2013 Acura RDX

In April, Acura will introduce the second generation RDX sport utility vehicle. Acura has taken the lessons learned from the first generation RDX and fashioned a new vehicle designed to improve upon the outgoing car.  Among the enhancements are improved fuel economy, a new transmission, and an all-new all wheel drive system.  The new AWD system replaces the SH-AWD from the earlier car with a lighter, more efficient system.  Although we'll lose the torque vectoring, I'd be the first to admit that few fully exploited it's benefits in day to day driving.  It's likely the new system will provide those that need AWD with an effective solution for all-weather driving with less of a fuel economy penalty.

The RDX will continue with a four-wheel independent suspension system and  new "Amplitude Reactive Dampers" will improve the ride quality by allowing for more complance when the vehicle encounters large changes such as a pothole in the road, but under normal conditions, remain firm for a controlled ride.

While the previous RDX was popular with people looking for "sports sedan handling" in a small SUV, the penalty was a pretty firm ride.  In order to broaden the cars appeal, Acura has concentrated their efforts on quieting the cabin and improving ride quality.  As with all Acuras, judicious use of sound deadening material does its part, but the new RDX will also feature Active Sound Control to electronically dampen offensive noises. 

Other improvements include larger door openings and a wider tailgate opening, wider by a full 6.5 inches.  Both passenger and cargo space have been improved and for the first time, a Power Liftgate is available (Tech Package).  Other luxury items include Keyless Entry w/Push Button start, Leather Trimmed Seats and a  Multi-View Rear View Camera. 

Replacing the 240 hp turbocharged four-cylinder is a 3.5 L V-6 making 273 hp.  This will be mated to a new six speed automatic transmission for improved fuel economy and refinement.  For the first time in an Acura this new engine will feature Variable Cylinder Management (VCM).  This system can shut down two or three cylinders under light engine loads in order to improve fuel economy.

If everything goes according to plan, we should have a 2013 RDX at the First Hawaiian Bank International Auto Show which runs from Friday, March 30th through Sunday, April 1st.  This would be a few days in advance of the official on sale date of April 2nd.