The 2011 Acura RDX is a nimble and comfortable compact SUV that has plenty of high-tech features. The Acura RDX used to be the obvious choice for luxury compact SUV buyers.
Other Luxury SUVs to Consider
If you don’t need the sporty feel of the RDX, consider getting the Volvo XC60. Like the RDX, it has plenty of high-tech safety features.
Details: Acura RDX
The RDX comes in two trim levels -- the base and the RDX with Technology Package. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional
Some say the 2011 Acura RDX looks like a metal-beaked angry chicken. Whatever the reason, though, the RDX deserves better.
For one, the Acura RDX is one of the most pleasing compact crossovers to drive. Complementing the RDX's swift acceleration is the optional "Super Handling" All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that truly makes this Acura stand out from the pack. The 2011 Acura RDX is a five-passenger compact luxury crossover available in a single trim level. The 2011 Acura RDX is powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. With front-wheel drive, the RDX went from zero to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds in Edmunds testing, making this Acura one of the quickest crossovers in the class. In terms of fuel economy, the front-drive RDX is rated at an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined, while the SH-AWD version rates 17/22/19.
Safety
The Acura RDX comes standard with antilock brakes (with brake assist), stability and traction control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. In Edmunds brake testing, a front-drive RDX came to a stop from 60 mph in a reasonable distance of 125 feet.
Driving Impressions
The 2011 Acura RDX's audible turbo whooshing sound is a pleasant departure from the standard six-cylinder soundtracks in this segment. With Acura's signature SH-AWD, the RDX's handling is improved further, yanking this little ute around corners with poise and tenacious grip.
Blending a smart balance of sport and utility, the 2011 Acura RDX offers a "right sized" package matched with a turbocharged powertrain and the available sure-footedness of Acura’s acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ - all wrapped in supple luxury.
The evolution of the luxury performance SUV took a significant leap forward with the arrival of the Acura RDX turbocharged crossover vehicle. With two models available in two trim choices, the 2011 RDX offers something for everyone. Externally, the 2011 RDX has an aggressive, sporty appearance thanks to bold front and rear fascias, Acura’s signature grille, pronounced wheel arches, 18-inch 10-spoke aluminum wheels and upscale trim accents.