2026 Acura RDX Review: Expert Insights, Pricing, and Trims

Motor Trend

6 hours ago

Blending sharp styling with a spacious, well-equipped interior, the 2026 RDX is Acura's biggest two-row SUV. The first RDX versions went on sale for the 2007 model year, and the current third-generation model arrived for 2019.
Slotting above the smaller ADX but below the MDX in Acura's SUV lineup, the RDX competes with the BMW X3 and Lexus NX. What's New
Acura called last year's RDX a refresh, so we can likely expect the 2026 RDX to emerge mostly unchanged. Changes should be light, though we still hold out hope that the brand will introduce a touchscreen interface to replace the SUV's trackpad. What We Think
One of Acura's most popular models, the third-gen RDX was a darling of the segment for a time. From the outside, the small luxury SUV looks athletic and premium, an appearance that was slightly updated for 2025. Design is just as pleasing and upscale in the cabin, which also delivers good packaging and cargo space. The available 16-speaker ELS Studio elevates the passenger experience further, but overall, other rivals have surpassed the Acura in the segment.
The RDX is capable of sportiness, but launches are somewhat drawn out. Although power delivery is smooth, MotorTrend testing of the A Spec Advance model revealed that tuning limits the full delivery of power unless the car is pointed straight.
Handling is nimble, but the RDX rides on the stiff side, and with the road noise that permeates the cabin, everyday driving leaves something to be desired.
Our biggest gripe with the RDX, though, is that the segment has largely moved on, and the Acura needs significant change to keep up with rivals. Even though the bigger MDX has been updated with an infotainment touchscreen, its smaller sibling remains saddled with the annoying old-school touchpad interface. Additionally, some competitors now offer efficient hybrid models, which seems like a missed opportunity for Acura given its corporate parent Honda has had the also small CR-V Hybrid for some years. We wanted changes this year to make a bigger positive impact, but it looks like we might have to wait for the redesign (possibly for 2028) . The RDX is still a solid luxury small SUV, but for something a little more contemporary, the BMW X3 or Genesis GV70 could be worth looking at. Performance and MPGs
Look for the lineup's 2.0-liter turbo-four to return for 2026. Output should be unchanged, so 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. All 2026 RDXs receive a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
In our most recent testing, the RDX can sprint to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds . Both launches are reasonably quick, relatively speaking.
Fuel economy ratings will probably be about the same as last year, or 21/27 mpg city/highway for most models except the performance A-Spec, which returns 26 mpg highway. Those aren't great.
We'd love to see improvements here to improve mpgs and range, either with the standard engine or by using a version of the CR-V Hybrid powertrain from parent company Honda. For comparison, consider the newly updated 2025 BMW X3 that offers 27/33 mpg with AWD and a driving range about 100 miles longer than the RDX's. That's a lot of extra driving before you'll need to refuel. Safety Ratings and Features
Last year's RDX is an IIHS 2024 Top Safety Pick, the institute's second highest award. The ute earns primarily good ratings, but it has yet to go through IIHS' updated front impact testing. From NHTSA, the 2025 RDX earns a top five-star overall safety rating. Ratings should be similar for this year's model.
The 2026 Acura RDX offers a comprehensive array of standard safety features. These include: Automatic emergency braking
Lane keeping assist
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Automatic high-beams
Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow
Additional available tech features range from LED foglights and a 360-degree camera to rain-sensing wipers and a windshield wiper deicer. Although the list of standard and optional equipment is impressive, Acura's lane centering system still leaves room for improvement, as it can occasionally drift over lane markers. Cargo Space and Interior Room
A spacious interior is an RDX strength. Legroom compares favorably to the Lexus NX and updated BMW X3. The BMW offers a larger cargo hold, though. Technology
Unlike most modern systems, the RDX's infotainment setup lacks a touchscreen. Instead, drivers must navigate the 10.2-inch display using a clunky touchpad on the center console. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7.0-inch driver display, heated power front seats, speed-sensitive volume control, and ambient lighting are also standard.
Moving up the trim walk unlocks a wireless phone charger, 10.5-inch head-up display, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, power-folding side mirrors, puddle lights, a hands-free power liftgate, and other features. Other Luxury Compact SUVs: Lexus NX
Genesis GV70
BMW X3
Audi Q5
Lincoln Corsair