2014 Acura RDX Crossover Review and Road Test

[@jwchoi721]

Alex. Watching car reviews is my hobby and i can honestly say you are the best. So detailed and information that is so useful. I actually just got this 2015 RDX after watching your video and my wife and i love jt. One question for you is about gas. I know that premium is recommended but dealer says regular is perfectly ok. I would like to see an explanation of how it affects the engine and or performance. Thank you so much for your awesome videos and will always check out your reviews before buying another car.

[@teepeerocks1]

Well, said, i bought a 2011 Mazda 6 GT, based on his review. were still very pleased.

[@frankhartranft2133]

First time I ever saw Alex on Autos. Wow! How do you do that? I don't think I've ever gotten more information faster in a KZbin video. You are the original fast talkin' slow walkin' man in the know. I buy low mileage used cars, not new. Then I use them up. This segment has been very useful to me as I shop for a replacement for my V6 2004 Accord Coupe. (A very good car, by the way. Love that V6. Sip gas. Haul ass. Almost 200,000 miles without a single repair; just normal scheduled maintenance and consumables like brakes and batteries. (second set of brakes; third battery. What a car). Great job on the video. Really.

[@nighthawkj30A4]

Bought my Basque Red Pearl ll 14 Acura RDX Tech 2WD back in May. One of the best Acura Crossovers you can buy.

[@Wrist-rolls]

Great review! My brain and wallet says go with the RDX, but my heart says go with the X3.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

That's a tricky situation.

[@carbonoxx]

x3 interior look like and feel like cheap, but exterior look pretty good...........for value rdx

[@bc67]

I hear you and feel the same way. To me, the 6 cyl turbocharged X3 had it all. Extremely fast, perfect size, mucho technology, etc., but in addition to a higher sticker price, insurance and maintenance will be much more expensive than the RDX. Tough decision. Moby Dick - you must have driven the X3 28, which I would imagine could be sluggish.

[@AB-jk7tw]

Great review Alex. This may be the last of the virtually bulletproof Honda / Acura vehicles.

[@JPL450]

A tow rating of 1,500 lbs scratches the RDX off my list. Even the XC60 can tow twice that amount. Also, thanks for your excellent reviews. They are the best I have found on KZbin and they have been very helpful in my research for my next SUV.

[@dcpc08161992]

Alex, you give one of the most complete and detail review videos. I love it. I own the 2013 RDX and there is only one minor detail you said that I kind of disagree... it the 'big glove box' remark. The glove box is very small and shallow on the 2013/2014 RDX, it barely enough room to hold its manual LOL.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

You should see some of the other glove boxes I have seen recently...

[@geoheath501]

DCPC: You may not have noticed that the glovebox is a two-story design. There is an upper shelf that is ideal for holding the manual and documents. It might be bigger than you think.

[@CerberaLM]

Is that hood prop rod included with the Technology Pack?

[@NothingNowhere4]

Hey Alex. Why don't you throw a subscriber party in your basement? lol. I got plenty a crippy. lol.

[@shahedhasnat]

Hi Alex, Can you comment on the Vibration issue on RDX as well as MDX consumers all complaining about?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It seems that there are a mix of opinions on the cause. Some indicate that it may be the variable cylinder management system. If it is then it may be correctable in software or it may just be something that is just inherent in the system. I had no such issues with the RDX or the MDX or the TLX when in cylinder deactivation mode. Of course 3-cylinder mode will never be as smooth as 6 cylinder mode even with the active vibration cancellation.

[@shahedhasnat]

Thanks Alex. The salesperson informed me the following regarding the vibration: It appears these vibration issues were hit and miss on our MDX and RDX models in the past few years. I was doing a little research since you brought this up and spoke with our service manager today. Apparently on the 2015 models they have added two pins on each side of the engine to help stop that vibration issue when the vehicle is at higher speeds. Once again it appears this issue is hit and miss because I have read a few of the forums and some people notice it while others do not

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

shahed hasnat I'll see if Acura has an official comment.

[@shahedhasnat]

Alex on Autos Thanks. I will be following.

[@twystedhumour]

Shahed: I do notice the vibration, but only during low speeds of 25-30, and some on 40 mph. What Alex stated as a vibration-canceling mechanism is what's causing this on my car, and I'm glad that it's actually performing its directed function. No vibrations at higher speeds, anything over 45 mph, and I basically can't hear the engine unless I step on it to pass or climb. Oh, there was once instance at start-up that the vibration can be heard as a drone but, like Alex said, if it didn't send a counter-vibration then I'd hate to find out what that VCM is really like without the Active Engine Mounts. Alex: Thanks for explaining the AEM so thoroughly. It made me appreciate what Acura has incorporated in this vehicle more, and gave the RDX a lot more value in my eyes.

