Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2019 Acura RDX, a vehicle that's been making waves in the compact luxury SUV segment. This isn't just another review; we're going to explore everything from its sleek design and powerful performance to its advanced technology and overall driving experience. Whether you're a prospective buyer, a current owner, or simply a car enthusiast, this article has something for you.
Overview of the 2019 Acura RDX
The 2019 Acura RDX marked a significant redesign for the popular SUV, introducing a bolder and more athletic exterior, a completely revamped interior, and a host of new features. Acura aimed to create a vehicle that not only looked luxurious but also delivered a thrilling driving experience. The RDX boasts a turbocharged engine, a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system (available), and a suite of advanced safety technologies. It's a compelling option for those seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and style. Let's break down the key elements that make the 2019 RDX stand out. First, the exterior design immediately grabs attention with its sharp lines, distinctive grille, and signature Jewel Eye LED headlights. The overall silhouette is more aggressive and sporty compared to previous generations. Inside, the cabin has been completely redesigned with premium materials, a user-friendly infotainment system, and plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. Acura has also focused on improving the driving dynamics, offering a more responsive and engaging experience behind the wheel. The turbocharged engine provides ample power for daily commutes and highway cruising, while the available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhances traction and stability in various weather conditions. Safety is also a top priority, with the 2019 RDX equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Overall, the 2019 Acura RDX represents a significant step forward for the brand, offering a compelling package that competes strongly with other luxury SUVs in its class. The attention to detail in the design, the focus on driving performance, and the abundance of technology make it a vehicle worth considering. Whether you're looking for a stylish daily driver or a capable family SUV, the 2019 RDX delivers on multiple fronts. The interior of the 2019 Acura RDX is a standout feature, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and technology that elevates the driving experience. The cabin has been completely redesigned with premium materials, including available leather upholstery, wood trim, and brushed aluminum accents. The overall design is modern and sophisticated, creating a welcoming and upscale atmosphere. One of the key highlights of the interior is the user-friendly infotainment system, which features a 10.2-inch display and a touchpad interface. While some drivers may take a little time to adjust to the touchpad, it ultimately provides a precise and intuitive way to control the system's various functions, including navigation, audio, and climate control. The system also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. Space is another area where the 2019 RDX excels. The cabin offers ample room for both front and rear passengers, with comfortable seating and plenty of legroom. The rear seats can also be folded down to create a large cargo area, making the RDX a practical choice for hauling groceries, luggage, or other gear. Acura has also paid close attention to the details, such as the placement of controls and the quality of the materials. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives, and the overall fit and finish are excellent. The available panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of spaciousness and light in the cabin. In terms of technology, the 2019 RDX offers a wide range of features, including a premium sound system, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad. These features enhance the driving experience and make the RDX a connected and convenient vehicle to own.
Engine, Performance, and Handling
Let's talk about what's under the hood and how the 2019 Acura RDX performs on the road. The heart of the 2019 RDX is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is a significant upgrade over the previous generation's V6, offering more power and better fuel efficiency. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in performance, making the RDX feel quick and responsive in a variety of driving situations. Whether you're accelerating onto the highway or navigating city streets, the engine delivers plenty of power for confident driving. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and efficiently. The transmission is also programmed to be responsive to the driver's inputs, providing quick downshifts when needed for extra acceleration. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is available as an option on all trims of the 2019 RDX. This system is designed to enhance traction and stability in various weather conditions, as well as improve handling on dry pavement. SH-AWD can distribute torque between the front and rear wheels, as well as between the left and right rear wheels, to optimize grip and cornering performance. The result is a vehicle that feels planted and confident in all types of driving situations. In terms of handling, the 2019 RDX strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, while still offering enough control for spirited driving. The steering is precise and responsive, giving the driver a good feel for the road. Overall, the 2019 Acura RDX delivers a driving experience that is both enjoyable and engaging. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power, the transmission shifts smoothly, and the available SH-AWD system enhances traction and handling. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a weekend road trip, the RDX is a capable and comfortable vehicle. The braking system in the 2019 Acura RDX is also worth noting. The brakes are strong and responsive, providing confident stopping power in a variety of situations. The brake pedal feels firm and provides good feedback, making it easy to modulate the brakes and control the vehicle's speed. In addition to its performance capabilities, the 2019 RDX also offers decent fuel economy. The EPA estimates that the front-wheel-drive model gets 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the SH-AWD model gets 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive for the compact luxury SUV segment. Overall, the engine, performance, and handling of the 2019 Acura RDX are among its strongest attributes. