2010 Acura RDX

The Acura RDX compact crossover SUV receives a number of exterior updates for 2010, which give it a freshened, more aggressive look. New exterior features include a revised front fascia with functional openings designed to feed air into the radiator and turbocharger, an angular grille with Acura's signature chrome bar “plenum," a new front edge design on the RDX's low hood, and a smoke-style chrome plating treatment for the xenon high-intensity headlights, which are now controlled by an automatic on/off function. The RDX also receives new rectangular exhaust tips, satin trim accents, revised taillights, and new 18-inch aluminum wheels for 2010.

In addition, for the first time in 2010, Acura offers the RDX in front-wheel-drive trims, in addition to the all-wheel-drive versions offered in previous years. Because of the reduced weight of the front-wheel-drive trims, they manage better fuel economy and cost less than the all-wheel-drive trims, according to Acura. In addition, Acura added to the RDX's standard equipment list for 2010. New standard features include a rear-view camera, an electronic compass, and ambient footwell lighting. The center console now comes equipped with a storage tray, and a new USB port enables connections for an iPhone, iPod, or USB memory stick. Finally, Acura upgraded the RDX's braking system for 2010, so it provides a better feel and improved durability, according to the automaker.

Now in its fourth year in production, the Acura RDX comes in four trims for 2010. In addition to the base front-wheel-drive trim and the base SH-AWD trim, which comes equipped with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) system, the RDX is available with the Technology Package, in both front-wheel- and all-wheel-drive trims. The Technology package adds an Acura navigation system with voice recognition, a rearview camera, and a GPS-linked, solar-sensing automatic climate control system. The RDX Tech trims also come equipped with the AcuraLink satellite communication system with real-time traffic and an upgraded 10-speaker Acura/ELS surround-sound audio system with a 6-CD changer.

All 2010 RDX trims feature a driver-oriented cockpit, which gives the driver easy access to a range of electronic functions. Standard features include leather seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. A power moonroof, dual-zone climate control, and a 360-watt, seven-speaker AM/FM audio system with a CD player, XM satellite radio, and an MP3 input jack also come standard.

For an SUV its size, the RDX offers plenty of interior room and adequate cargo space. With the rear seats up and in place, the RDX offers a respectable 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 60.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. While adequate for many drivers, cargo space lacks in comparison to some competitors, such as the BMW X3, which offers a maximum of 71 cubic feet of cargo space.

A turbocharged, 2.3-liter DOHC i-VTEC inline four-cylinder (I4) engine drives all RDX trims. The engine produces 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and links to a five-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift mode, enabling drivers to upshift or downshift using F1-style paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. Front-wheel-drive trims achieve fuel economy numbers of 19/24 mpg, while all-wheel-drive trims manage 17/22 mpg. The RDX runs on premium unleaded fuel.

Safety features for the RDX include dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags. In addition, the RDX comes equipped with four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist and a Vehicle Stability Assist system with traction control, which helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle in tight turns or slippery road conditions.

By R. Feeman