[@bronson8062]

"exclusive trunk comfort index" XD

[@juanzingarello4005]

How is this a value entry? You can't get anything for the money this car is worth. Even if you wanted to shell out extra for options NOTHING is available for this car. Its as high tech as a first generation Acura MDX back in 2000.

[@bcit1113]

Thanks Alex! I went to Acura for a test drive after watched this review. And bought a RDX Tech package eventually. I was actually comparing this RDX with X3, Q5 and the new Jeep Cherokee limited version. After the thoroughly comparison, I bought RDX because of its cost efficiency and reliability.

[@geoheath501]

I just bought 2015 RDX a couple of weeks ago and have been paying close attention. I was aware of the complaints and I am as fussy as about such things as anyone. I have detected nothing vibration or sound-wise. The VCM works invisibly and well. The RDX is a great bang for the $$.

[@nwjgoodguy]

I bought my RDX in January and love it. Having this been my first SUV, I love the fact that it's luxurious, easy to drive and everything about it is perfect. Prior to my RDX I had a Lexus is250, loved the drive, but always problems. Hope to have good luck with my new ride!!

[@ThatsMyBass614]

Do you still own it?

[@keithdowling54]

Hi, I'm in Alberta Canada - just started watching your reviews. I really like them, they are, in my opinion, about the best. No fuss, no flash, just good full, factual reviews. Great! Thanks

[@turo3066]

Alex--always love your highly detailed auto reviews. You are one of the best video reviewers on the web and I watch your videos like most people watch their fave tv shows!

[@icecubez130]

Hey *****, I completely agree with your review. I think as far as luxury crossovers are concerned, the RDX represents the best value. Even though the design is uninspiring (much better than the previous generation RDX, though), fit & finish as well as driving dynamics and looks is not as good as the BMW X3 or Audi Q5, you can't beat the value for the price. The German rivals are just priced too high. I was able to test drive the RDX and it was supremely comfortable, quiet, and luxurious. Sure the BMW and Audi are probably better but still doesn't justify the 5k to 10k premium you'll pay for them. Not to mention, the RDX is a bit more reliable.

[@ldawson103]

You made me want a rdx now.

[@Mphscat]

2024 and I just bought this SUV. I know I will love it. I own a 2003 Acura 3.2 CL and it's still an amazing car and gorgeous and timeless and it's my forever car. Hopefully this will be my forever SUV as well.

[@hipposnakeyo]

Great review, very informative, keep it up!

[@pjerph]

Can the RDX run OK on 87 octane gas. The Lexus RX 350 does.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Yes it can

[@maryreynolds8568]

Mine requires highest octane, and it even states that on the gas cap. It makes a difference.

[@clarityofthought]

2015 acura rdx or 2015 lexus nx300h? This will be my first vehicle to be financed.

[@ForgotToMentionThat]

These SUVs are starting to look better with age.

[@King_Kenny66]

I like the toned down grill and glad to see they didn't put those small, square leds in for headlights.

[@luc7976]

Sadly Acura is not giving same attention to RDX and the 2015 model is still not at same level as MDX, TLX or any latest Honda models: - nav/ent system is still gen behind and no color info instrument cluster display. - missing is Honda/Acura security features like lane departure warning, blind spot, ... - as mentioned no SH-AWD and I think suspension could use tuning of the heavier MDX to reduce body roll bit more. It's great value though since you can get it typically few K's below MSRP but unfortunate Acura doesn't update it to keep up with latest Acura/Honda models features.

[@kyleszarzynski4474]

74 decibels is silence in my car.

[@JordsterMovies]

I am in the market for a similar vehicle and got a chance to take an RDX for an hour-long no-salesman-present test drive. I'm very detail oriented and an enthusiast. Here are my impressions: Pros: - Engine sounds great and pulls strongly to redline. Sport mode on the transmission makes a big difference in pep - Seats are 7/10 comfortable, as Alex says, and the leather is soft for this price - Price is very low compared to a similar BMW or Audi, or even MKC. $6-8k difference in Canada, and that's comparing to the competition's 4-cyl turbo not 6. Cons: - Navigation feels like it belongs in 2005. Although for 2005 it isn't that bad. Clunky and low res. - Tight steering and floaty handling a mix that doesn't inspire much confidence. - Floaty and slow to respond at highway speeds. - Car is easily manageable, but not precise the way an X3 is. MXM4 tires probably don't help - Road noise and engine noise (as good as the engine sounds) is a LOT louder and harsher than the competition A mid-model-cycle refresh with the MDX's infotainment (which is at least up to 2011 standards) and (dare I dream) SH-AWD available would make this a great car. In the mean time, as Alex said, it's a great value if you can overlook it's quirks.

