Acura’s compact SUV, the RDX, brings handling and ride quality to the forefront in 2009. The factory standard 204-hp, four-cylinder, 2.3-liter turbocharged engine powers a five-speed automatic transmission. Its all-wheel drive, coupled with a turbocharger, creates a recipe for driving excitement, as the RDX aims at the likes of the BMW X3 in performance and handling. It takes premium fuel and burns it at 17/22/19 mpg (city/highway/combined), according to the EPA. The RDX’s standard suspension system comes with a conditions-monitoring power-distribution system that adjusts power to each axle depending on traction. This system also gives the outside edge more turning speed for enhanced cornering. The RDX’s tire pressure monitoring system, right below the speedometer, will keep you in touch with your tires. The RDX’s optional technology package adds an impressive array of features, including a GPS-linked solar sensor as part of its automatic climate control. This lets the RDX know which side of the car is being baked in the sunlight and adjusts the air-conditioning accordingly. The 8-inch navigation screen in the center control panel provides lots of extra functionality - from street maps, directions, and restaurant reviews to real-time traffic updates, you’ll be in the know. It even responds to voice commands. Vehicle stability functions that, when engaged, measure potential instabilities and make corrections with tire speed and the antilock brakes are standard. The RDX offers protection with a six-airbag system: two front, two front side, and two side curtain airbags. The one optional security function is the rearview camera for safe reversals. The RDX lets you take what you want with you, because its center storage box is large enough to lock up most 15-to-17-inch laptop computers. You can also enable 60 cubic feet of storage by folding down the rear 60/40 seats.