Since it launched, the current, third-generation RDX has been one of the more engaging compact luxury SUVs on the market. However, to say this segment is ultra-competitive is an understatement, so we set out with the 2024 Acura RDX Platinum Elite A-Spec to see whether or not it still has the goods to keep up and stay relevant.
The RDX’s styling has remained largely unchanged since its debut in 2018. Acura gave it a minor facelift in 2022 to make it appear more aggressive like its MDX sibling. In our eyes, the design is starting to age a little because the RDX has been around for so long, and the fact that the RDX is consistently a top-seller for Acura certainly does not help. But that just means the sporty look still works, and onlookers will instantly recognize its athletic potential.
At the heart of the RDX lies a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. That is enough to propel the RDX pretty effortlessly everywhere, though there was a slight delay in the 10-speed automatic transmission’s response that put a hamper on the experience. Surprisingly, the RDX actually sounds pretty good, with a noticeable growl when you wring it out. Fuel economy is rated at 11.3 L/100 kilometres city, 9.1 highway, and 10.3 combined. We averaged 11.7 L/100 km for our city-heavy commute, and Acura recommends premium fuel.
Between its four drive modes — snow, comfort, normal, and sport — the latter was our favourite. The steering response is sharper, the transmission holds gears longer, and the adaptive dampers firm up nicely. Combining all these with the communicative chassis, the accurate and well-weighted steering, and the RDX’s inclination to not understeer right away, the end result is a surprisingly fun daily driver that handles more like a hot hatch than any crossovers not named Porsche Macan. The RDX simply makes you want to keep driving — a rare feat these days.
On those long drives up to the cottage, the RDX’s ride quality is above-average in comfort or normal modes, with the suspension soaking up most bumps quite well. Wind and road noise is well-isolated, and for those bringing a small trailer or watercraft for the journey, the RDX can haul up to 1,500 pounds. No matter where you sit, the RDX excels with above-average room for every occupant; the 16-way power-adjustable front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the rear bench is heated in the two outbound positions. The RDX’s 881-litre cargo hold is also very useful, especially with its wide opening.
On features, the RDX is as fully loaded as it gets in Platinum Elite A-Spec trim. It keeps up with the current crop of luxury compact crossovers with a surround-view camera, wireless phone charging, a heads-up display, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D sound system. It also comes with a full suit of driver assists, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information system with Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, Lane Departure Warning and Keep Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking, and front and rear Automatic Emergency Braking systems — all features that have become standard for its class.
The only part that lets the RDX down — and we have covered this extensively since this generation was released, as well as other Acura models — is Acura’s clunky True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. Using a touchpad on the centre console, it asks you to place your fingerprint on a specific position which corresponds to the exact location shown on the 10.2-inch display. Navigating the main menus is honestly not too difficult, but when you get to the submenus, the prompts become smaller and you need to scroll by pressing the up or down command repeatedly.
The interface is all the more confusing when you’re using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, where it accepts commands the traditional way — dragging your finger across the touchpad — which is the complete opposite of the native setup. The good news is that this system seems to be on the way out, as Acura is going with a full touchscreen setup in the refreshed 2025 MDX. We expect the RDX to follow suit, and it could not come any sooner.
The RDX starts at $54,130 for the base Tech trim, and our range-topping Platinum Elite A-Spec model tops out at $61,930 as-tested with the Liquid Carbon Metallic option box checked off. It gets our recommendation if your priority is to have the most engaging driving dynamics. For similar money, however, the Genesis GV70 2.5T offers better interior features and comfort, while the Lexus NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid is the one to pick if fuel economy is your priority.
The 2024 Acura RDX Platinum Elite A-Spec remains an attractive option with solid performance and a competitive price tag. If you care more about its overall package rather than performance, it does show its age in a few areas, but those who care about driving will get exactly what they want out of the RDX.
