Not so long ago, almost every compact crossover SUV offered a V6 as a more powerful optional engine. Today, the optional engine is usually a turbocharged inline 4 that provides the same or better performance as the former V6, and improved fuel economy.
One exception is the Acura RDX, which is only available with a 3.5-liter V6. And perhaps surprisingly, it replaced the turbocharged 4 that was originally standard in the RDX a few years ago.
So what does Acura know that practically nobody elese does?
After a week of mixed driving in a 2017 model, Id say the 279-horsepower V6 pulls a little bit stronger than most of the turbos in the compact crossovers Ive tested and doesnt get much worse mileage theyre all about in the 18 to 22 mpg range in the real world. And since turbos are more complicated than normally aspirated engines, Acuras V6 might be more reliable over the long haul, although I havent heard of many newer turbos breaking down (as opposed to older ones, some of which had a lot problems).
So I guess the decision about whether to buy a 2017 Acura RDX comes down to the rest of the vehicle, and thats where it shines. Although Acura is Hondas luxury brand, its vehicles are priced between those offered by daily driver manufacturers and those from higher end builders, most notably, the Europeans. So for a little but more than an affordable family compact crossover, the Acura RDX offers more refinement and sophistication. And it costs less than a more premium compact crossover, even though the difference is relatively small.
The 2017 RDX is unchanged from the 2016 version, which is to say, it is still a well designed, good looking, quiet, and comfortable five-passenger crossover, with decent performance and reasonable mileage, thanks to the aforementioned V6. It comes with dual display screens that reduce the number of knobs and buttons needed to operate the infotainment system, which allows for a clean dash. Interior materials are high quality, increasing the affordable luxury feel.
On the road, the RDX's suspension is firm but not stiff, making the ride sporty but not punishing. The all-wheel-drive system does its job without being intrusive. The rear seat is surprisingly roomy for a compact crossover, and the cargo space was even more generous.
Our test RDX came with the Advance Package that increased the available comfort, convenience, entertainment, navigation and safety features to just about everything on the market, short of an autonomous driving system. Equipped like that, it listed for just over $44,000, which is only a little more of the base version of the European compact. But it also featured a package of dealer installed options, including 18-inch black alloy wheels, chrome roof rails, running boards and illuminated door sill trim pieces that pushed the price to nearly $48,000. They looked sharp, though.
The compact crossover SUV market is on fire these days, with manufacturers offering new and revised models practically every year, some with multiple engine choices. But we think the 2017 Acura RDX is still competitive, despite being unchanged from last year and coming with just one engine. The best way to know for sure is with a test drive.
2017 Acura RDX AWD
Base price: $35,570
Price as tested: $47,095
Type: Compact crossover SUV
Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (279 hp, 252 ft-lbs)
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
EPA estimated mileage: 19/27
Overall length: 184.4 inches
Curb weight: 3,743 to 3,946 pounds
Final assembly: East Liberty, Ohio