The Acura RDX stepped into its third generation in 2018 and immediately made a splash in the compact luxury SUV market. Praised for its striking A-Spec design and agile all-wheel-drive system, the RDX set a high bar. The 2021 model year largely maintains the successful formula, reaffirming its position as a compelling option for those seeking a premium SUV with a sporty edge. This 2021 Acura Rdx Review delves into what makes this vehicle continue to stand out in a competitive segment.
Interior Technology: AcuraLink and the True Touchpad Interface
Inside the 2021 Acura RDX, the dashboard is dominated by a sophisticated infotainment system. At the heart of it is a 10.2-inch HD dual-content display, designed for intuitive multitasking through a split-screen layout. This system is powered by AcuraLink, offering a suite of connected services and features.
Navigation through the system is managed by the innovative True Touchpad Interface located on the center console. Unlike traditional touchpads, this one uses absolute positioning. This means that touching a specific point on the touchpad directly corresponds to the same location on the display screen. This direct mapping allows for quicker menu navigation once you become accustomed to the layout. A scroll bar to the right of the touchpad further enhances usability, allowing for quick toggling of sidebar content. A dedicated multitasking button simplifies content swapping between the main and sidebar displays. Physical ‘Back’ and ‘Home’ buttons are also conveniently placed near the touchpad.
While the True Touchpad offers a unique and ultimately efficient control method, it does come with a learning curve. The precision required, especially for tasks like text input, can be initially challenging, particularly for passenger use. For destination entry, the robust natural language voice recognition system is a helpful alternative. Despite the initial adjustment, many drivers find the True Touchpad and AcuraLink system preferable to competitors like Lexus’ Remote Touchpad and Enform systems, appreciating the larger, easier-to-target interface elements. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration further expand connectivity and app access.
Beyond the central display, the RDX’s tech features extend to the driver’s cockpit. A 7-inch color multi-information display is integrated within the instrument cluster, featuring A-Spec specific red illumination. The climate control system is GPS-linked, optimizing cabin temperature management based on sun position. The Advance trim elevates the tech experience further with a 10.5-inch head-up display, projecting key driving information directly into the driver’s line of sight.
Driving Dynamics and Performance of the 2021 RDX
Under the hood, the 2021 Acura RDX is powered by a responsive 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 272 horsepower and a substantial 280 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and spirited maneuvers. The engine is paired with a smooth and efficient 10-speed automatic transmission, controlled via an electronic gear selector and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for those who desire more manual control.
The RDX offers drivers some customization over driving feel through the Dynamic Mode selector. This prominent knob on the center console allows switching between Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport Plus modes. Each mode adjusts throttle response, traction control, and even engine sound, tailoring the driving experience to different conditions and preferences. While generally intuitive, the selector’s placement and design can sometimes lead to accidental mode changes when reaching for what appears to be the volume knob.
A key performance feature, especially for driving enthusiasts, is Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. While front-wheel drive is standard, upgrading to SH-AWD is highly recommended. Beyond providing enhanced traction in adverse weather, SH-AWD significantly improves handling and driving enjoyment, even on dry roads. This system can send up to 70% of engine torque to the rear wheels and features torque vectoring across the rear axle. In corners, SH-AWD actively distributes power to the outside rear wheel, aiding in turning and enhancing stability. This advanced system results in noticeably improved agility, making the RDX feel smaller and more nimble than its size might suggest, particularly in mid-speed cornering scenarios.
However, the RDX, being a comfort-focused SUV, has its limits. SH-AWD’s cornering benefits are most pronounced under throttle; in slow, off-throttle corners, the vehicle can feel less dynamic. The comfort-tuned suspension also means that while handling is competent, it’s not designed for aggressive corner carving. Nonetheless, the RDX strikes a good balance, offering engaging handling within the realm of a comfortable and practical SUV. Fuel economy for SH-AWD models is EPA-rated at 23 mpg combined (21 city/26 highway) using premium fuel. Real-world testing may yield slightly lower figures, depending on driving style and conditions.
AcuraWatch: Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2021 Acura RDX prioritizes safety with the standard AcuraWatch suite of driver-assistance technologies. Even the base RDX model includes forward collision warning with collision mitigation braking assist, full-speed adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane-keeping steering assist, and road departure mitigation. Standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and LED taillights also contribute to enhanced visibility and safety.
For further safety enhancements, the Technology package adds front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The top-tier Advance package includes a surround-view camera system and a rear camera washer.
A-Spec Trim: Sporty Appearance Enhancement
The Acura RDX trim lineup offers a range of choices, with the Technology package often considered the sweet spot for its balance of features and value. The Advance package maximizes luxury and comfort with features like adaptive damping suspension and acoustic side glass. Positioned in between is the A-Spec package, which maintains the Technology package features but prioritizes a sportier aesthetic over the ultimate comfort of the Advance trim.
The A-Spec is primarily an appearance package, bringing visual enhancements without mechanical performance upgrades. Exterior A-Spec elements include dual exhaust outlets, dark-finish 20-inch alloy wheels, glossy black trim, a unique rear spoiler, and a Black Diamond grille design. Darker headlight and taillight internals further contribute to the more aggressive look. A-Spec badging is present both externally and internally.
Inside, the A-Spec trim features unique leather-trimmed sport seats with UltraSuede inserts, available in striking red, and offering heating and ventilation. UltraSuede accents are also found throughout the cabin, complemented by red accent lighting and sport pedals, completing the sporty interior ambiance.
Pricing and Competition in the Luxury Compact SUV Segment
The 2021 Acura RDX starts at a competitive price point of $39,225 (including destination charges) for the base front-wheel-drive model. Upgrading to SH-AWD is a worthwhile $2,000 investment, and the Technology package, at $2,900, adds significant value with its safety and technology features. The A-Spec package represents a $3,000 step up from the Technology package, focusing on visual appeal. The tested SH-AWD A-Spec model comes in at $47,125.
The compact luxury SUV segment is fiercely contested, with the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC often considered benchmarks. While the RDX may not reach the same level of outright luxury as its German rivals, it offers a compelling blend of premium features, engaging driving dynamics (especially with SH-AWD), and a more accessible price point. Compared to the Lexus RX and Volvo XC60, the RDX presents a better value proposition when comparably equipped, making it a strong contender in its class. However, unlike some competitors, the 2021 RDX lineup lacks hybrid or high-performance variants, which may be a consideration for buyers seeking those options.
Conclusion: The 2021 Acura RDX – A Well-Rounded and Appealing Choice
In conclusion, this 2021 Acura RDX review highlights a vehicle that remains a top contender in the compact luxury SUV segment. It impresses with its sharp styling, particularly in A-Spec trim, a user-friendly and tech-forward interior, and the engaging driving experience provided by the available SH-AWD system. While the True Touchpad interface may require some initial acclimatization, and the lineup lacks high-performance or hybrid options, the 2021 Acura RDX delivers a well-rounded package with strong value, making it a highly recommendable choice for discerning SUV buyers.
