The evolution of the luxury performance SUV took a significant leap forward with the 2007 arrival of the all-new Acura RDX turbocharged crossover vehicle and competitors quickly followed. The immediate response of Acura's first-ever turbocharged engine combined with the breakthrough technology of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™), the RDX delivers adrenaline pumping performance in an efficient SUV package. Marking its first full year of sales, the RDX has already captured 41-percent of the Entry Premium SUV segment, proving that its unique blend of performance and superior handling is hitting home with buyers looking for more than just the status quo from an SUV.
For 2008, the RDX receives a number of upgrades including standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® connectivity (previously available only on the Technology Package), a two-way position driver's seat memory, an auto-dimming Day/Night rearview mirror, along with a new Polished Metal Metallic exterior color scheme. RDX's bound for Hawaii will now have access to the navigation system's 1.7 million city and street names along with access to AcuraLink™ satellite communication with real-time traffic. Upgraded for 2008, real-time traffic includes 32 new major metropolitan locations for a total of 76 major areas.
"The RDX continues to gain momentum with customers in the Entry Premium SUV segment," said Dick Colliver, vice president sales, "It is a critical addition to our lineup and a hugely engaging vehicle from the standpoint of driving dynamics and technology."
The RDX was designed as the ideal vehicle for drivers with energetic lifestyles who are in need of a compact, sporty and responsive weekday ride, and a weekend getaway vehicle with the versatility to match their diverse and active recreational lifestyles.
True to Acura's leadership in the application of advanced technology, the RDX incorporates a class-leading array of features that keep passengers informed, entertained and in control. In addition to its sophisticated powertrain, the RDX is available with the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System with real-time traffic, and Acura Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™.
The RDX also incorporates leading safety technologies based on the fundamentals of Acura's "Safety Through Innovation" initiative, including advanced front, side and side curtain airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist ™ (VSA™), ABS with Brake Assist, and an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure.
Powertrain
The heart of the RDX's performance is its Variable Flow Turbo, (VFT) that delivers an unusually broad powerband with virtually no lag in throttle response. The RDX is equipped with a 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve in-line four-cylinder engine incorporating computer-controlled i-VTEC™ "intelligent" intake/exhaust valve actuation system that delivers enhanced performance across a broad powerband while still delivering superior fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions. The Variable Flow Turbo works in concert with i-VTEC to deliver excellent acceleration while driving at a variety of speeds.
Rated output for the RDX engine is 240 horsepower at 6000 rpm with 260 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. The RDX has an EPA fuel economy rating of 17/22 mpg* (city/highway) and meets the U.S. EPA's stringent Tier-2 Bin-5 (and CARB LEV-2 ULEV) exhaust emissions standards.
A performance-minded 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is standard on the RDX. An electronically-controlled drive-by-wire throttle system works with the transmission to execute exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The Sequential SportShift transmission can function as a conventional automatic transmission or, at the driver's option, can be shifted manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddles.
Chassis
Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system is standard on the RDX, helping it to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness. SH-AWD™ distributes optimum torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels. The system's direct yaw control helps reduce understeer thus enhancing steering accuracy and adding to total cornering ability.
Precise and responsive handling is further aided by fully independent front and rear suspensions. A MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension system is tuned for compliant control, and the suspension is assisted by large-diameter front and rear stabilizer bars for flatter cornering. Standard to the RDX is Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control to further enhance vehicle controllability and grip.
Exterior/Interior
RDX exterior styling further emphasizes the SUV's sporty athleticism. Standard 18-inch wheels and tires, large wheel arches, aggressively raked body sides, steeply raked windscreen, and a short rear overhang generate an RDX with a taut and muscular presence. A unique rear hatch, finished with a replaceable panel to reduce the cost of accident repair, allows for a smooth transition of the body to the rear bumper. Such bodywork transition delivers a more custom look as well as eases loading and unloading of cargo. Available for 2008 is a new exterior color named Polished Metal Metallic.
Inside the RDX, the front seats feature a high outward visibility "eye point" that provides a confident field of view. The 3-passenger rear seat has a 60/40 split-folding capability and, when folded flat, significantly expands the load area and increases the total cargo volume to 60.6 cubic feet. Multiple interior storage compartments are positioned throughout the interior, including a lockable dual-level center console that's large enough to accommodate a briefcase, located conveniently between the front seats.
The RDX features an array of electronic features that set it apart from the competition. Standard features include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a Multi-Information Display (MID), LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ mobile phone connectivity. Also standard is an impressive 360-watt 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with a multi-format 6-disc changer, AM/FM tuner, XM® Satellite Radio, and the convenience of an MP3/auxiliary input jack for easily connecting audio devices such as an iPod®.
Just one option package-the Technology Package-is offered on the RDX. The Technology Package heightens the RDX's appeal with tech-savvy customers through a range of advanced features. The centerpiece is a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround™ Premium Sound System designed by legendary recording engineer Elliott Scheiner. When playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-A), this advanced 410-watt system delivers eight discreet audio channels (up from the usual two channels) to create an exceptionally accurate listening experience. With its multi-format 6-disc DVD-A changer, AM/FM tuner and XM® Satellite Radio, the system is versatile and powerful.
The Technology Package also incorporates numerous information and communications features including Acura Navigation System and AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System with real-time traffic. Furthermore, AcuraLink™ allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, thus providing customers with the latest information and service requirements specific to their vehicle.
The real-time traffic feature of the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow, accident, construction and weather conditions on freeways in 76 metropolitan areas-an increase of 32 markets from 2007. When the transmission is placed in reverse, the Navigation screen displays a video image from a rearview camera to make parking easier.
Safety
The RDX's technology leadership also extends to safety, where a long list of advanced safety technologies, including an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure make the RDX one of only two luxury SUVs in its class to achieve both the U.S. government's top 5-star rating for both frontal and side impact crash tests, along with a "TOP SAFETY PICK" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The ACE™ body employs a network of interconnected front frame structures that work to absorb and redirect collision forces away from the passenger cabin while improving crash compatibility with vehicles of different sizes in a frontal collision. A special frame member located below the front bumper is designed to engage the front bumper of a lower vehicle, allowing the bumper systems of both vehicles to attenuate crash energy more efficiently.
Inside the RDX is a full complement of passive safety features. Key technologies include the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger along with side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. The passenger's side airbag features an Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) to prevent airbag deployment if a child or small-stature adult leans into the deployment path. LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat mounting systems allow the quick and secure installation of a child seats.
In addition, a specially engineered hood, collapsible hood hinges, breakaway wiper pivots and other features help reduce the chances of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision with the vehicle.
The RDX is assembled in America at the company's Marysville, Ohio, auto plant. The RDX is built on the same assembly line as the Acura TL luxury performance sedan.
Like all Acura models, the 2008 RDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care® (TLC®), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service, and trip routing.
Acura
Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 268 dealers within the United States. The 2008 Acura lineup features five distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV and the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle.
For additional information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries, please go to www.acuranews.com.
*Based on 2008 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.