[@MahatasinAzad]

Great video!! After test driving most of its competition we purchased a RDX about a month ago. Now every morning I start the car I have a smile on my face :)

[@clarityofthought]

Which model is more reliable in your opinion? The RDX or the MDX?

[@acurarlxsporthybridshawd9508]

Yeah, go with RDX

[@brianwilson8924]

Thank you for these reviews! The best on KZbin, your research is great and you've helped a ton.

[@patrickcrowley3653]

Can you comment on the sound system on the tech model?

[@BarnabeeJones]

You praise the driving enjoyment of the RDX. Which do you prefer, this or that Tiguan R-Line you reviewed?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The Tiguan drives smaller (well, it is smaller too) but something like a XC60 would actually be better.

[@illmæticz]

@ 14:27 that smile you have when vtec kicked in yo Lol, nice review.

[@gtinseattle]

Thank you Alex. Great and very professional review :)

[@GBraidi78]

I love the RDX, very nice CUV and I see it alot on the roads. I have a question for you, did Honda start the cylinder deactivation on their 2004 oddyssey calling it VCM?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Yes. Honda started it in 2003 with the Japanese market Honda Inspire which is sort of a luxury Accord. In the USA it started in the Accord Hybrid and the Odyssey in 2005, the Pilot in 2006 and the RDX / RLX in 2013 and the MDX in 2014.

[@pez300]

someone is dragging a dead body 4:42

[@vincecarter5447]

Parsa Zadeh lmfao

[@stewartstarling2309]

Damnnnnnnn I saw that!!

[@Paulose54]

Better power plan than the competition

[@kc5077]

At first I'm thought you were reviewing the Acura MDX. I totally forgot the RDX still exists and in making it look so much like an MDX, really didn't notice a difference until you were standing by it.

[@johnmcmullen5000]

I loved all the detail. Found it very helpful. Thanks Alex!!

[@christianszeliga9762]

Can you show a base model

[@jeguzmanv]

Very good Review!

[@gene978]

This is the only brand I really don't hear that much about anymore. And I thank you Alex for talking about it. I lost touch with all the Acura models and it's a shame.

[@mss627]

Yeah, but the BMW's repair costs are much higher over the life of the vehicle.

[@gmike912]

Brilliant!

[@MesutMeterelliyoz]

Can you also compare the cars in terms of depreciation and cost to owner by time through repair?

[@ChristopherWalkenPUA]

I wish they would put turbos in the V6 in this and the MDX.

[@ericfont]

Excellent - best car review I've ever seen !

[@TerryMiesen]

Very nice.

[@datamasters-harris1782]

An amazing video. Thank u

[@whiplash1825]

Hey Alex. I would like your thoughts and comparison with latest X3.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I really like the BMW X3, the 3.0L version, with the dynamic handling package is my absolute favorite, I would take it over the Audi SQ5 even though the SQ5 objectively accelerates faster. The new SQ5 is now my second place with the XC60 T6 RDesign in third. However, the SQ5 is crazy expensive and the X3 is $10,000-$13,000 more than the RDX. While I think that the X3 is the superior vehicle in many ways to the RDX I am hard pressed to find $10,000 of additional "value" in the X3. That's the real problem when you try to compare things logically. I find myself emotionally drawn to the X3 and XC60 but when you do the numbers the RDX is 95% the vehicle for 80% the price.

[@endiktu324]

Alex on Autos HI Alex, How reliable is X3? Thanks

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Endiktu Less reliable than the Japanese alternatives but not as bad as you might think. Reliability research like JD Power and Consumer Reports include complaints about cupholders and infotainment system user friendliness in their reliability scores and iDrive hurts BMW's numbers. I like iDrive so I don't think that makes much sense to me.

[@endiktu324]

Alex on Autos How long does X3 last? I have Honda for 10 years and never really give me problem. Is X3 about the same half of Japanese car? Thanks

[@endiktu324]

Alex on Autos Thanks..

[@snikfard]

Any word on VCM vibration issue? Did you notice any strange vibrations from the front end while test driving? I'm considering buying one but this issue makes me nervous, but it could be exaggerated.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I have never had an issue with the Acura VCM system, so I can't really comment.

[@snikfard]

Alex on Autos Wow! Was that ever a quick response! Thanks for the info!

[@johnadkins6139]

Boosie regal dully

[@rickymarshal3383]

Hi! Great review, I would like to know if this car can use regular fuel?

[@ogjk]

Ricky Marshal it can but it recommends premium

[@johnadkins6139]

Buick regal gs

[@molaroismorais1758]

Cool..

[@tiha6708]

GRRRRREAT REVIEW!!

[@baldheadlogic]

Alex, Good job Man..Keep these informative videos coming...

[@checktheezout]

Hi! Great review as usual! Can you tell me if the rear seat legroom is the same in the RDX 2013?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

JOHNNY JEE Yes it is the same

[@checktheezout]

Alex on Autos Thanks for that quick answer. I'm looking foward to buy an RDX 2013-2014 AWD but I've red about vibration issues due to the engine (VCM) and clunk noise (rear shock absorber). Do you know if it is a commun problem on the rdx 2013-2014? Would you still recomend it?

[@jauffins]

I've also heard of issues with the roughness/vibration of the new Honda 3.5. Haven't driven a model with the new engine yet to substantiate, though.

[@aujla7564]

also the tourque peaks 5000, shouod be 4000, basically a vtec engine lol

[@MrVatera]

How reliable is RDX?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Like most Acura models it is typically at the top of the charts in terms of reliability.

[@dcuccia]

Quieter on the road than a CX-5 GT?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Yes, by a hair.

[@dcuccia]

Cool, thanks

[@shahedhasnat]

I wish RDX had blind spot monitor system.

[@lawrencewald196]

That is the big downside to the RDX…looking at the Subaru or the Nissan Rogue and both have really paid attention to safety systems.

[@shahedhasnat]

I really liked this RDX on test drive but it lacks all the advanced features like - Blind spot, adaptive cruise control, lane departure etc. which you can get almost every luxury and even non-luxury cars. Another downside of RDX (and also the MDX) is the vibration issue.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Lawrence Wald I agree that this is an issue, however Subaru especially has a very low take rate on the systems and even the luxury marques don't really shift that many with the advanced safety features. I think it's a real pity because I think they are a very useful safety aid.

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

Alex on Autos We ordered our 2015 Subaru Forester XT-Touring with the Eyesight monitoring system because it works well, adds value, and reduces the insurance costs. But yes, the vast majority of vehicles are sold without that option chosen.

[@juanzingarello4005]

shahed hasnat Its a shame too because I actually like its conservative but modern style and perfect not too small not too large just right size. But this car is as high tech as a 2000 MDX. Only heated front seats available, no wood trim, no rear-seat vents, no rain sensing wipers, no heated steering wheel. These are ALL common features in cars in this class. That was a huge deal breaker for me. I'm paying good money for a luxury car I expect it to have tech not be a V6 CR-V. Also, this is a problem all across Acuras lineup. Each car is always lacking common luxury features and lags behind the competition.

[@coconutz870]

Can’t fit two Super Big Gulps in the rear cup holders? PASS!!!

[@ttgnam81]

Hi Alex, is the 6 speed transmission same as that's in the new Pilot?

[@jimmacmurdo355]

Alex, word from an Acura dealer is that a 2016 RDX, with interior features modeled after the current MDX, will be out in the Spring of 2015. Have you heard anything to that effect?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Acura usually keeps their secrets well hidden when it comes to refreshes. A 2016 model year refresh would not surprise me, but I wouldn't expect too much out of the refresh other than LED headlamps and a possible infotainment refresh.

[@jimmacmurdo355]

That sounds very close to what I heard. New 2 screen infotainment system, FCW with ACC, and multi lens headlamps. Thanks.

[@AleksandrBlekh]

Jim, perhaps you've seen the relevant page on the Acura's site with some photos and basic info (www.acura.com/FutureVehiclesRDX.aspx). However, just two days ago a 2016 RDX model was presented at 2015 Chicago Auto Show. See this nice blog post with more details, photos, video and Acura's press release: www.autoblog.com/2015/02/12/2016-acura-rdx-chicago-2015.

[@FrostyZoob]

Alex on Autos Hey Alex, the 2016 RDX is now rolling out to dealers. Any chance you can review a 2016 AWD with Advance Package soon? I'd love to know if there's any improvement on how it drives. (The Acura press release notes a "a broader torque curve", "increased suspension mount stiffness", and that the AWD system "has been tuned for greater rear torque bias" - do those comments actually amount to anything or are they just PR fluff?) I also look forward to your thoughts of the new infotainment system.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Mike Zuber I should have one soon, hopefully in a month or so.