Acura has made the curious decision to replace the 2.3-liter turbocharged four cylinder in the RDX with the venerable 3.5-liter V-6. The reason? Fuel economy.
Acura is revamping its RDX crossover in attempt to return to its core values, but the decisions regarding the second-generation small crossover seem to go against the current convention.
The 2013 RDX will trade its turbocharged 240-horsepower 2.3-liter four cylinder for Honda’s venerable 3.5-liter V-6, producing 273 horses. The larger engine is a surprise as almost every other automaker is frantically replacing their V-6 engines with turbocharged four cylinders precisely for the reason Honda says it is moving to the V-6.
Vicki Poponi, assistant vice president for of product planning for Acura, admitted during her part of the presentation on the Acura stand that fuel mileage for the RDX has been a disappointment to owners.
But maybe Acura is onto something. It claims that the RDX will have the best fuel economy in its class with 20 mpg city and 28 highway for the front-wheel-drive model.
Also helping improve fuel economy, the new RDX also gets a new six-speed automatic replacing the old five-speed and a new, lightweight all-wheel-drive system.
Poponi said that Acura is trying to return to its core principles, which include, value, sustainability and “time is luxury.” On that last count, Acura wants to help its buyers complete tasks effortlessly and more quickly. To that end, it is introducing the usual assortment of connectivity features that become the norm across the industry.
Acura is also softening its controversial styling, particularly the odd and little-liked shield grille design.
Poponi said Acura’s goal with the redesign was to give it a more formal appearance, giving it more elegance and sophistication.
Shown as a prototype version of the 2013 RDX, the second generation of Acura’s five-passenger crossover SUV will up the ante with a new approach to achieving both advanced performance and fuel efficiency via a new engine, transmission and all-wheel drive system.
Inside, the RDX has sweeping shapes and matte surface trim, which the automaker says gives it an upscale look and luxury feel.
Acura is moving production of the RDX to from Marysville, Ohio, to East Liberty, Ohio. It goes on sale this spring.