The 2011 Acura RDX continues to be a fun-to-drive compact crossover that has become popular with reviewers and drivers alike. It may not be the fanciest, largest, or most powerful vehicle in its market segment, but it has lot to offer anyone looking for nice performance at a relatively reasonable cost – prices start at $32,620 – in what can be a pricey neighborhood.

The RDX has taken hits for its less-than-impressive fuel mileage in the past, and Acura took steps to improve that last year when it introduced a front-wheel-drive version as the base trim. Previously, all models came with what the automaker calls its Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) system. That setup is designed not only for all-conditions handling, but also to improve performance in dry road conditions by distributing power based on weight distribution, which helps with cornering in particular.

The FWD ups the RDX’s gas mileage numbers to 19 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway. The SH-AWD gets 17/22. The trim list now includes Base, SH-AWD, Tech, and SH-AWD Tech.

A turbocharged 2.3-liter i-VTEC inline four-cylinder engine, putting out 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, powers all trims. Reviewers find that the powerplant, in part because the RDX checks in at less than 3,800 pounds, provides plenty of zip and it, along with the car’s handing, adds to the fun factor. So, too, does the five-speed automatic transmission that comes with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, which enable the driver to put the RDX through its paces manually.

Grab the shotgun or driver’s seat if you head out in the 2011 Acura RDX, because passengers up front receive first-class treatment, while things can get a bit cramped for adults in the back. Acura packs the 2011 RDX with standard features, such as leather seats, heated front seats, a 10-way adjustable driver’s seat, power moonroof, dual-zone climate control, and a 360-watt, seven-speaker AM/FM audio system with a CD player and XM satellite radio. A technology package is available, which includes a navigation system with real-time traffic reporting and voice recognition and bumps up the audio offerings.

A rear-view camera and a large and lockable center console storage area that will hold most 15-to-17-inch laptop computers come standard as well. The RDX’s other storage numbers aren’t bad, either. It boasts 27.8 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats and pushes that number to 60.6 cubic feet with rear seat cushions forward and seatbacks down.

The 2011 Acura RDX rates well in safety tests, receiving five stars for front and side impacts from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It features dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags. It also offers four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist and a vehicle stability assist system with traction control.