Acura aims lower with entry-level RDX SUV
2007 Acura RDX
This has been a long time in coming. The 2007 Acura RDX, shown on three previous occasions in various states of conceptual dress, finally debuted in final production format at the 2006 New York Auto Show. An entry-level crossover vehicle sharing a platform with the redesigned Honda CR-V, the 2007 RDX is smaller than the MDX, able to seat five in a pinch but better suited for four adults.Under the 2007 Acura RDX’s hood is the company’s first turbocharged engine, a 2.3-liter four-cylinder good for 240 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm. Acura employs a variable flow turbo to help erase lag and ensure that there’s plenty of power throughout the rev range. Acura says the RDX will deliver an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
A five-speed Sequential SportShift transmission features paddle shifters on the steering wheel, and drives power through a standard Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system (SH-AWD). Acura’s SH-AWD is also used on the RL flagship, and can distribute power front to rear and also side-to-side to ensure that the 18-inch tire with the most grip is getting the most power.
Built in Marysville, Ohio, the 2007 Acura RDX comes standard six airbags, stability control, leather sport seats, and dual-zone climate control. A 360-watt premium sound system is standard, and features XM satellite radio, a six-disc CD changer, and an auxiliary MP3 player jack for connecting your iPod. The only option on the RDX is a Technology Package with a 10-speaker, 410-watt Acura/ELS surround sound system; a navigation system with AcuraLink Real Time Traffic reporting; and a HandsFreeLink system that works with Bluetooth-enabled cell phones.
The 2007 Acura RDX can swallow up to 60.6 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seat folded down, landing it right into compact SUV territory. Interestingly, though, the center console is designed to hold a laptop computer, and Acura has designed the RDX with several handy storage bins and cubbies. Acura says the RDX will go on sale this summer, and the company plans to sell about 40,000 units annually. Pricing will be announced closer to the RDX’s arrival in showrooms.
Photos by Ron Perry