The 2024 Acura RDX continues to solidify its position in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment, offering a blend of performance, technology, and sophisticated design. For those in the market or simply curious about what the latest RDX has to offer, this comprehensive guide dives into the specifications, key features, and available trim levels of the 2024 Acura RDX.
Power and Performance Under the Hood
At the heart of every 2024 Acura RDX lies a potent Turbo Aluminum-alloy 4-Cylinder engine. This engine, consistent across all trim levels—RDX, Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance—delivers a robust 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,600-4,500 rpm. The mono-scroll turbocharger ensures responsive power delivery across the rev range, making for an engaging driving experience in various conditions.
The engine features a 16-Valve, DOHC VTEC® valvetrain and direct fuel injection, contributing to both performance and efficiency. With a 9.8:1 compression ratio and a Drive-by-Wire Throttle System, the RDX engine is engineered for optimal responsiveness and smooth operation. An Idle Stop feature further enhances fuel efficiency in city driving. The engine is rated as ULEV50 for emissions, reflecting Acura’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the Tune-Up Interval is an impressive 100k +/- Miles No Scheduled Tune-Ups, reducing maintenance costs and increasing convenience.
(Imagine an image of the 2024 Acura RDX engine bay here)
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Alt text: Close-up view of the 2024 Acura RDX engine bay, showcasing the Turbo Aluminum-alloy 4-Cylinder engine.
Drivetrain and Handling Dynamics
The 2024 Acura RDX comes standard with SH-AWD® (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™) across all trims. This advanced all-wheel-drive system is a hallmark of Acura, providing exceptional traction and control in various driving conditions, from dry pavement to snow and rain. Power is delivered through a smooth and responsive 10-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters, giving drivers the option for a more engaging, manual-like shifting experience.
The transmission’s gear ratios are carefully calibrated for optimal performance and fuel economy, with a wide range from a 5.25 1st gear to a fuel-efficient 0.52 10th gear. The Final Drive ratio is 4.17, contributing to the RDX’s balanced performance. For those needing to tow, the Acura RDX offers a Towing Capacity of 1500 lbs.
(Imagine an image of the Acura SH-AWD system in action, perhaps a diagram or a car cornering)
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Alt text: Diagram illustrating the Acura Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system and its torque vectoring capabilities for enhanced handling.
The chassis of the 2024 RDX is designed for a comfortable yet controlled ride. It features a MacPherson Strut Front Suspension and a Multi-Link Rear Suspension. Stabilizer bars (30.0 mm front / 23.0 mm rear) further enhance stability and reduce body roll during cornering. The base and Technology trims are equipped with Amplitude Reactive Dampers, while the A-Spec and Advance trims upgrade to an Adaptive Damper System for a more refined and dynamically adjustable ride. Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS) is standard, along with Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and Agile Handling Assist®, allowing drivers to customize the driving experience and further enhance handling agility. Braking is handled by Ventilated Front Disc / Solid Rear Disc Brakes (12.4 in. / 12.2 in.).
Wheel options vary by trim. The standard RDX comes with 19 x 8.0J Sparkle Silver Multi-Spoke Aluminum-Alloy Wheels, the Technology trim features 19 x 8.0J Pewter Gray Machine-Finished Multi-Spoke Aluminum-Alloy Wheels, and the A-Spec steps up to 20 x 8.0J Shark Gray Split 5-Spoke Aluminum-Alloy Wheels. The Advance and A-Spec Advance trims feature 19 x 8.0J Shark Gray Machine-Finished and 20 x 8.0J Shark Gray Multi-Spoke Aluminum-Alloy Wheels respectively. All trims are equipped with all-season tires, with the A-Spec and A-Spec Advance trims sporting wider 255/45 R20 tires for enhanced grip. The Steering Ratio (Variable) is 12.0, and the Turning Diameter, Curb to Curb is 38.9 ft., providing good maneuverability in urban environments.
Dimensions and Cargo Space: Practical Luxury
The 2024 Acura RDX offers a spacious interior and practical dimensions for everyday usability. Exterior dimensions are consistent across all trims, with a Length of 187.4 inches, Width of 74.8 inches, and Height of 65.7 inches. The Wheelbase measures 108.3 inches, and the Track is 64.2 inches (front) and 64.7 inches (rear). The Ground Clearance (unladen) is a respectable 8.2 inches, providing confidence in various road conditions.
(Imagine an image showcasing the exterior dimensions of the 2024 Acura RDX, maybe an angled side view)
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Alt text: Side profile view of the 2024 Acura RDX highlighting its dimensions, emphasizing its length and ground clearance.
Inside, the RDX provides ample space for passengers and cargo. Headroom is 40.0 inches in the first row and 38.0 inches in the second row. Legroom is generous at 42.0 inches (front) and 38.0 inches (rear). Shoulder Room measures 60.0 inches (front) and 57.0 inches (rear), while Hiproom is 55.0 inches (front) and 50.0 inches (rear). The EPA Passenger Volume is a roomy 104.0 cu ft.
Cargo capacity is a strong point for the RDX. Cargo Volume behind the First Row is 58.9 cu ft. (Standard) / 79.8 cu ft. (Max), and Cargo Volume behind the Second Row is 29.5 cu ft. (Standard) / 31.1 cu ft. (Max). These figures are based on the SAE J1100 cargo volume measurement standard.
