Acura debuted the 2016 RDX SUV at the Chicago Auto Show. The new version is designed to keep the strong-seller near the top of the luxury SUV segment.
In today’s hotly competitive car market, manufacturers can’t sit back and enjoy the sweet smell of success. So, despite strong demand for its midsize RDX sport-utility vehicle, Acura will be blowing into the Windy City this week with a 2016 model that gets a number of significant updates.
That includes new Jewel Eye LED projector headlamps, LED taillights, a more powerful V-6, and an array of new high-tech safety and convenience technologies.
“The RDX ended on a high note in 2014, posting its best sales year ever, but at Acura, we are not content in resting on our laurels,” said Acura General Manager Mike Accavitti. By adding a number of enhancements, he said Honda’s luxury brand’s goal with the 2016 RDX is “further solidifying its place as the one to beat in the entry luxury SUV segment.”
Exterior changes to the 2016 Acura RDX are modest, with a more three-dimensional grille treatment and revisions to the front and rear fascia. The most notable update is likely to be the distinctive, more slit-like Jewel Eye LED lamps which move away from the increasingly large and gaudy headlamp designs many manufacturers have adopted in recent years.
The RDX features new Jewel Eye LED projector headlamps, LED taillights, a more powerful V-6, and an array of high-tech safety and convenience technologies.
Under the hood, the 2016 Acura RDX gets a performance boost, with a new 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine that adds cylinder deactivation technology. The result is the ability to deliver the seemingly conflicting goals of better mileage and improved acceleration. Horsepower climbs to 279, up 6 hp, while torque gets a 1 pound-foot boost to 252 lb-ft.
For 2016, fuel economy rating increase 1 mpg across the board, to 19 City, 28 Highway with all-wheel-drive models, and to 20/29 for front-drive versions. Meanwhile, the AWD system has been recalibrated to deliver more torque to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions, something Acura claims will enhance dynamic stability and all-weather performance.
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The 2016 Acura RDX gets a performance boost, with a new 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine that adds cylinder deactivation technology.
Several new or updated packages will be available on the 2016 RDX. The Technology Package adds a new 8-way power passenger seat, a multi-information display, HD Radio and several well-received safety features: Blind Spot Information and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.
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The new Advance Package offers rain-sensing wiper, keyless start, front foglights, front and rear parking sensors, ventilates seats and a mix of safety systems.
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Along with improvements to the basic body structure, Acura says it is targeting a five-star crash rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.