Hey guys! Thinking about snagging the 2019 Acura RDX base model? You've come to the right place. Let's dive into a real, no-nonsense review of what this car offers. We'll cover everything from performance and comfort to technology and overall value. No fluff, just the facts to help you make the best decision. Whether you're a seasoned Acura enthusiast or just starting your SUV search, this review will give you a clear picture of what the 2019 RDX base model brings to the table.

What is the Acura RDX?

The Acura RDX is a luxury crossover SUV manufactured by the Japanese automaker Honda under its Acura brand. It was introduced in 2006 as a 2007 model, and it is positioned as a premium compact SUV that offers a blend of performance, luxury, and technology. The Acura RDX is known for its sporty handling, comfortable interior, and a wide range of features that cater to both drivers and passengers.

The Acura RDX typically comes with a turbocharged engine, providing ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. Its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is a standout feature, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions. Inside, the RDX offers a well-appointed cabin with premium materials, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly infotainment system.

Over the years, the Acura RDX has received several updates and redesigns. The 2019 model marked the beginning of the third generation, introducing a new design language, improved performance, and enhanced technology features. The Acura RDX continues to be a popular choice in the luxury SUV segment, competing with other well-known models such as the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Lexus NX. Its combination of style, performance, and value make it an attractive option for buyers looking for a premium SUV experience.

Exterior Design

The 2019 Acura RDX boasts a sleek and modern exterior design that immediately catches the eye. The front fascia is dominated by Acura's signature Diamond Pentagon grille, which is framed by Jewel Eye LED headlights. These headlights not only look stylish but also provide excellent illumination. The sculpted hood and pronounced lines along the sides give the RDX a sporty and dynamic stance. The overall design is a departure from the previous generation, with a more aggressive and refined appearance.

Moving to the side profile, the RDX features a sloping roofline and a distinctive character line that runs from the front fender to the rear taillights. The wheel arches are well-defined, housing standard 19-inch alloy wheels that enhance the vehicle's athletic appeal. Chrome accents around the windows and door handles add a touch of elegance. The rear of the RDX is equally striking, with LED taillights that wrap around the corners and a dual exhaust outlet that emphasizes its performance-oriented nature. The tailgate is power-operated, making it easy to access the cargo area.

In terms of dimensions, the 2019 Acura RDX is slightly larger than its predecessor, providing more interior space for passengers and cargo. The increased wheelbase contributes to a smoother ride and improved stability. Available exterior features include a panoramic sunroof, which adds an open and airy feel to the cabin, and roof rails for added versatility. The color options for the 2019 RDX range from classic shades like white and black to more vibrant hues like red and blue, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle to their liking. Overall, the exterior design of the 2019 Acura RDX is a successful blend of style and functionality, making it a standout in the crowded luxury SUV segment.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the 2019 Acura RDX base model, you'll find a cabin designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. The seats are wrapped in high-quality leatherette, offering a pleasant feel and adequate support for long drives. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position, and the steering wheel is wrapped in leather, providing a comfortable grip. The dashboard layout is clean and modern, with a large 10.2-inch infotainment display taking center stage. The materials used throughout the cabin feel premium, with soft-touch surfaces and attention to detail.

The Acura RDX 2019 base model comes standard with a range of features that enhance the overall driving experience. These include a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry with push-button start. The infotainment system is intuitive to use, with a touchpad interface that allows you to control various functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, making it easy to integrate your smartphone with the car's system. The audio system delivers crisp and clear sound, ensuring an enjoyable listening experience. In terms of space, the RDX offers ample room for both front and rear passengers, with generous legroom and headroom. The cargo area is also spacious, providing plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or other items. Additional storage compartments throughout the cabin add to the practicality of the RDX. Overall, the interior of the 2019 Acura RDX base model is a comfortable and well-equipped space that makes every journey a pleasure.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Acura RDX 2019 base model packs a punch with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and responsive shifts. The front-wheel-drive configuration is standard, but you can opt for the available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system for improved traction and handling in various weather conditions. The Acura RDX 2019 base model offers brisk acceleration, making it easy to merge onto highways and pass other vehicles. The engine feels refined and powerful, with minimal turbo lag. The 10-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing quick and seamless gear changes. In terms of handling, the Acura RDX 2019 base model feels confident and composed on the road. The steering is precise and responsive, allowing you to easily maneuver through tight corners. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road while still providing a sporty driving experience. The Acura RDX 2019 base model also offers multiple driving modes, allowing you to customize the vehicle's performance to your liking. These modes include Normal, Comfort, Sport, and Snow, each of which adjusts the engine, transmission, and steering settings to suit different driving conditions. Overall, the Acura RDX 2019 base model delivers a satisfying driving experience, with ample power, responsive handling, and a comfortable ride.

Technology and Safety Features

The 2019 Acura RDX base model doesn't skimp on technology and safety. You get a 10.2-inch infotainment screen, which, while not a touchscreen, is controlled by Acura's True Touchpad Interface. It takes a little getting used to, but once you master it, it's fairly intuitive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which is a huge plus for smartphone integration. You also get AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. These features add an extra layer of safety and convenience to your daily drives. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available, but you'll need to upgrade to a higher trim to get them.

The Acura RDX 2019 base model also includes a multi-view rear camera, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. The audio system is decent, but audiophiles might want to consider upgrading to the ELS Studio 3D system in higher trims for a more immersive listening experience. The vehicle also has standard features like keyless entry, push-button start, and dual-zone automatic climate control, adding to the overall convenience and comfort. Overall, the technology and safety features in the Acura RDX 2019 base model are comprehensive and provide a solid foundation for a modern driving experience.

Fuel Economy

Okay, let's talk fuel economy for the 2019 Acura RDX base model. The EPA estimates you'll get around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Now, real-world numbers can vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. If you're mostly doing city driving with lots of stop-and-go, expect to be on the lower end of that range. Highway cruising should get you closer to the 28 mpg mark. Compared to other luxury SUVs in its class, the RDX's fuel economy is pretty average. It's not the most fuel-efficient, but it's not the worst either. Keep in mind that opting for the SH-AWD system can slightly decrease fuel economy due to the added weight and complexity. Regular unleaded gasoline is recommended, so you don't need to splurge on premium fuel. Overall, the Acura RDX 2019 base model offers reasonable fuel economy for its size and performance, making it a practical choice for daily driving.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2019 Acura RDX base model to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

Pros:

• Strong Engine: The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides plenty of power for daily driving and highway merging.
• Comfortable Interior: The seats are comfortable, and the cabin is well-designed with high-quality materials.
• Standard Tech: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with a suite of AcuraWatch safety features.
• Spacious Cargo Area: There's plenty of room for luggage, groceries, and other items.
• Stylish Design: The exterior design is modern and eye-catching.

Cons:

• Touchpad Interface: The infotainment system's touchpad can be a bit tricky to use at first.
• No Touchscreen: Some drivers may prefer a touchscreen over a touchpad.
• Missing Features: Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are not standard on the base model.
• Average Fuel Economy: The fuel economy is decent but not exceptional compared to competitors.

The Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2019 Acura RDX base model? It's a solid choice if you're looking for a luxury SUV that offers a good balance of performance, comfort, and technology. The turbocharged engine provides ample power, the interior is comfortable and well-equipped, and the standard tech features are a nice bonus. However, the touchpad interface might take some getting used to, and the lack of certain features like blind-spot monitoring in the base model is a bit of a letdown. Overall, the Acura RDX 2019 base model is a competitive option in its class, offering good value for the money. If you prioritize performance, comfort, and standard tech, it's definitely worth considering.