(Imagine an image of the 2024 Acura RDX cargo area with the rear seats folded down)
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Alt text: Open cargo area of the 2024 Acura RDX with the rear seats folded down, illustrating its spaciousness and practicality.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The 2024 Acura RDX, despite its strong performance, maintains respectable fuel economy figures. EPA Fuel Economy Ratings (City/Highway/Combined) for the RDX, Technology, and Advance trims are 21 / 27 / 23 mpg. The A-Spec and A-Spec Advance trims have slightly different highway ratings at 21 / 26 / 23 mpg. Acura recommends Premium Unleaded 91 Octane fuel for optimal performance. The Fuel Tank Capacity is 17.1 U.S. gallons.
AcuraWatch™ and Safety Features: Driving with Confidence
Safety is paramount in the 2024 Acura RDX, which comes standard with the AcuraWatch™ suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. This comprehensive suite includes:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) System
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW) System
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI)
- Pedestrian Detection
- Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM)
- Low Speed Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Auto High-Beam Headlights
(Imagine an image showcasing AcuraWatch safety features in action, maybe a graphic overlay on a car driving scenario)
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Alt text: Infographic highlighting key AcuraWatch safety and driver-assistance features available in the 2024 Acura RDX, such as lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
In addition to AcuraWatch™, the 2024 RDX boasts a robust suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, including the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure, multiple airbags including Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Front Airbags (SRS), Next-Generation Passenger Front Airbag, Front Side Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags, and Front Knee Airbags. Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control, 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist are also standard. Other features include LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Tire Fill Assist, and a Theft-Deterrent System with Electronic Immobilizer. A Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines and Maintenance Minder™ System further enhance safety and convenience. Parking Sensors (Front & Rear) are added starting from the Technology trim. The Advance and A-Spec Advance trims further enhance safety with a Head-Up Warning Display (HUW) and Surround-View Camera System.
Technology, Convenience, and Interior Features: A Premium Cabin
The 2024 Acura RDX is packed with technology and convenience features to enhance the driving and passenger experience. The centerpiece of the interior is the True Touchpad Interface™ paired with a 10.2-Inch HD Dual-Content Center Display. A 7-Inch Color Multi-Information Display (MID) is located in the instrument cluster. Starting with the Advance and A-Spec Advance trims, a 10.5-Inch Head-Up Display (HUD) is included.
Connectivity features are abundant, with Wireless Apple CarPlay® Compatibility, Wireless Android Auto™ Compatibility, Alexa Built-In, and Siri® Eyes Free. Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® Wireless Telephone Interface and Bluetooth® Streaming Audio are standard. A Wi-Fi Hotspot Capability is included for on-the-go connectivity. The Acura Navigation System with 3D View is available from the Technology trim upwards. AcuraLink® Connected Services and Natural Language Voice Recognition further enhance the connected experience.
Audio systems vary by trim level. The base RDX features a Premium Audio System with 9 Speakers. The Technology trim upgrades to an ELS Studio® Premium Audio System with 12 Speakers. The A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance trims boast the top-of-the-line ELS Studio 3D® Premium Audio System with 16 Speakers. A Wireless Charging Pad (Qi) is standard from the Technology trim, and multiple USB ports are available throughout the cabin. SiriusXM®, HD Radio®, and MP3/Auxiliary Input Jack provide a variety of audio sources.
(Imagine an image of the 2024 Acura RDX interior, highlighting the dashboard, touchscreen, and premium materials)
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Alt text: Interior shot of the 2024 Acura RDX dashboard, showcasing the True Touchpad Interface, 10.2-inch display screen, and premium cabin design.
Comfort and convenience features include Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control with Humidity Control and Air Filtration and Keyless Access System with Acura Personalized Settings. Pushbutton Ignition, Electronic Gear Selector, and Power Windows with Auto-Up/Down and Auto-Reverse are standard. Front seats are power-adjustable and heated across all trims, with ventilation and heated rear seats added on higher trims. The steering column is tilt and telescopic, and the steering wheel is leather-wrapped. Higher trims feature upgraded leather and Ultrasuede® seating surfaces, and sport steering wheels. Ambient LED Cabin Lighting and Iconic Drive™ Ambient LED Cabin Lighting (27 Themes) (on higher trims) create a sophisticated atmosphere. A Panoramic Roof with Tilt and Slide Function is standard on all trims, bringing in natural light and fresh air.
Trim Levels: Tailoring the RDX to Your Preferences
The 2024 Acura RDX is offered in several trim levels, allowing buyers to choose the features and styling that best suit their needs and preferences:
- RDX (Base): Well-equipped with standard features including AcuraWatch™, SH-AWD®, panoramic roof, and premium audio.
- Technology: Adds navigation, upgraded ELS Studio® audio, wireless charging pad, parking sensors, and premium leather-trimmed interior.
- A-Spec: Sportier styling with unique exterior and interior design elements, 20-inch wheels, and Ultrasuede® seating surfaces.
- Advance: The most luxurious trim, adding adaptive dampers, head-up display, surround-view camera, heated rear seats, and open-pore wood trim.
- A-Spec Advance: Combines the sporty A-Spec styling with the luxury features of the Advance trim.
(Imagine a collage image showcasing the different trim levels of the 2024 Acura RDX, highlighting unique styling cues)
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Alt text: Collage image showcasing the various 2024 Acura RDX trim levels – RDX, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance – highlighting their distinct exterior styling and wheel designs.
Conclusion: The 2024 Acura RDX – A Well-Rounded Luxury SUV
The 2024 Acura RDX delivers a compelling package in the luxury SUV segment. With its powerful turbocharged engine, standard SH-AWD®, generous cargo space, comprehensive AcuraWatch™ safety suite, and a range of technology and luxury features across its trim levels, the RDX is a strong contender for those seeking a premium and versatile vehicle. Whether you prioritize sporty styling, advanced technology, or ultimate luxury, the 2024 Acura RDX offers a configuration to meet your needs.