After hinting that a surprise would be in store at the Chicago auto show on its truck front, today Acura unveiled an updated, 2016 RDX sport-utility vehicle. There are subtle tweaks to the styling to distinguish it from the model it replaces, sure, but the changes are perhaps even more significant.
The RDX is Acura's entry-level SUV, a rung or two in size and prestige below the MDX. It complements the refreshed ILX as an "entry point" into the brand, according to Acura, so think of it as a competitor to the Mercedes-Benz GLK and GLA.
The 2016 RDX receives a freshening in front and rear, with notably sharper and more pronounced headlight and taillight detailing, as well as an upgrade to its interior. The biggest change is under the hood, where the '16 model inherits the 3.5-liter V-6 shared with the TLX sedan and MDX, tuned here for 279 hp. That makes it only 11 horsepower shy of the MDX's 290, while significantly smaller. Fuel economy is also expected to be improved.
AcuraWatch—the collection of active and passive driver safety features that includes lane depature warning, preventative braking, and pedestrian detection—will become an option on the RDX, just like it did on the ILX. It's pretty advanced technology for the entry-level segment.
Expect the RDX to make it to dealerships in 2015 as a 2016 model.
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