What Can We Expect From the 2023 Acura RLX?
The 2023 Acura RLX from available information will accept the very same fresh design language as the designs RDX and MDX crossover SUVs. Subjectively speaking, the RLX is a flagship sedan that is too excellent to be burdened a boring appearance. Proportionally it measures 198 inches, which is longer than competitors like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
The overall design is attractive, and this sedan is recognized by a small grille and thin LED headlights. It likewise features sporty lines present on the side profile with attractive 17-inch wheels. On the back, it looks the like before, real estate trendy LED taillight and bumper painted in body color.
2023 Acura RDX Review
Fun to drive and beautifully styled, the 2023 Acura RDX represents the best value among luxury SUVs—given you can live without the badge envy that BMW and Porsche offer as standard. The RDX’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine is powerful and snappy handling is satisfying on twisty roads, but the 10-speed automatic transmission and brake pedal feel could use some tweaking.
Inside, the Acura isn’t quite as grand as the Genesis GV70 or the Volvo XC60, though it does come standard with a similar level of technology and convenience features. Even considering its flaws, the 2023 Acura RDX practicality, pleasant road manners, and value-oriented price make it a good—if somewhat unusual—choice among compact SUVs.
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HIGHEST
Attractive base price, fun-to-drive chassis, comprehensively equipped from the start. -
LOWEST
The infotainment touchpad is finicky, the transmission is slow to downshift, and the cool A-Spec model looks sportier but isn’t. -
DECISION
The RDX is cheaper than its competitors to start with and offers the same luxury experience, even if its badge doesn’t carry the same prestige.
Aside from a free two-year/24,000-mile scheduled maintenance plan and free access to a three-year AcuraLink connectivity plan, the RDX enters the 2023 model year with no styling, feature, or powertrain changes.
2023 Acura RDX Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Each RDX is powered by a 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission and front- or all-wheel drive (or “SH-AWD” in Acura parlance). The A-Spec version we tested took 6.2 seconds to reach 60 mph on our test track, which places it in the middle of compact luxury SUVs.
The RDX throttle is responsive at low speeds and pulls away from traffic lights with enough force for most drivers. The transmission can be quicker to downshift, especially when the driver uses the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The turbocharged engine makes the RDX sound a bit like the NSX, with a high-pitched roar on hard acceleration, but most of that sound is artificial and is fed into the cabin through the audio system speakers. The RDX we rode has large 20-inch wheels and optional adaptive dampers that let you customize ride quality.
While our test vehicle failed to isolate the cab from harsh impacts on the roughest roads, it never made a loud sound or noise. The torque vectoring SH-AWD system also helps the RDX change direction quickly and is supported by steering with a precise feel.
The RDX leaned only when we were attacking the highway on grades, but other than that, the balance was excellent. Unfortunately, the brake pedal detracts from the experience, due to its inconsistent firmness and responsiveness.
2023 Acura RDX Engine Rumors
As far as the engine goes, we have no breaking news. There is only one choice, and that is a 2.0-liter four cylinders that can produce around 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard. All-wheel drive is available, and it helps a lot when an SUV is this big.
There are no hybrid powertrains for RDX as of yet. But we heard it through the grapevine that as of the 2024 model year, we might be getting an all-electric version of the truck. If this actually happens, which we hope it will, we can see Acura using systems similar to their competitors. Hopefully, the range on a single charge won’t be less than 300 miles. The quick charge must be an option since no one likes sitting at a gas station for too long.
Fuel Economy: 12/15
The EPA estimates the front-wheel drive RDX returns 22 mpg in city driving, 28 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg in combined driving. Opting for AWD lowers those estimates to 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined. The mid-grade A-Spec trim will lower highway estimates by 1 mpg.
These estimates are right in line with the Genesis GV70, which should return up to 24 mpg combined with its four-cylinder engine. The more powerful six-cylinder is estimated at 21 mpg combined. The BMW X3 barely edges out its rivals with a 24 mpg combined estimate for the rear-drive four-cylinder model and 24 mpg combined for all-wheel drive. The six-cylinder drops slightly to 23 mpg combined.
