Description

Redesigned for the 2020 model year with edgier, more appealing body lines, the 2021 Acura RDX sets a new styling theme for the brand.

Except for a new extra-cost Platinum White body color, little has changed for the 2021 model year. Four trim levels are offered: base, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance.

Each RDX draws power from a strong 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine, yielding 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The turbo-4 mates with a slick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive. Optional all-wheel drive can shift 70 percent of power to rear wheels, to strengthen grip on curvy roads.

Three drive modes are available: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, along with a Snow choice that helps winter traction.

The 2021 Acura RDX earned top safety ratings from the IIHS, which made it a Top Safety Pick+. Headlights were judged “Good,” except for the Advance model, on which they were declared “Acceptable.”

The NHTSA gave Acura’s RDX a five-star crash-test score. Surprisingly, that government agency gave the RDX only a four-star rating for frontal collision. Rollover prevention (a calculated figure) also warranted four stars.

All RDX versions feature collision-avoidance technology, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and active lane control. Adjustable headrests also are standard. Blind-spot monitors are installed on all except the base model.

• 2.0L I-4 Engine
• 10-spd auto w/OD Transmission
• 272 @ 6,500 rpm Horsepower
• 280 @ 1,600 rpm Torque
• ABS and driveline Traction control
• 1st and 2nd row exterior express open/close sliding and tilting glass Sunroof
• 19″ silver aluminum Wheels
• Front air conditioning, dual zone automatic
• Driver and front passenger heated-cushion, heated-seatback Heated front seats
• SiriusXM AM/FM/HD/Satellite, seek-scan Radio
• 2 – 1st row LCD monitor
• Keyfob (all doors) Remote keyless entry
• Heated mirrors
• Leatherette Seat trim
• Driver and passenger Lumbar support