MSRP $32,995
240-horsepower,
2.3-liter, 4-cylinder
19 city/24 highway
More info: www.acura.com
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Acura describes its new RDX as a "TSX SUV." In theory, that's a mixed blessing. Their TSX is a terrific little sedan with bland styling. The RDX scores more design points, with its bolder headlights, sharper jet-like nose and more rakish creases. But beating the TSX is easier than sticking with the RDX's more stylish competition, including the Beemer X3 and Mazda CX-7.
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Here's a shocker -- the TSX is actually longer than the RDX, although the RDX feels roomier inside. The interior of this little SUV is so well planned that two 19-inch bikes fit upright in the rear. A lockable center compartment neatly holds a laptop or briefcase. Our bitch? The in-your-face instrument cluster is a garish bright blue. For an extra $3,500, pimp the RDX with the Technology Package, which features voice-recognition nav, rear-view cam and a pumpin' 10-speaker sound system.
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With the RDX, Acura rolls out its first turbo-charged engine. Talk about peppy -- the 2.3-liter, 4-cylinder motor cranks out a formidable 240 horses, with very little turbo lag. Acura's impressive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive distributes torque to the wheels that demand it most. The system worked wonders, as the RDX stuck to the streets of rain-slick Marin County like it was on rails. Even though the RDX doesn't offer manual transmission, its 5-speed auto includes F1-style paddle shifters that we found extremely smooth and responsive.
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If you have a girlfriend, she'll dig it. If you need a girlfriend, you might want to try something flashier.
-- John D. Thomas |
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