The
Acura RDX(Chassis Code TB1) is
Acura’s first
compact crossover SUV. Originally previewed as the Acura RD-X
concept car, the production RDX had its debut at the 2006
New York Auto Show and went on sale on August 11, 2006.
The RDX takes over from the
MDX as Acura's entry-level crossover SUV, as the MDX continues to grow in size and price. Although the dimensions of the vehicle are similar to that of the
Honda CR-V, the RDX uses a unique
platform developed to handle the vehicle's advanced
all-wheel drive system.
A facelifted 2010 model went on sale in August 2009, adopting Acura's power plenum grille seen on its sedan models. Front-wheel drive was also added.
Engine
The RDX is powered by one of Honda's very few
turbocharged gasoline engines. The 2.3-litre
straight-4 K23A1 engine has all-
aluminum construction, an
i-VTEC head, and dual
balance shafts. It is also one of the first and only
four-cylinder powered
luxury SUVs. Honda's variable flow turbocharger reduces
turbo lag by using a valve to narrow the exhaust passage at low
rpm, increasing the velocity of the exhaust flow and keeping the turbine spinning rapidly. At higher rpm, the valve opens to allow more exhaust flow for increased boost. The engine also features a top-mounted
intercooler which receives air from the grille, channeled by ducting under the hood. The Acura RDX engine is rated at at 6000 rpm with a
torque peak of at 4500 rpm. The
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)...
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