Acura RDX A-Spec 2023 review, test | Road tests

• Auto123 tests the 2023 Acura RDX A-Spec.

Acura’s good financial health depends, like many other manufacturers, on its SUVs more than on its cars. The gap between RDX and MDX sales and those of the ILX/RLX/TLX trio is huge (we’ll see if the next Integra can buck the trend). So it’s no surprise that the RDX is getting a lot of love from the brand, its designers, and its engineers.

So the model is entitled to a new engine, a new transmission and a new design. But is it conclusive?

2024 Acura RDX A-Spec technical sheet

2024 Acura RDX Platinum Elite A-Spec technical sheet

l’Acura RDX A-Spec 2023 Model – 8/10

The RDX’s grille is huge, and the way the undistinguished version of the A-Spec looks to point at you is a nice sleight of hand by the designers. It’s a little crazier than what the Lexus RX F-Sport offers, which seeks to appeal to more or less the same buyers.

The changes don’t stop there. Contrasting color accents inside the doors, demarcation lines that run all around and half-fender flares really differentiate the new RDX from the old one. It’s rare to see such a different approach when a new style replaces an old one.

I understand that it might appeal to younger buyers, but they don’t buy that many cars. It is mostly the 45-65 age group that worries me. Is the new design too daring for these people? Either way, for younger or older buyers who want a little color, the model is available in red or blue that add a little… color.

2023 Acura RDX A-Spec Interior | Photo: D. Heyman

2023 Acura RDX A-Spec Interior – 8.5/10

The cabinet is very interesting, starting with that silver measuring column, very cold I’m going for red chairs. The ambience is sportier than that found in a luxury SUV, and reflects the RDX’s versatility on the road. The TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen between the two main dials is optional, but the most interesting is the latter. The Dynamic Mode dial is smooth and pleasant to the touch.

Space is also practical. Headroom is generous front and rear, but the real strength is the storage on offer. The presence of an electronic gear selector allows to increase the space under it. Includes wireless charging pad – connection is intermittent. The central storage space is large and the cup holders are surrounded by space for mobile phones or wallets. The spaces inside the doors are large and have cups that can hold water bottles.

What’s even better is what’s in the back, especially under the rear cargo floor. One barrel spans the entire surface and is large enough to carry a purse and other items, while the other, smaller barrel sits at the back. Going away for the weekend? Everything can fit under the floor.

2023 Acura RDX A-Spec multimedia screen | Photo: D. Heyman

Touchpad in 2023 Acura RDX A-Spec | Photo: D. Heyman

2023 Acura RDX A-Spec Technology – 6.5/10

Well, we have to talk about this touchpad of the multimedia system.

You have to slide your finger on the touchpad – instead of touching certain areas. It is not intuitive. In fact, it’s quite annoying and there’s no touchscreen as a second option. So you have to deal with this touchpad. The system includes CarPlay and Android Auto apps (wireless connectivity), but even there you won’t escape this touchpad. You have to go through it.

2023 Acura RDX A-Spec Exterior Design | Photo: D. Heyman

Driving 2023 Acura RDX A-Spec – 8.5/10

Despite all the changes that Acura and Honda have gone through over the years, one thing remains: the luxury brand makes cars that are a lot of fun to drive, and more so than many rivals that cost more.

So I had high expectations for this new RDX.

Straight up, I love the fact that Acura has gone back to turbo power for this generation. The original RDX was equipped with that, and while the naturally aspirated V6 it replaced was powerful, it wasn’t fuel efficient.

Today, although the turbo engine makes less power than the old V6, for a total of 272 horsepower, it produces 280 lb-ft of torque, nearly 30 lb-ft more than the V6, with the added bonus of better fuel economy. . The sound is excellent, but be careful, the soundproofing for the occupants is not that offered by some rivals like the Infiniti QX50 or the Mercedes GLC 300.

If you’re looking for a car with sporty street performance, the RDX is a great choice, and you step it up a notch with the Platinum Elite package (available on my model). Adaptive dampers allow a firm ride when the system deems it necessary – for example, on a hilly road with the use of Sports Mode – and a smoother setting for a smooth ride in the city.

The Super-Handling AWD (SH-AWD) all-wheel drive, meanwhile, can send up to 70% of power to the rear wheels, providing a light feel worthy of a sports car, especially in Sport mode. I’m also glad that the RDX doesn’t come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), but instead a 10-speed with paddle shifters (standard).

Preview the all-new 2023 Acura RDX A-Spec | Photo: D. Heyman

Some of your questions about the 2023 Acura RDX A-Spec

What does the A-Spec Platinum Elite package add over the A-Spec package?
In addition to adjustable dampers, you get a head-up display, front seats with 16 power adjustments, heated rear seats, rear air conditioning, a 360-degree camera and unique 20-inch wheels.

Is it possible to get an RDX without A-Spec or AWD in 2023?
One of two A-Spec versions is your only choice for 2023; no “standard” or Type S options In Canada, all RDXs come standard with SH-AWD all-wheel drive, while the American version includes a front-wheel drive option.

The last word
RDX performs very well in almost every area. It is very maneuverable. I love the look of it and its turbocharger is a gem. The interior is nice and modern, and the dashboard is a sight to behold. But there is this unloved touchpad, useful for accessing the multimedia system. Although this may seem insignificant among all the good features of the model, it is not. In fact, for many buyers, the quality of the multimedia system tops their list of priorities, and I can’t help but think that hurts Acura in this segment.

Acura RDX A-Spec 2023 gray | Photo : D. Heyman

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