with an extra peace of mind. All versions of the RDX benefit from a rear-view camera and a responsive braking system. Meanwhile, the optional blind-spot monitor is a worthy upgrade.

10) Impressive Reliability Scores

Acura produces some of the most reliable vehicles on the market. You can expect the 2017 Acura RDX to deliver a trouble-free performance for many years to come. Even after surpassing 100,000 miles, the RDX should remain a dependable vehicle. The crossover’s build quality is exceptional.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2017 Acura RDX – The Cons

1) Some Advanced Safety Technologies Don’t Perform Well

Unfortunately, some of the RDX’s optional safety features deliver a subpar performance in the real world. According to test drivers, the adaptive cruise control system is too erratic. On the other hand, the forward collision warning system is overly sensitive. These safety features could become quite annoying over time.

2) Forgettable Dual-Screen Infotainment System

The standard infotainment system is actually more user-friendly than the optional dual-screen system. A lot of drivers will find the upgraded infotainment system to be a bit confusing. Furthermore, the system is often slow to respond.

3) Not a Good Choice for Towing

In the event that you need to pull a heavy item such as a boat or camper, the 2017 Acura RDX will not get the job done. It has a low towing capacity of only 1,500 pounds. Consider shopping for a larger crossover if you must tow a hefty load.

How it stacks up to the competition:

The 2017 BMW X3 and the 2017 Jaguar F-Pace compete against the Acura RDX. When it comes to reliability, the RDX easily outclasses these European rivals. Both the BMW X3 and the Jaguar F-Pace will be more costly to maintain. Furthermore, the Acura RDX has the most affordable price tag.

Conclusion:

Automotive journalists have chosen the 2017 Acura RDX as one of their favorite small crossovers. Its solid construction and pleasing performance make it a top pick. Good fuel economy is yet another one of the RDX’s selling points. If you don’t desire any additional luxuries, the base RDX should keep you happy.