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power, the transmission shifts smoothly, and the available SH-AWD system enhances traction and handling. Whether you're looking for a comfortable daily driver or a sporty weekend vehicle, the RDX delivers on both fronts. The 2019 Acura RDX is a vehicle that is both enjoyable to drive and practical for everyday use.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior of the 2019 Acura RDX is a testament to Acura's commitment to luxury and technology. Stepping inside, you're greeted by a well-crafted cabin with premium materials and a modern design. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. Available in leather or premium leather, they offer excellent cushioning and bolstering. The driver's seat, in particular, offers a wide range of adjustments, ensuring a perfect driving position for almost anyone. The rear seats are also spacious, with ample legroom and headroom for adult passengers. This makes the RDX a great choice for families or anyone who frequently carries passengers in the back. One of the standout features of the 2019 RDX's interior is its technology. The centerpiece is the 10.2-inch infotainment display, which is controlled by Acura's True Touchpad Interface. This touchpad, located on the center console, allows you to navigate the infotainment system with precise movements, similar to using a laptop trackpad. While it may take some getting used to, many drivers find it to be a more intuitive and less distracting way to interact with the system compared to traditional touchscreens. The infotainment system itself is packed with features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, navigation, and a premium audio system. The available ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, developed by Panasonic, delivers exceptional sound quality, making your favorite music sound even better. Other notable technology features in the 2019 RDX include a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. There's also a wireless charging pad for your smartphone, making it easy to keep your devices powered up on the go. In terms of comfort, the 2019 RDX offers a range of features designed to make your driving experience more enjoyable. Dual-zone automatic climate control allows you and your passengers to set your preferred temperatures, while available heated and ventilated front seats keep you comfortable in any weather. A panoramic sunroof, available on higher trims, adds a touch of luxury and opens up the cabin to natural light. The interior design of the 2019 RDX is both stylish and functional. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, with well-placed controls that are easy to reach. The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, giving the RDX a premium feel. There's also plenty of storage space, including a large center console and door pockets. Overall, the interior of the 2019 Acura RDX is a highlight of the vehicle. It offers a comfortable and luxurious environment, packed with technology and features that enhance the driving experience. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the RDX's interior is a place you'll enjoy spending time. The attention to detail and the quality of the materials are evident throughout the cabin, making the RDX a true competitor in the luxury SUV segment.
Safety Features and Driver-Assistance Systems
When it comes to safety, the 2019 Acura RDX doesn't hold back. Acura has equipped this SUV with a comprehensive suite of safety features and driver-assistance systems designed to protect you and your passengers. The 2019 RDX has earned top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), a testament to its robust safety performance. One of the key safety features of the 2019 RDX is its Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. This design helps to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the vehicle, reducing the risk of injury in the event of a collision. In addition to its strong body structure, the RDX is equipped with a full complement of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. These airbags provide additional protection for occupants in the event of a crash. The 2019 RDX also comes standard with AcuraWatch, a suite of driver-assistance systems that help to prevent accidents. AcuraWatch includes features such as adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. There's also lane-keeping assist, which helps to keep the RDX centered in its lane, and road departure mitigation, which can help to prevent the vehicle from drifting off the road. Another important feature of AcuraWatch is forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. This system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time. This can help to reduce the severity of a crash or even prevent it altogether. The 2019 RDX also offers blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot. This is a valuable feature for highway driving and lane changes. Rear cross-traffic alert is another helpful feature, which warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space or driveway. In addition to these advanced safety systems, the 2019 RDX also includes standard safety features such as antilock brakes, stability control, and traction control. These systems work together to help you maintain control of the vehicle in a variety of driving conditions. The 2019 Acura RDX is a safe and secure vehicle, thanks to its strong body structure, comprehensive airbag system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a long road trip, you can have peace of mind knowing that the RDX is designed to protect you and your passengers. Acura's commitment to safety is evident in the design and engineering of the 2019 RDX, making it a top choice for safety-conscious buyers. The combination of passive and active safety features makes the RDX a standout in its class. From its robust body structure to its advanced driver-assistance systems, the 2019 Acura RDX is designed to keep you safe on the road.
