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The 2007 Acura RDX entered production in 2006 and is Acura’s first compact crossover SUV. The car was previewed as the Acura RD-X concept at the New York Auto Show and the production model hit showrooms on August 11th 2006. The trim packages available for the RDX are Base, Technology, SH-AWD and SH-AWD Technology. The MSRP ranges from $31,485 for the base model and $36,402 for a fully loaded RDX.

The Acura RDX took the MDX's place as the brand's entry-level crossover SUV, allowing the MDX to grow in size as well as in price. Although the RDX's size (180.7 inches in length, 73.6 inches in width, 65.2 inches in height) is similar to the Honda CR-V, the RDX uses a platform of its own, specially made to handle the advanced all-wheel drive system fitted within the car.

Propelling the RDX is Acura's 2.3 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that manages to produce 240 hp at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 260 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic gear box with paddle shift capability for a sportier driving experience.

The car performs very well, reaching 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds despite a curb weight of 3968 lb. That’s a mere 0.4 seconds slower than the 2000 Porsche Boxster. The RDX also runs the quarter mile in just 15.2 seconds at 90.4 mph. Impressive considering the BMW X3 3.0i and Mazda CX-7 both needed more than 8 seconds to top 60mph and more than 16 seconds to cover the mile.

Fuel consumption is comparable to others in the RDX's class with an EPA fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The six speed BMW X3 3.0i manages 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

Steering feel is very good, although the BMW X3 is more responsive during cornering. Body-roll is almost non-existent thanks to the refined all-wheel drive system. In addition, the MacPherson independent suspension in the front and multi link system at the rear are both nice touches. The stiff suspension provides improved stability at higher speeds, while sacrificing some comfort at lower speeds especially when the driving surface gets bumpy. The brakes are powerful and will stop the RDX from 60 in just 137 feet, again falling short of the BMW which requires only 118 feet.

Like most other members of the Acura family, the RDX excels in driver and passenger comfort fitting in well in the luxury SUV segment. The cabin is well appointed and the details and materials used are very well finished. The car is comfortable especially in the driver's seat, which offers a very comfortable driving position, thanks to the tilt and telescoping steering column. Front and rear access to the cockpit is effortless, and the second row can accommodate three adults comfortably. The buttons on the dashboard are very simple to operate, and the navigation, audio control and trip computer are easily operated by a large knob fitted on the center dash.

As far as safety is concerned, the Acura RDX is rated with five stars (top rating) by the federal government for all seating positions in frontal and side crash tests. The chance of rollover is rated at 15 percent. The IIHS also rated the car with a top mark of “Good” in frontal offset, side, and rear crash protection.

Acura fitted the RDX with standard ABS (anti-lock brakes) with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist. In terms of passive safety, the RDX features a six-airbag system which includes two front, two front-side, and two side-curtain airbags with coverage for the front and rear outboard seats.

The 2010 Acura MDX comes with a facelift including extensive modifications to the air intakes, fog lamps, and an updated grill. At the rear, the facelift consists of new hexagonal tailpipes, a redesigned rear bumper and new tail lamps.

More content on the Acura RDX:

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