Midsize SUV

The 2012 Acura RDX – A Midsize SUV That Has A Lot To Offer

Americans fell in love with SUVs in the 1990s and never looked back. Despite higher gas prices, the SUV is still a very popular choice for consumers looking for flexibility. Acura, Honda’s luxury line remains a customer favorite, with a lineup of some of the safest midsize SUV. The 2012 Acura RDX continues in this tradition.

The Acura RDX has been in production for the sixth year, and received minor tweaks for the 2012 edition. This compact luxury SUV is definitely worth a look for customers, who are looking for a safe, reliable SUV with many luxury features. The RDX remains one of the most pleasing SUVs to drive. The turbocharged four cylinder engine, even though smaller than those of competitors, has plenty of torque for a quick acceleration. As a matter of fact, the only one that beats the RDX in acceleration is the Infinity EX 35. The optional ‘Super Handling’ All-wheel-drive makes this SUV different from other available brands on the midsize SUV list.

Midsize SUV - Acura RDX

The RDX for 2012 is available in two different trim levels with four different configurations. The base model features a 2.3L, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, with or without the technology package, and the SH-AWD, with or without the technology package. All trim levels have the same turbocharged engine. The available 5 exterior colors are: Basque Red Pearl, Bellanova White Pearl, Chrystal Black Pearl, Palladium Metallic, and Polished Metal Metallic. The two interior colors are Ebony Leather and Taupe Leather. These colors provide plenty of possible color combinations for the customer.

The interior of this 2012 midsize SUV offers many luxurious features Acura is known for. An 8-way power driver seat has a power adjustable lumbar support, and the passenger seat is 4-way power adjustable. Leather, sport front seats, a center armrest, split- folding rear seats, and a reverse tilt passenger mirror that provides curb view when the vehicle is in reverse, are just some of the features of this vehicle. Other power features include power door locks, power mirrors, heated mirrors, and 2 one-touch power windows.

For added convenience, the RDX has cruise control, universal remote transmitter, and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel. The dual zone climate controls, reading lights, and dual illuminated vanity mirrors are nice features of this SUV. The technology package, which is available for the base model and the AWD, consists of a DVD based display with voice activation and directions navigation system, AcuraLink telecommunication service, Bluetooth wireless data link for hands-free phone operation, as well as real time traffic reporting . The RDX is prewired for phones.

An Overview of the Safety Features of This Midsize SUV

- 4-wheel ABS
- Front and rear head airbags
- Dual front side-mounted airbags
- Child seat anchors
- Emergency braking assist
- Stability and traction control
- Electronic brakeforce distribution
- Tire pressure monitoring
- Driver and passenger head restraint whiplash protection

Highlights of the Acura RDX include:

- Turbocharged 4-cylinder 2.3-L engine with 260 ft-lbs of torque, 240 hp
- Maximum towing capacity of 1500 lbs
- Cargo space: 27.8 cubic feet with all seats in place
- 19 mpg/city and 24 mpg/ hwy
- $ 32,895 for the base model
- $ 37,995 for the SH-AWD with technology package
- Basic 4 year/ 50,000 miles warranty
- Drivetrain : 6 years/70,000 miles

The Overall Impression of This Midsize SUV

For consumers, who do not want to give up the car like handling for versatility, this RDX is certainly a good choice. The advanced safety features, and the overall quality are superior to competitors in the same class. The fuel consumption for this midsize SUV MPG is average, and may even cause some potential customers to take a look at a midsize hybrid SUV. Nevertheless, the high-end quality, the Smart Handling All- wheel drive, and other key features will bring many customers back to the Acura RDX. The reliability of Honda’s luxury line is undeniable. The Acura RDX SUV certainly deserves a second look.

Midsize SUV – Acura RDX 2012 Review Video

Image Source Acura RDX By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons