2019 Acura RDX Packages with Comparisons & Configurations.

The 2019 Acura RDX is arguably the best crossover SUV in Acura’s lineup. Automotive critics rave about the RDX’s razor-sharp driving dynamics, roomy seats, and abundance of high-tech features. It’s also quite efficient for a powerful SUV. Don't hesitate to make the new RDX your family's main vehicle.

A lot has been changed on the redesigned 2019 Acura RDX. Not only has Acura replaced the previous V6 engine with an all-new turbocharged four-cylinder, but it has also reworked the crossover’s suspension for improved road handling. Longtime Acura fans will immediately notice the RDX’s sharper exterior styling.

Unlike many of today’s new vehicles, the 2019 Acura RDX only comes in a single trim. However, there are some great packages on the RDX's list of options. Let’s see what each of these available packages brings to the table.

Compare the 2019 Acura RDX Base vs Technology Package. What is the difference?

Even the base RDX with no options added proves to be a splendid choice. Like every new RDX, it comes equipped with a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Acura tuned this engine to push out a solid 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission seeks to improve fuel economy and promote stronger acceleration. While front-wheel drive comes standard, Acura’s famed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system is optional.

An Integrated Dynamics System enables you to adjust the RDX’s driving character. It gives you four different modes to choose from: Comfort, Snow, Sport and Sport+. Activating the Sport+ makes the RDX especially fun to drive.

Most buyers will be more than happy with the base RDX’s styling. It comes equipped with lustrous Jewel Eye LED headlamps and a nice-looking Diamond Pentagon grille. On the rear, twin exhaust outlets accentuate the new RDX’s sportier exterior styling. You’ll be able to choose from a total of eight paint colors, including Performance Red Pearl and Fathom Blue Pearl.

When buying a new 2019 Acura RDX, you won’t have to pay extra for advanced safety technologies. A standard AcuraWatch package rewards you with some confidence-inspiring driving aids. While forward collision warning can prevent a crash by activating your brakes when approaching obstacles, lane-keep assist helps prevent deter wandering on the highway. Adaptive cruise control and road departure mitigation are included as well.

Very few people will have any complaints about the base RDX’s list of equipment. The heated seats will help you to enjoy traveling during the winter. Simulated leather upholstery gives the cabin a high-quality feel. A panoramic sunroof enables you feel an extra breeze on the inside. Dual-zone automatic climate control is another great convenience. Some of the standard technology includes a nine-speaker sound system with satellite radio, a 10.2-inch infotainment display, a backup camera, and Bluetooth streaming.

While the available Technology package doesn’t impact performance or styling, it does surround you with an extra number of premium features. Leather upholstery helps the RDX to better compete against more expensive rivals. The package’s blind-spot monitor will certainly make driving on the interstate less stressful. Other upgrades include a more powerful sound system, rear USB ports, and GPS-linked climate control.

Compare the 2019 RDX Technology vs A-Spec Packages. What is the difference?

Drivers looking to transform the 2019 Acura RDX into a sportier-looking crossover should check out the A-Spec Package. It elevates styling by adding a more stimulating set of 20-inch alloy wheels with wider performance tires. Sports car-inspired exhaust outlets make the RDX look even more powerful. Gloss black accents give the exterior the finishing touches.

Driving enthusiasts will also enjoy the A-Spec package’s race-style interior. You can choose between red and ebony leather seats. Red accent lighting gives the cabin a more exciting character. While behind the wheel, you’ll notice the sport gauges and aluminum pedals. Front-seat ventilation treats you to greater comfort on summer drives. Acura also an even more resonate ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system, which rivals the best in the segment.

Compare the RDX Technology Package vs Advance Package. What is the difference?

The Advance package is for the drivers who desire top-tier luxury. Full-grain Milano leather covers the interior. To improve ride quality and handling, Acura replaces the standard shock absorbers with adaptive suspension dampers. Denser carpet and acoustic glass ensure the maximum quietness. Drivers will especially like the head-up display, which can be customized at the touch of a button.

When returning to the SUV with an armful of bags, the hands-free tailgate will make loading easier. Some of the other creature comforts that come in the Advance package consist of a steering wheel with built-in heating and heated rear seats. Remember, you must get the available Technology package before adding the Advance package.

Which Package to Choose?

The base 2019 Acura RDX has what it takes to please most drivers. An MSRP of $37,300 makes the RDX a super deal for a premium crossover. While a powerful engine and sharp handling create a fun driving experience, an improved True Touchpad Interface infotainment system enables you to perform several functions from the driver’s seat. Despite adding $2,000 to the SUV’s total cost, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is a purchase you won’t regret.

Before you get the Technology package, be aware of its $3,200 price tag. While this may be a hefty sum for many buyers, this package does add highly desired features like blind-spot monitoring and navigation.

For good reason, the A-Spec package is expected to be a hot commodity. It equips the RDX with some show-stopping appearance upgrades. Wider tires also help take handling to the next level. The A-Spec package’s sporty interior treatments will also trigger your inner race car driver. Front-seat ventilation and the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system bring more excitement.

With a total price of $45,400 before adding Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, the Advance package will be just a bit too costly for some buyers. While it indeed makes the RDX feel more luxurious, you probably can live without most of the interior upgrades. Nevertheless, you’ll probably grow to love the customizable head-up display.

Key Features of the 2019 Acura RDX

If you’re like many of the other people shopping for a new 2019 Acura RDX, you’ll want to know how the new turbocharged four-cylinder engine performs. While this new engine produces slightly less horsepower, it packs significantly more torque. The extra torque along with a new 10-speed transmission helps promote responsive acceleration. You’ll love how quickly the new RDX moves out. City fuel economy has improved to 22 mpg on premium gas.

Front-wheel drive is standard on the 2019 Acura RDX. However, Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system is worth the extra $2,000. It’ll help you to maintain better grip during inclement weather. As its name suggests, this sophisticated AWD system also promotes more controlled handling. When taking a tight corner, the AWD-equipped RDX remains incredibly balanced. It feels more like a sporty hatchback opposed to a family-sized SUV. Amazingly, fuel economy is only slightly lower with the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.

Only the Advance package equips the 2019 Acura RDX with adaptive suspension dampers. While they slightly improve ride and handling, only choose the Advance package if you desire the package’s other upgrades. Even without the adaptive suspension dampers, the RDX is comfortable and engaging to drive. This is a plus for the drivers who are satisfied with the base RDX.

Acura’s new Touchpad Interface is found in every 2019 Acura RDX. The 10.2-inch infotainment screen’s graphics are very sharp and defined. AcuraLink and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration make plug-and-play connectivity easy. Android Auto will be provided later in the model year. While the touch-pad controller for the infotainment system works well, it’ll take a while for some drivers to learn how to use the feature. After you get the hang of using the system, you’ll be able to easily navigate through the various apps. The available navigation system responds well to voice commands.

An AcuraWatch safety package is included as a standard features. During your everyday grind, you’ll grow to appreciate the advanced driving aids. As you know, even a slight loss of concentration on the road can put you at risk of being involved in an accident. According to testers, the RDX’s safety technologies are less sensitive than before. Forward collision warning effectively anticipates fast-approaching obstacles. If you happen to be driving on a wintry day, the RDX’s Snow mode will give you a bit more security as you creep along.

Available in the technology package, GPS-linked climate control is a feature that makes traveling more rewarding. While on the road, the system will automatically adjust the cabin temperature according to the outside conditions. This means you can stay comfortable while remaining focused on the task of driving.

All of the RDX’s available audio systems have the ability to keep music fans engaged. While a 12-speaker unit comes with the available Technology package, it’s not a huge upgrade over the standard nine-speaker system. The top-of-the-line, 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system is fabulous. Critics praise this premium audio system for its impressive sound. Engineers did a great job of balancing out the frequencies.