Trim Levels and Key Features
The 2019 Acura RDX is available in several trim levels, each offering a unique combination of features and equipment. Understanding the different trims can help you choose the RDX that best fits your needs and budget. The base RDX trim comes well-equipped with standard features such as a 10.2-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a panoramic sunroof, and the AcuraWatch suite of driver-assistance systems. This makes the base RDX a great value for those who want a well-equipped luxury SUV without breaking the bank. Stepping up to the Technology Package adds features such as leather upholstery, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a premium audio system. This trim level offers a good balance of luxury and technology features, making it a popular choice among buyers. The A-Spec trim is designed for those who want a sportier look and feel. It includes unique exterior styling elements, such as dark chrome accents and larger wheels, as well as sport seats and a thicker steering wheel. The A-Spec trim also includes the features of the Technology Package. For those seeking the ultimate in luxury and technology, the Advance Package is the top-of-the-line trim level. It includes features such as a head-up display, a 360-degree camera system, and adaptive dampers. The Advance Package also includes heated and ventilated front seats, as well as heated rear seats. Here's a quick breakdown of the key features of each trim level:
- RDX (Base): 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, 10.2-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, panoramic sunroof, AcuraWatch safety suite.
- Technology Package: Adds leather upholstery, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, premium audio system, navigation.
- A-Spec: Adds unique exterior styling, sport seats, thicker steering wheel, A-Spec badging, includes Technology Package features.
- Advance Package: Adds head-up display, 360-degree camera system, adaptive dampers, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats. Each trim level of the 2019 Acura RDX offers a compelling package of features. Whether you're looking for a well-equipped base model or a fully loaded luxury SUV, there's an RDX trim that's right for you. The choice ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Consider what features are most important to you and which trim level offers the best value for your money. The 2019 Acura RDX is a versatile SUV that can be tailored to fit a variety of lifestyles. From its spacious interior to its advanced technology features, the RDX is designed to impress. The availability of multiple trim levels ensures that there's an RDX for everyone, regardless of their budget or preferences. Acura has done a great job of offering a range of options, allowing buyers to customize their RDX to perfectly suit their needs.
Common Problems and Maintenance
Like any vehicle, the 2019 Acura RDX may experience some common problems and requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Understanding these potential issues and maintenance needs can help you keep your RDX in top condition. Some of the most commonly reported problems with the 2019 RDX include issues with the infotainment system, such as glitches, freezing, and connectivity problems. While Acura has released software updates to address some of these issues, some owners may still experience occasional problems. Another potential issue is related to the automatic emergency braking system, which may sometimes activate unnecessarily. This can be a frustrating experience, but it's important to remember that this system is designed to err on the side of caution. If you experience this issue, it's recommended to take your RDX to an Acura dealer for inspection. Some owners have also reported issues with the paint quality on the 2019 RDX, with some complaining of premature chipping or fading. If you notice any issues with your RDX's paint, it's important to address them promptly to prevent further damage. In terms of maintenance, the 2019 RDX follows Acura's maintenance minder system, which alerts you when it's time for service based on your driving conditions. Regular maintenance tasks include oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks. It's important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule to keep your RDX running smoothly and prevent costly repairs down the road. Acura recommends using premium gasoline in the 2019 RDX to ensure optimal performance and fuel economy. While it's not strictly required, using premium fuel can help to keep the engine running smoothly and prevent the buildup of deposits. It's also important to keep your RDX clean, both inside and out. Regular washing and waxing can help to protect the paint from the elements, while keeping the interior clean can help to prevent wear and tear. If you experience any problems with your 2019 RDX, it's important to take it to an Acura dealer for diagnosis and repair. Acura technicians are trained to work on Acura vehicles and have access to the latest diagnostic equipment and repair procedures. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your 2019 Acura RDX running smoothly and reliably. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and addressing any problems promptly, you can help to ensure that your RDX lasts for many years to come. Understanding the common problems and maintenance needs of the 2019 RDX can help you be a more informed owner and keep your vehicle in top condition. Acura's maintenance minder system is a valuable tool for tracking your RDX's service needs and ensuring that you stay on top of regular maintenance tasks.
