Best Car Reviews - 2022 Acura RDX AWD

Introduction

The 2022 Acura RDX AWD represents Acura’s commitment to delivering a premium driving experience in the small sport utility vehicle segment. Released for the 2022 production year, the RDX AWD is designed to cater to both luxury and performance seekers, making it an appealing choice for urban and suburban drivers alike. What truly sets this model apart is the blend of agile handling, all-weather capability, and a wealth of advanced technology features that competitors often lack at this price point.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2022 Acura RDX AWD boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design that emphasizes both style and functionality. At first glance, its sharply sculpted lines and bold diamond pentagon grille are immediately noticeable, presenting an assertive yet sophisticated stance. The vehicle measures within typical compact SUV dimensions but incorporates a long wheelbase for better stability and interior space. Key exterior features include striking Jewel Eye® LED headlights, sporty dual exhaust outlets, and available 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, distinguishing it from previous models with these refined enhancements.

Interior and Comfort

As you step inside, the RDX AWD welcomes you with a meticulously crafted cabin, exuding luxury and comfort. The interior is adorned with premium materials, such as available Milano leather and genuine wood trim. The ergonomic layout ensures that all controls are within easy reach, offering a seamless command over various functionalities. Notable comfort features include a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a panoramic moonroof that provides an open, airy feel. Acura’s thoughtful design prioritizes passenger comfort with ample headroom and legroom, making long journeys pleasant for all occupants.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the RDX AWD houses a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with SI-Drive, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission (S10), it accelerates briskly from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 7.3 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system ensures a stable and confidence-inspiring driving experience, whether navigating city streets or tackling winding country roads. In urban settings, the RDX is nimble, easily maneuvering tight corners, while on the highway, it cruises serenely with minimal road noise. Fuel efficiency stands at 12.9L/100 km, a competitive figure within its class.

Technology and Connectivity

Acura doesn’t fall short in the tech department with the RDX AWD. The vehicle features a robust infotainment system with a 9.7-inch display, integrated with Acura’s True Touchpad Interface™. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.0, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The model also offers a high-fidelity ELS Studio® audio system, making it a joy for audiophiles. Driver assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system enhance both convenience and safety.

Safety Features

Safety has not been compromised in the 2022 RDX AWD. Standard safety features include AcuraWatch™ suite technologies such as collision mitigation braking system, road departure mitigation, and blind spot information system. The vehicle has achieved high marks in crash tests, boasting an impressive 5-star safety rating by authoritative safety organizations, making it a reliable choice for families.

Pricing and Variants

The starting price for the 2022 Acura RDX AWD is approximately $40,600 USD. It is available in several trims, with higher-end variants offering additional luxury amenities and performance enhancements. When compared to competitors in the compact luxury SUV segment, like the Audi Q5 or BMW X3, the RDX offers a compelling balance of performance and price.

Pros and Cons

Pros

All-Wheel Drive capability enhances traction and driving confidence.
Advanced Tech Features surpass many competitors.
Luxurious Interior with premium materials and finishes.
Aggressive Styling that stands out on the road.
Strong Performance with a fuel-efficient engine.

Cons

Infotainment Interface Complexity may require a learning curve.
Rear visibility could be improved.
Ride Comfort can be firm over rough terrain.
Limited rear cargo space compared to some rivals.
Premium Gasoline requirement could increase fuel costs.

Maintenance and Common Issues

The estimated annual maintenance cost for the RDX is reasonable for a vehicle in its class, roughly averaging $900 USD. Common issues reported include:

Infotainment glitches in touchpad response.
Occasional electrical problems with dashboard lights.
Noise issues around the panoramic moonroof.
Early wear on interior trim materials.
Brake noise when stopping.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8.5/10

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Technology: 9/10
Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

“The RDX has exceeded my expectations. I love the interior quality and the tech features are top-notch!”
“Handling is smooth, but I think the ride could be softer over potholes,” mentioned one driver.
“Fuel efficiency is decent, though I wish it didn’t require premium gas,” says an owner.
“Tech-heavy and feature-rich, perfect for long drives,” raves a satisfied customer.
“Rear cargo space was a bit tighter than I hoped,” notes another.

Best cars in this category

2022 Audi Q5
2022 BMW X3
2022 Lexus NX
2022 Volvo XC60
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC

Summary

The 2022 Acura RDX AWD is a well-rounded compact SUV best suited for those who value luxury, technology, and performance. It delivers a premium experience without reaching the higher price tags of some European rivals. Bold styling, a feature-rich interior, and strong safety scores ensure it remains a strong contender for those in search of a reliable and sophisticated ride.