Forced induction. It’s the technology behind turbochargers, widely used by companies like Subaru, Volkswagen, and Saab to harness more power from, typically, four-cylinder motors. The benefits are substantial gains in ponies and torque, with the biggest detraction being lag (that moment of sluggishness between hitting the accelerator and having the turbo spool up). But one major player, Honda, has thus far invested in naturally-aspirated alternatives, with the result being a market devoid of turbocharged Civics and Acura models. Variable valve timing allows for impressive horsepower, but torque never registered as a strong selling point for these cars.
, a small SUV that marks Honda’s first foray into the forced induction arena. And with sexy looks, an advanced and capable all-wheel-drive system, and genuine utility, the
promises to transport up to five people in style and comfort…and rather quickly.
What it is Built on an all-new light-truck platform, the 2007 Acura RDX is a small, five-passenger SUV that will be built in Honda’s Marysville, Ohio assembly plant. The RDX has been engineered to blend the sporting nature of an all-wheel-drive performance vehicle with the utility and versatility of an SUV.
Why it matters Acura has addressed two major points with the introduction of the 2007 RDX. First, this all-
new suv fills a void in the brand’s lineup, one that currently includes a decent variety of cars, but only the larger MDX exists on the truck/SUV side – the RDX, aimed at younger and more active individuals, should attract different buyers to the Acura brand. Second, the RDX’s turbocharged engine shows that Acura, the automaker that has avoided the overwhelming call for a V8-powered flagship (the redesigned RL is powered by a V6), is willing to adapt its powertrain philosophy to give shoppers what they want.
What’s under the hood Power for the 2007 Acura RDX comes from a turbocharged, 2.3-liter four-cylinder, aluminum engine that pushes a decent 240 horsepower and an impressive 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Mated to this motor is a five-speed, SportShift automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
What’s inside The vehicle pictured here is actually a near-production prototype, so there may be a few minor styling and equipment tweaks before the 2007 RDX gets its final signoff for production. However, there are several features that will almost certainly make it to your local dealer, including six airbags, leather sport seats, a split-folding rear seat, a front center console with lockable storage capable of swallowing a laptop computer, and a premium surround sound system. Likely to be optional, or trim-specific, is a navigation system with voice recognition, real-time traffic, and a wireless phone system.
What it looks like While spinning on the turntable at its 2006 North American International Auto Show debut, the 2007 Acura RDX hinted at influences from the
Porsche Cayenne, the Infiniti FX, and even a touch of Volkswagen Touareg in the tail design. In reality, the sharp body lines and Acura family headlights and front fascia treatment give the RDX an attractive, if not terribly distinct, look. Placed inside of subtly-flared wheel wells are 19-inch alloy wheels, and the rear view is accented by dual exhaust tips and a spoiler.
What Acura says John Mendel, senior vice president of Acura’s auto operations, suggests that the 2007 Acura RDX “represents the forward thinking that will be seen in the next generation of Acura light trucks. It is loaded with leading edge technology and it exemplifies what we call intelligent performance: a sporty, luxurious and functional SUV that has outstanding performance yet is also fuel efficient.”
What we think Frankly, it’s about time Acura adopted the use of a turbocharger. We’ve driven the high-revving TSX sedan and RSX hatch, the 300-horsepower (now SAE rated at 290 horses) RL flagship, and the MDX SUV, all of which felt competent but hardly thrilling in the power department. Even the NSX, with between 252 and 290 horses, lacked the underhood goods to match its supercar exterior. Of them all, the TL sedan has been the only Acura offering with an appropriate balance of horsepower and torque. The 2007 RDX, with 240 ponies and 260 lb.-ft. of twist, will trump the rest of Acura’s lineup. Plus, it fills a void for the brand, and offers a premium alternative to models like the
2007 Toyota RAV4 and the
2007 Hyundai Santa Fe.
When you can buy it Production of the 2007 Acura RDX SUV will begin in 2006 in Marysville, Ohio, with the first deliveries scheduled for the summer. Acura has not released pricing or production numbers.
Photos courtesy of Acura
