The compact luxury crossover market is sizzling hot these days. Encourage by falling gas prices, many consumers are turning their backs on small cars but are hedging their bets and not buying full-size cars or large SUVs. Instead, they are going for compact crossovers in droves, and substituting premium features for additional room.
The Acura RDX has been traditionally hard to beat in this segment. It has always looked sharp, had a well designed interior, and handled even broken pavement with ease. Early models offered an optional turbocharged four cylinder engine that was dropped in favor of a standard 3.5-liter V6 because of lack of interest. And the original Super-Handling All Wheel Drive system was replaced with a simpler and less expensive version, helping to hold costs down while still improving traction in slippery conditions.
The changes did nothing to affect the popularity of the RDX, which only received a minor refresh for 2016. On the outside, sharper creases, LED headlights and aero vents give the front end a more contemporary look. The interior was pretty much left alone, which means the dual display screens that reduce buttons and knobs on the dash are still available. And the engineers squeezed an additional six horsepower and one pound-foot of torque out of the engine without hurting its relatively good mileage.
Even a short drive in the 2016 Acura RDX is enough to demonstrate its strong points. It is remarkably quiet and comfortable, with the engine and transmission working flawlessly together to deliver smooth power. The list of standard equipment is lengthy, including entertainment, safety and technical features. Our test model came with AWD and Tech, Advance and Watch Plus packages that piled on the desirable options, from a navigation system with voice recognition to an upgraded stereo, heated and cooler front leather seats, and both blind spot and lane departure warning systems.
Altogether, the options pushed the price from the $35,270 to $44,340. That's still less than other similarly equipped luxury compact crossovers, however, especially those with European pedigrees which helps explain why see so many of them on the road these days. The Acura RDX may not have the most engine options or the most cutting edge styling, but it hits the sweet spot that appeals to so many buyers these days.
2016 Acura RDX
Base price: $35,270
Price as tested: $44,340
Type: Compact luxury crossover
Engine: 3.5 V6 (279 hp, 252 lbs-ft)
Transmission: 6-speed automatic with Sport mode
EPA estimated mileage: 19/28 (as tested)
Overall length: 184.4 inches
Curb weight: 3,737 to 3,946 pounds
2016 Acura East Liberty, Ohio