2023 Acura RLX Powertrain Options
The new 2023 Acura RLX will be offered with the same engines as its predecessor. That means we can expect once more the same setup of two engines. The base model is powered by a potent 3.5-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower. It also drives the front wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The RLX Sport Hybrid is a much better choice if you are looking more fuel-efficient car. This one uses the same 3.5-liter V6 and two electric motors, one driving each rear wheel. Unlike the base model, this one comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission with shift paddles. The whole system develops 377 horsepower and 341 lb-ft of torque combined.
How It Looks on the Outside
The exterior of the 2023 Acura RLX may not be that different compared to the current release. After all, it is a combination of sophistication and sportiness in a sedan. As some sources mentioned, the car is looking like a SUV to some extent, which is agreed upon by several other sources.
The car is looking cool with its 198-inch length, which is longer when compared to its lavish competitors: BMW 5 series as well as Mercedes Benz E-Class. In addition, the front grille is made quite narrow unlike the competitors. Its headlights are, too, made narrow. Yet, along with the taillights, both are mounted elegantly on the body of this Acura.
Aside from that, sporty lines on the car’s side make the car show off its sportiness. The wheels may not be that big as an SUV–which are 17-inch, yet for a sedan that is exactly more than enough.
Sources also mentioned that the car will also offer some new colors for the upcoming release; yet there is still no official announcement regarding this.
2023 Acura RLX Interior
Inside the Car
What about the car’s interior? There is no information still from the carmaker itself. Yet, the predictions mentioned that 2023 Acura RLX will always be using top-notch materials which is also followed by the nice cabin ‘architecture’. This ensures the users to feel comfortable while driving.
Aside from the top-notch materials used by the carmaker to bring the best from Acura, the car is also predicted to keep its spaciousness. Predictions sources mentioned that this car is providing around 38.8-inch legroom. While for the headroom, it is sized around 36.8-inch in the back seats. This is a pretty spacious size for a sedan.
Not only is it spacious, the car is also savvy enough when it comes to the technology used. You can get the dual screen for infotainment and navigation touchscreen. These definitely have been powered with the newest system which also is supporting Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, as well as Amazon Alexa. That said, you can connect your smartphone into the car seamlessly.
The seating of the car is using leather upholstery for this trim (RLX). To make it better, the front seats are also equipped with heaters–definitely to make heated front seats. So, while driving for a long time, you won’t feel uncomfortable while sitting.
The interior also features a moonroof and excellent navigation system. Not to forget, connectivity features such as Bluetooth and USB Port are also provided alongside the smartphone connectivity features.
Cargo Space & Storage: 14/15
Behind the rear seats, the RDX can hold up to 31.1 cubic-feet of cargo, though that figure is reduced if the seats are slid rearward and reclined. This space is larger than the Genesis GV70’s and the BMW X3’s, but only by a small margin. Folding the seat backs is easy thanks to remote-release latches in the cargo area. That expands capacity to 79.8 cubes. This maximum capacity is quite a bit larger than the GV70’s 57 cubic-feet and the X3’s 63. In this class, only the Jaguar F-Pace really comes close with a total of 69.1 cubic-feet.
Under the cargo floor is a large bin with a center drain plug. This could be especially useful if you have wet or dirty sports gear. There are also plenty of places to store your personal items, with a covered center console bin that houses a narrow tray and two cup holders, a moderately sized armrest bin, some small door pockets and a rubberized tray underneath the console (with a wireless phone charger if optioned out).
Acura RLX : Design
Inside, the 12-way standard heated front seats, and rear-seat space have improved significantly. The rear legroom is similar to a full-size luxury flagship sedan. An 8-inch screen, along with a 7-inch touchscreen are also standard. An optional badge 14 audio system loudspeakers Krell replaces used on the previous RL model Bose system. A mid-level 14-speaker Premium Studio ELS system with components from Panasonic is also optional. The Acura RLX ELS premium-based system uses 10 speakers. Hybrid models include an electronic gear selector transmission, and a Head-Up Display, with acoustic glass for the doors and windshield, and the navigation is standard. The 14-speaker ELS Studio Premium is a standard and optional Krell system.
Acura uses the Jewel Eye LED lights standard every five to separate LED light sources with 10 polished lenses (8 low beams, 2 roads). The headlights no longer turn curves fog lamps which do not offer. The hood, front fenders, panels, and exterior doors are made of aluminum, the use of aluminum in the RLX saves a total of 79.1 pounds on steel components. The hybrid comes standard with LED fog lights. The Acura RLX Sports Hybrid debuted at the 2013 Los Angeles International Auto Show. The total weight of the vehicle is up to 357 pounds, with weight distribution improved from 61:39 to 57:43 non-hybrids on hybrid models like Honda Legend offered in Japan.
Acura RLX : Engine
A 3.5-liter direct-injection “Earth Dreams” and with VTEC V6 Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), along with a 6-speed automatic transmission fuel consumption by EPA of 20/31/24 mpg (city/highway estimated/combined) and the maximum output of 310 hp. VCM fuel-saving system works either 6 or 3-cylinder arrangements, the new model uses sophisticated engine mounts avoiding the need for a 4-cylinder mode, which would result in a lower NVH. The Acura RLX Hybrid models have the ability to VCM and are added with a start-stop system to increase fuel economy even more. The RLX Hybrid also uses integrated with a 35 kW (47 hp) electric motor dual-clutch transmission 7-speed is powered by a 27 kW (36 hp) electric motor on each rear wheel. This configuration results in a vector pair hybrid wheel drive system with rear wheels strictly on electric energy.
The 1.3 kWh battery pack of 66 pounds of lithium-ion cells 72 is placed behind the rear seat. The total energy production has 377 horsepower and 377 pound-feet of torque. EPA estimated fuel economy improved at 28/32/30 mpg. The front sub-frame is made of aluminum. The Acura RLX front suspension uses a double-wishbone design, while the rear is a multi-link with an All-Wheel Steer (AWS-P) system accuracy. ZF Sachs (IF) provides shock absorbers, 18-inch wheels are standard, equipped with 19-inches wheels are optional harmonic noise reduction design, similar to the previous facelift used 2011 Acura RL function. Adjusting the suspension is oriented more sporty side of comfort.
Acura RLX : Safety
All Acura RLX models are provided as standard with a backup camera to see the polygonal rearview, an Advanced Collision Warning System (FCW), and a warning of a cut-off. The front seat belts were equipped with electronic boosters, an automatic braking front collision system, a line hold assist system, and flexible cruise control. There was an optional adaptive cruise control with low-speed tracking, a blind spot information system, and a car home screen. In 2016, the Surround View camera system was optional. Brakes with electronic brake controls, electronic brake distribution, brake aids, a quick steering assistant that applies brakes to the wheels on the curve, and a Car Stability Assistant were standard when the Acura RLX was stopped without using the brake pedal.
Real World Fuel and MPG Savings
The 2023 Acura RDX has a competitive EPA fuel economy rating near the mid-20s, with front-drive models getting slightly higher city and highway estimates than all-wheel-drive models. The former is rated at 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway; both numbers drop by 1 mpg when you select the all-wheel drive.
Opting for the A-Spec package reduces highway forecasting by 1 mpg, to 27 mpg with the front driver and 26 mpg for SH-AWD cars. We tested the RDX A-Spec SH-AWD on our fuel-efficient 75 mph route, which was part of our extensive testing regimen, and it clocked in at 26 mpg—true to its EPA rating. For more information on the fuel economy of the 2023 Acura RDX, visit the EPA website.
Cabin Features
The brand-new 2023 Acura RLX is the sedan that features an extremely contemporary cabin. Perhaps the very best feature of this model is its cabin that provides convenience and spaciousness. The front seats are comfy and supportive, and on the rear seats, there is 38.8 inches of legroom and around 36.9 inches of headroom. The overall interior decoration is pleasant, and we like the dual-screen infotainment that now supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Sadly, the Sport Hybrid’s battery pack eats truck space, minimizing the standard 14.9 cubic feet to just 12.
Related: 2023 Honda Ridgeline Hybrid Release Date & Specs
As basic equipment, the brand-new Acura RLX consists of leather upholstery, heated 12-way power-adjustable front seats, tri-zone environment control, moonroof, navigation, 14-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, USB port, and HD radio.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Each model includes some standard driver assistance technologies, but some additional assistance is available with the Technologies package. This includes front and rear parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alerts.
For more information on RDX crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key security features include:
- Standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
- Standard lane departure warning and lane maintenance assistance
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Is Acura Coming Out with a New RDX?
On the outside, there are some bigger changes coming up. First of all, we get a wider and longer 2023 Acura RDX. This might be done in order to improve stability, control, and overall driving feel. It is 2.8 inches wider and 2.2 inches longer. This doesn’t look like a big change, but those few inches added help a lot with the driving aspect. It translates really well to the steering control especially.
The new RDX also looks a bit taller, 0.6 inches taller to be exact. The overall design is somewhat similar. Some more curves were added to improve aerodynamics and ergonomics. This in turn improves wind drag resistance and greatly helps with fuel economy. Something we like to see improved in any vehicle regardless of its use.
At the front, we have a front fascia that is made from light materials to save weight on an already huge SUV. A big well-known Acura logo on the front is present, just like Jewel’s eye LED headlights. They are the latest technology which greatly improves visibility and safety, especially at night. Overall, the SUV looks quite stylish, we might even dare that the style is on par with other big names like Mercedes, for example. They have their Super performance all-wheel-drive. This helps with improving torque on the RDX. It can freely transfer torque to the back wheels or the left or right side as we choose.
Wheel rims are enormous, 19 inches, in particular, they are also made from lightweight materials. Using materials that aren’t on the heavy side helps with fuel economy. These changes aren’t too big but are sure enough to make us like the 2023 Acura RDX even more if that was possible. For an SUV that doesn’t pay too much attention to style and detail, it sure looks styled and flashy.
2023 Acura RDX Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the center stack is rather busy, with lots of buttons, a touchpad, and a large rotary drive mode selector sitting front and center. The version we tested has the striking red upholstery from the A-Spec package and a few other exclusive styling pieces.
While the cabin’s notable build quality and desirable standard features (ambient lighting; power-adjustable front seats, heating; dual-zone climate control) are appreciated, the RDX fails to feel luxurious. Acura provided a sportier experience than something like the Honda CR-V could ever provide.
Nothing feels cheap or cheap, and the driving position is high enough to satisfy SUV enthusiasts and flexible enough to appease the avid driver. The handles on the outboard seat release the back row so you can fold it flat.
Or you can lower the seatback from the cargo hold using the secondary release. We managed to fit in eight carry-on bags with the seats up and 22 with the folding bags. The 2023 Acura RDX also has a large passthrough storage tray under its floating center console.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Although not as luxurious as the Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV, the 2023 RDX still has quality materials and an exemplary shape. Ambient LED lighting is standard, along with heated front seats.
Good external vision is complemented by an elevated driving position and ample space. At 38 inches, the rear legroom is good enough for its class. 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, rising to 58.9 cubic feet when folded, comparable to the rival RDX.
The only problem is the touchpad on the center console controls the infotainment system. It’s similar to a laptop computer’s trackpad, so most of us will be familiar with it, but it can take some getting used to. We prefer to interact with the touch screen.
Each 2023 Acura RDX has a 10.2-inch touchscreen that sits high on the dashboard. It can also be operated via the touchpad on the center console. Acura calls its controller intuitive, but it took us a while to get used to it. The 2023 Acura RDX comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The optional Technology Package adds built-in navigation, rear-seat USB ports, a 12-speaker ELS Studio audio system, and more.
Is the 2023 Acura RDX Worth it? Which RDX is the Best Value?
Pricing for the 2023 Acura RDX starts just under $43,000 including fees and crests at almost $55,000 for the top A-Spec Advance trim. That puts it in league with the Genesis GV70 and makes it more affordable than a similarly equipped BMW X3. In all likelihood, it will also be less expensive than the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.
Within the RDX lineup, we suggest the Technology package as the value leader. For the $2,650 premium, you get a lot of upgrades that make this SUV feel more luxurious. These include real leather upholstery, a more powerful audio system and a wireless charging pad that pairs well with the wireless phone integration. The good news is there’s no engine difference between trims, so you won’t be missing out on any of the performance.
2023 Acura RDX Drivers
Some luxury compact SUVs are more interesting to drive than others. The 2023 Acura RDX is definitely in an interesting group.