Is the 2019 Acura RDX a Good Car?
So, the million-dollar question: Is the 2019 Acura RDX a good car? The short answer is a resounding yes. But let's delve into why this SUV has garnered such positive attention and whether it's the right fit for you. The 2019 RDX represents a significant step forward for Acura, showcasing a bold new design, a powerful turbocharged engine, and a host of advanced technology features. It's a vehicle that competes strongly in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and value. One of the key strengths of the 2019 RDX is its performance. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers ample power for daily driving and highway cruising, while the available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhances traction and handling in various weather conditions. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a refined driving experience. The interior of the 2019 RDX is another standout feature. The cabin is well-crafted with premium materials and offers plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. The infotainment system, while taking some getting used to, is packed with features and offers seamless smartphone integration. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasure. Safety is also a top priority for the 2019 RDX. The SUV has earned top safety ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS, thanks to its robust body structure and comprehensive suite of safety features and driver-assistance systems. Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking help to prevent accidents and protect occupants. In terms of value, the 2019 RDX offers a lot of features for the money. It's competitively priced compared to other luxury SUVs in its class and comes well-equipped even in its base trim. The availability of multiple trim levels allows buyers to choose the RDX that best fits their needs and budget. Of course, no vehicle is perfect, and the 2019 RDX has its share of minor drawbacks. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, and the touchpad interface may not be to everyone's liking. However, these issues are relatively minor and don't detract significantly from the overall driving experience. Overall, the 2019 Acura RDX is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish, comfortable, and technologically advanced luxury SUV. It offers a compelling blend of performance, features, and value, making it a standout in its class. Whether you're looking for a daily driver or a family vehicle, the 2019 RDX is well worth considering. The positive reviews and strong safety ratings speak for themselves. Acura has created a winner with the 2019 RDX, a vehicle that is sure to impress even the most discerning buyers.
Conclusion
The 2019 Acura RDX is a remarkable vehicle that has made a significant impact in the compact luxury SUV market. Its combination of sporty performance, luxurious interior, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of buyers. Acura has truly stepped up their game with this model, addressing previous shortcomings and delivering a vehicle that can confidently compete with the best in its class. From its eye-catching exterior design to its spacious and well-appointed cabin, the 2019 RDX exudes quality and sophistication. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power for any driving situation, and the available SH-AWD system ensures confident handling in all types of weather. The interior is packed with technology, including a user-friendly infotainment system and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. Safety is paramount, and the 2019 RDX has earned top marks in crash tests, thanks to its robust construction and comprehensive safety equipment. While the touchpad interface may take some getting used to, it ultimately provides a precise and intuitive way to control the infotainment system. The RDX's value proposition is also a major selling point. It offers a lot of features for the money, making it a smart choice for those who want a luxury SUV without paying a premium price. The availability of multiple trim levels allows buyers to customize their RDX to perfectly suit their needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a comfortable daily commuter, a capable family vehicle, or a stylish weekend cruiser, the 2019 Acura RDX delivers on all fronts. It's a vehicle that is both enjoyable to drive and practical for everyday use. Acura has created a winner with the 2019 RDX, and it's a vehicle that deserves serious consideration if you're in the market for a compact luxury SUV. The 2019 Acura RDX is a testament to Acura's commitment to innovation and quality. It's a vehicle that stands out from the crowd and offers a driving experience that is both rewarding and enjoyable. If you're looking for a luxury SUV that offers a perfect blend of style, performance, and value, the 2019 Acura RDX is definitely worth a look. This SUV has set a new standard for Acura and is a shining example of what a modern luxury vehicle should be. The 2019 RDX is a vehicle that you'll be proud to own and drive.