Best Car Reviews - 2016 Acura RDX 2WD

Introduction

The 2016 Acura RDX 2WD is a standout in the small sport utility vehicle category, targeting a diverse audience that values practicality, performance, and luxury. Released in 2016, this vehicle continues to appeal to young professionals, families, and anyone seeking a blend of efficiency and high-end features. Known for its supreme balance of comfort and power, the RDX 2WD combines Acura's hallmark quality with cutting-edge technology, making it an intriguing option in its class.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2016 Acura RDX 2WD presents a sleek, modern design that effortlessly captures attention. Its aerodynamically refined shape and impressive stance convey a sense of agility and poise. Compared to its predecessors, the 2016 model introduces enhanced headlight and grille designs, which add to its commanding road presence.

• Contemporary front fascia with Jewel Eye® LED headlights.
• Chiseled body lines that accentuate its sporty appeal.
• 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, offering a perfect blend of style and functionality.
• Notable improvements in aerodynamics and noise reduction.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside, and the 2016 Acura RDX 2WD greets you with a refinement that balances luxury and comfort. The cabin features high-quality materials, from soft-touch surfaces to leather-trimmed seats, ensuring a premium tactile experience for both driver and passengers.

• 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support.
• Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort.
• Ample legroom and headspace, enhancing comfort on longer drives.
• Intuitive center console layout with easy-to-reach controls.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2016 Acura RDX 2WD houses a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with an automatic (S6) transmission. It offers a spirited driving experience, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in about 6.5 seconds. The front-wheel-drive system further complements its smooth handling, making city driving a breeze and highway cruises enjoyable, although it can feel slightly less confident during sharp turns due to the absence of all-wheel drive.

With a fuel consumption rate of 12.9 l/100 km, it's reasonably efficient given its power output.

• 279 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque.
• Variable Cylinder Management™ for improved fuel efficiency.
• MacPherson strut front suspension to optimize handling.
• Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering for precision driving.

Technology and Connectivity

The RDX 2WD is equipped with a host of cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance driving pleasure and convenience. Its infotainment system is user-friendly, with connectivity features that keep you seamlessly in touch with your digital world.

• 7-inch touchscreen display with intuitive controls.
• Bluetooth® connectivity for hands-free calls and streaming audio.
• Available ELS Studio® Premium Audio System for immersive sound.
• GPS-linked climate control for optimized comfort.

Safety Features

Acura doesn't overlook safety with the RDX 2WD, incorporating both standard and advanced features to protect its occupants. It has secured favorable scores in various crash tests, reflecting its robust build quality.

• Multi-view rear camera for enhanced visibility.
• Lane Keeping Assist System to prevent unintentional lane departures.
• Adaptive Cruise Control for maintaining safe distances on highways.
• Vehicle Stability Assist™ with traction control.

Pricing and Variants

The 2016 Acura RDX 2WD is competitively priced, starting at around $35,270 USD, offering value-packed trims without compromising on quality or features. When compared to competitors like the Lexus NX or BMW X3, the RDX presents a more cost-effective yet luxurious alternative.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Impressive V6 power and smooth acceleration.
• Luxury-grade interior finish and design.
• Comprehensive safety features as standard.
• Highly reliable and consistent performance.
• Competitive pricing in its class.

Cons

• Fuel efficiency could be improved.
• Limited cargo space compared to some rivals.
• Lack of all-wheel drive limits off-road capability.
• Infotainment system interface can be dated.
• Limited engine options for those seeking variety.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Maintenance costs for the RDX 2WD average around $700 annually. Although it's generally reliable, like all vehicles, it has a few common issues:

• Transmission issues, particularly jerky shifting.
• Infotainment system glitches, occasionally requiring resets.
• Brake wear, leading to more frequent replacements.
• Suspension noise, often due to worn components.
• Paint quality issues, like fading or chipping.

Rating

• Overall Rating: 8.2/10
• Design: 8.5/10
• Comfort: 8.0/10
• Performance: 8.0/10
• Technology: 7.5/10
• Safety: 8.5/10

User Reviews and Feedback

1. "The RDX 2WD combines luxury and performance well, although fuel economy isn't its strongest suit."
2. "Handling is smooth, with a comfortable interior that's perfect for long drives."
3. "Some tech features feel outdated, but the overall reliability compensates for it."
4. "I love the thrill of the V6 engine, but the infotainment could be more user-friendly."
5. "Safety features are excellent, but cargo space is modest, particularly with family gear."

Best Cars in this Category

• 2016 BMW X3
• 2016 Audi Q5
• 2016 Lexus NX 200t
• 2016 Volvo XC60
• 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Summary

The 2016 Acura RDX 2WD is best suited for those who seek an elegant blend of luxury and performance in a compact SUV form. While it has a few areas for improvement, such as fuel efficiency, its compelling price point, build quality, and feature-rich design offer tremendous value. Given its strengths, it remains a top contender in its segment, continuing to appeal to a wide range of drivers looking for both reliability and refinement.