Occasionally, the middle is where you want to be. This is certainly the case with the 2023 Acura RDX luxury SUV. The Acura brand classifies as a luxury brand but truly competes in the sliver between mainstream and luxury that we call premium. Thankfully, the RDX is priced accordingly, and it could be the upscale compact crossover SUV that you enjoy driving without paying more than you should.

What are the expected pros and cons of the 2023 Acura RDX?

Acura does a good job hitting the right notes with the luxury SUVs and sedans offered. The 2023 RDX offers you:

Pros

• Roomy cabin and cargo area
• Impressive steering and handling
• An upscale cabin
• Tons of available tech
• An affordable price in this class

Cons

• Only one powertrain
• Options are all in packages, nothing stand-alone
• Touchpad controller can be finicky

When will the new RDX be available?

We don’t have a solid release date yet, but the 2023 model of the Acura RDX should be available near the end of 2022.

What powers this new premium/luxury SUV?

The 2023 Acura RDX uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine attached to a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, which is pretty good for this small SUV.

The fuel mileage numbers reach 22 city/28 hwy mpg in FWD models and 21 city/27 hwy mpg in AWD versions. You can tow up to 1,500 pounds with this Acura SUV.

Acura offers the RDX different from traditional vehicles

Technically, there’s only one trim for the Acura RDX. That trim can improve with four different options packages, which could be considered trims, even though they aren’t offered that way. The RDX brings you:

Base Package (one true trim)

• 19-inch wheels
• Panoramic sunroof
• Keyless entry
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Dual-zone automatic climate controls
• Heated front seats
• Simulated leather upholstery
• 10.2-inch central display with touchpad controller
• 9-speaker audio system
• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Wi-Fi hotspot
• Adaptive cruise control
• Forward collision mitigation
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alerts
• Lane-keeping assist

Technology Package

• Leather upholstery
• Navigation system
• Acoustic windows
• Wireless charging pad
• 12-speaker premium audio system
• Ambient interior lighting
• Front and rear parking sensors

A-Spec Technology Package

• All items from the Technology Package
• 20-inch wheels
• Fog lights
• Standard SH-AWD
• Sporty exterior elements
• Ventilated front seats
• Leather and simulated suede upholstery
• 16-speaker audio system

Advance Package

• Items from the Technology Package
• Adaptive suspension dampers
• Remote start
• Power-folding mirrors
• Acoustic rear windows
• Wooden cabin trim
• Heated steering wheel
• Thigh extensions and side bolsters in the front seats
• Ventilated front seats
• Heated rear seats
• Head-up display
• 16-speaker audio system
• Surround-view camera system

A-Spec Advance Package

• Combines the Advance and A-Spec packages together

What’s the expected starting price for the 2023 Acura RDX?

This compact luxury SUV should start at around $41,000. That’s a small increase over the price for the 2022 model. Adding features and packages will significantly increase the price of this SUV.

Is the RDX a good SUV to drive?

This is a good SUV to drive if you’re looking for upscale features at an affordable price. Don’t expect too much out of the towing capacity or fuel mileage of the 2023 Acura RDX. This SUV falls near the middle of the pack for the Consumer Reports rating of the 2022 model. With no significant changes to the 2023 model, this is where we expect it to remain.

Next, check out the different variations of truck tailgates, or watch the 2023 Acura RDX video below: