2015 Acura RDX Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Redesigned for 2013, the Acura RDX gets refreshed for 2015 to include a new frame built specifically to absorb collision impacts plus...

Redesigned for 2013, the Acura RDX gets refreshed for 2015 to include a new frame built specifically to absorb collision impacts plus reactive dampers and adaptive steering. In other words unless you're a stickler for crash test scores and the finer nuances of driving dynamics, you shouldn't notice any significant changes between the 2015 and 2014 model years—and that's just fine by brand fans.

That said, the RDX is doing Acura no favors in the argument to switch makers. Everyone trading in a Lexus notes the RDX rides a bit rougher than they expected out of a luxury compact crossover, just as one example. Other drivers note the lack of features like a power liftgate unless you opt for the top-of-the-line seems cheap, while still more drivers say a fully loaded RDX is overpriced for what you get, including the same navigation system Acura has used since 2004.

Whether the 2015 RDX will see any updates in these areas is still unknown, but we do know for certain the same engine and general feature sets carry over without any major changes. Year over year, the 2015 RDX is only a few hundred bucks more than the 2014. If anything beyond the frame, dampers and steering changes, it's not going to be a big change.

Its most comparable competitor is Volvo's XC60, which is the only other compact crossover with class-leading rear legroom alongside more than 60 cubic feet available for cargo via a split-folding rear bench. While the XC60 offers a bit more cargo carrying capacity than the RDX (67 cubic feet plus a standard roof rack versus 61.3 cubes in the RDX and no rack), the RDX's V6 is a bit more fuel efficient with the same 0-60 mph benchmarking time as the XC60's top-shelf R-Design. Both are just as sporting in terms of driving character, and both are just as polarizing in terms of style, but the XC60 is more popular by a long shot.

Nevertheless, drivers seeking a more engaging experience than the Volvo come to Acura's RDX for good reason. The 3.5-liter V6 spouts out 273 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque for a thunderous 6.5-second trip to 60 mph while getting 20 mpg city/28 highway with the default front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup. All-wheel drive (AWD) is optional for any RDX but drops that economy to 19/27—only marginally better than the XC60 with AWD, and premium fuel is recommended for the Acura. A 6-speed automatic transmission is obligatory.

As before, the RDX comes in one well-equipped trim with the option of a Technology upgrade that adds xenon headlights, a power liftgate, navigation system, voice commands, GPS- and solar-aware automatic climate control, and a 10-speaker Surround Sound audio system with 15GB of music storage.