Acura’s compact-sized RDX crossover SUV delivers strong performance combined good looks, classy interior and lots of tech features available at a lower cost than competitors. The RDX was all-new for the 2019 season and arrived on the Acura’s new platform with the turbo-4 power and advanced Super-handling all-wheel-drive system. The 2020 RDX is here with no significant changes. As for the next 2021 Acura RDX version, there is no evidence that the model would bring any major upgrade but rumors circulating about the possible introduction of the high-performance Type S version.
The prototype version of the rumored RDX Type S hasn’t been spotted on the roads to supports claims about its arrival and Acura hasn’t also commented on this matter. There are no signs about the addition of the hybrid powertrain for the new model year either. What we should expect are the upgraded tech features and changes in the equipment availability.
2021 Acura RDX: Design
Entering the third model year since the full redesign, the 2021 Acura RDX isn’t expected to bring any notable visual or structural upgrade. The current, third-generation Acura RDX uses the brand’s new platform which employs more than 50 percent high-tensile steel for increased rigidity. The model implements also the brand’s newest styling language which should also be applied to the new-generation Acura MDX.
The Acura RDX gets attention with muscular body lines, sleek roofline, bold wheels, modern headlights and attractive taillights. It comes also with sports-style bumpers. The next version should offer new wheel options and expand the color palette with new choices.
Unconfirmed reports and rumors circulating about the possible arrival of the 2021 Acura RDX Type S version. Rumors suggest that RDX Type S should get spottier bumpers, quad exhaust setup, performance wheels and Type S badging.
Interior, Equipment:
The current RDX features the brand’s fresh in-cab design and comes equipped with modern tech and safety systems. The model has a curvaceous dash with a high-standing main display. The RDX gets also high scores for the comfortable front seats and cargo capacity. The model offers up to 58.9 cubic feet behind the front seats while with all seats functional there are 29.5 cubic feet for the cargo.
The next 2021 Acura RDX won’t bring notable changes inside the cabin but there should be more standard equipment and improvements to the infotainment system.
The entry-level version will come with a large 10.2-inch center display and Apple car Play and Android Auto, synthetic leather seating, etc. The base equipment will also cover AcuraWatch suite of active safety systems including lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
For extra money, the model will add leather upholstery, navigation, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, etc. Available will also be upgrades such as ELS studio 3D surround sound system, a head-up display, adaptive suspension, surround-view cameras, etc.
2021 Acura RDX: Performance
The next 2021 Acura RDX should return with the same turbocharged engine shared with the energetic Honda Civic Type R. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes 272 hp and torque of 280 lb-ft. The engine operates combined with the smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. This combo provides above the average acceleration and the same is with the model’s handling. Available adaptive shocks absorbers refine the ride quality further.
The model will also offer the advanced Super-handling all-wheel-drive system which directs up to 70 percent of power toward the rear wheels. The torque-vectoring distributes up to 100 percent of power between the rear wheels.
The turbo-4-powered RDX with the front-wheel-drive should manage 22 mpg city and 28 highways. With the all-wheel-drive equipped the score should be 21 mpg city and 27 highways.
If the rumors about the type S version turn out to be correct, the new 2021 Acura RDX version should come with the potent 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine under the hood and significant power boost. The model would also equip the upgraded suspension and braking components combined with aerodynamic tweaks and high-performance wheels.
2021 Acura RDX: Release, Price
The 2021 Acura RDX should follow the brand’s usual release schedule and appear in late spring this year. The price range should stay close to the current. The base Acura RDX should be available at about $38, 000. With all upgrades installed the price will go above $45,000.