It is very responsive to steering inputs, feels confident under braking, has decent power, and the 10-speed automatic transmission runs smoothly in the background. The regular RDX is comfortable enough, but stretching to the Advance package brings adaptive suspension with a spectrum of settings. All-wheel drive (AWD) is also included with this package.
It’s not just all-wheel drive—it’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive or SH-AWD, as Acura likes to say. It’s an intelligent system that distributes varying amounts of drive to each wheel to maximize grip, stability, and efficiency. 2023 Acura RDX offers SH-AWD either as an individual option or as part of the Advance package.
We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and researching the current collection of luxury compact SUVs, including this Acura RDX.
2023 Acura RDX Specs
In the grand scheme of luxury compact SUVs, the 2023 RDX has a fairly muscular standard engine. Some manufacturers have higher performance variants, but Acura has kept it simple.
The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine develops 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It’s passed through a 10-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels (FWD) in basic form, or an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system which is optional in lower trims, standard higher.
Acura recommends using 91-octane premium gasoline.
Maximum towing capacity is 1,500 pounds, which is fine for towing something like personal watercraft, but the BMW X3 can handle up to 4,400 pounds.
- 2.0 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder engine
- 272 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
- Torque 280 lb-ft @ 1600-4500 rpm Savings
- EPA city/road fuel: 22/28 mpg (FWD), 22/27 mpg (FWD, A-Spec) , 21/27 mpg (AWD), 21/26 mpg (AWD, A-Spec)
More Acura 2023 Acura RDX fuel economy information is available on the EPA website.
Our Favorite Features And Technologies
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Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
The convenience of wireless smartphone integration is one of everyday’s little joys. This is standard in RDX 2023. -
Power tailgate
Another standard comfort feature, eliminating the effort required to stretch and close. The hands-free opening comes with the Advance package. -
All wheel drive
More confidence in inclement weather, with greater grip and traction on dry terrain — a win-win that translates to fuel economy of only a mile or two per gallon. -
GPS-connected climate control
Part of the Technology package, this feature also uses a sun sensor for outside information so as to provide consistent interior comfort. -
Head-up display
It projects important information onto the windshield within the driver’s line of sight, increasing safety and reducing distractions. It’s part of the Advance package. -
ELS Audio
Developed with Elliot Scheiner, Grammy-winning recording engineer for Beyoncé and Fleetwood Mac, this incredible 16-speaker/710-watt system comes in the A-Spec model.
What’s Updated Inside?
As mentioned above, Acura is not known for luxuriously styled interiors and flashy cabins. They like to put all the things needed and place them properly in order to save space. This allows for some extra wiggle room. In 3-row, there is obviously enough room for 5 people to sit comfortably with extra legroom. There are extra storage compartments under the 2 back rows. If they are folded, we get an extra 95 cubic feet of space. This is something you don’t often see in an SUV and a sight that is most welcome. Having the ability to put an extra seat row in the back is very appealing to large families.
Otherwise, you get an extra-large trunk, and who honestly doesn’t like that. Of course, everyday life is the focus of the Acura designers, so nothing out of the ordinary. We have some chrome accents along with the instrument panel, which gives the feeling of the upper class, but not too much honestly. You can choose fabric, suede, and leather for your seat material. Talking about seats, they have some extra cushioning to make you feel comfortable. It will be interesting to see whether they are heated and ventilated, which would be amazing.
As we can see, there is a central infotainment system as expected. It is a 12.3-inch touchscreen that controls everything connected to the battery. There is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi hotspot right in the cabin. We can expect Acura to put their own safety system to help drivers in difficult situations. Softwares like these are scientifically proven to save lives in a clutch.
What Can We Expect From the 2023 Acura RLX?
The 2023 Acura RLX from available information will embrace the same fresh design language as the models RDX and MDX crossover SUVs. Subjectively speaking, the RLX is a flagship sedan that is too good to be saddled with a boring look. Proportionally it measures 198 inches, which is longer than rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
The overall design is attractive, and this sedan is recognized by a small grille and thin LED headlights. It also features sporty lines present on the side profile with attractive 17-inch wheels. On the back, it looks the same as before, housing stylish LED taillight and bumper painted in body color.