2023 Acura RDX Review

Shopping for a luxury SUV? Consider the capable and comfortable Acura RDX.

If you're in the market for a luxury compact crossover, you have plenty of options. Along with the German standards (the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and all-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class), the 2023 Acura RDX competes with the Lexus RX, Infiniti QX50, and Genesis GV70. While the 2023 RDX looks ready for a redesign, the current generation still has a few points in its favor. Conservative but attractive styling, a potent powertrain (although no hybrid is available), and a comfortable cabin make it a strong buy. Watch Mark Takahashi's full test drive review video for more information!

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Presenter: Mark Takahashi
Cinematography: Phil Shuyler

#acura #rdx #review
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0:00 The 2023 Acura RDX
0:30 Exterior
1:24 Powertrain
2:12 Driving Impressions
4:06 Interior
7:20 Rear Seat and Cargo Space
8:08 Pricing
9:05 Final Thoughts

[markwollenweber]

Reliability is never mentioned in luxury category reviews. Mercedes, Audi and BMW kill you after 60k miles. Honda based cars will get you to 150k trouble free. That is such a big deal. I’ll never buy an Audi or BMW again.

[padredave]

I daily drive a 2019 RDX A-Spec. I am now at 80, 000 miles of trouble free driving. I have Eibach springs which lower the car about 2”. I replaced the stock brakes with drilled/slotted rotors and carbon ceramic pads. I run Michelin PilotSport 4 SUV at a larger and wider than stock. This car is the best I have ever owned. Period!

[tariquenewaz]

62K on my 2020 RDX. Fun to drive and safe. Specifically, it made a complete emergency stop during an accident (traffic jam) on the ramp and saved us.

[terracewhite]

I like the RDX, size, design, and features, especially on the A-Spec trim. However, I believe it’s time for Acura to redesign the center stack.

[jeffmarsico]

I took delivery of a new 2023 RDX A-Spec Advance (the exact interior and exterior color as the one reviewed) a week ago. No regrets. Very fun to drive. I also had concerns about the track pad, but once you get things set up to your preference, it's not hard to live with. Things like controlling audio volume, navigating through your music choices, answering the phone can be done on the steering wheel. Also Apple CarPlay is easy to use and voice controls work well. As pointed out, the HVAC system and seat heating/ventilation are done with hard buttons. And the HUD is fantastic!

[ChrisHodges]

Good review. I’m and RDX owner and am very happy with my choice. Features, Value, and low maintenance. Love the sexy German models right up until you pay the maintenance bills.

[ranns]

We bought an RDX 2/2024. Love it. I have always loved my Honda Odyssey, and passed it down after 13 years of ownership, 120, 000 miles, and still it has no noticeable issues Therefore, I knew I wanted to stay with Honda. My Acura is the perfect size for me, now that I am an empty nester. The center console is not an issue at all. I had to get used to the push button technology, but times they are a changing. I have tons of room in the front seat. All in all I love it!

[ChemistrywithDrB]

My wife and I love our Acura RDX 2019. It’s such a comfortable and fun car to drive

[paulbutler]

I just purchased a 2023 RDX and really like it. It was only put into use by the dealership as a courtesy car in Jan 2024, and so its only 9 months old with just over 3, 000 miles on it. This review was very helpful.

[tomfaz]

I appreciate the fact that this review gave the pros and cons of the RDX unlike other reviews that just go over the press kit. Artificial engine noise is piped in through the speakers. Hopefully the 2025 model will have a touchpad and improved gas milage. Still my number one choice for a small SUV.

[Blackandwhitecat-uv]

Toss up between this and the boring Lexus RX. I’ll probably get the Acura. Good review.

[joshharrison]

Every car reviewer seems obligated to bash Acura's track pad in favor of a touch screen. But the track pad works quite well and you get used to it quickly. I for one like reaching down to the pad as opposed to reaching up to a screen. I do agree with you on the transmission buttons and driving mode button: those are gimmicky and unnecessary... although if you criticize the RDX for having them I'd point out that the brilliant NSX does as well.

[TruthHasSpoken]

Appreciate the infotaiment comment: "I probably won't ever really like it." Wouldn't think of spending $50k for such a vehicle. The dash is hideous too. I'll wait for the '25 redesign.

[EBP]

How is the front grill a little outdated?

[frankiemck]

Going from a 2018 Accord with the button shifter to a 2022 Colorado with a traditional shifter has really been a challenge to get used to again. The shifter is a bit in the way. I have to feel around to make sure I’m touching what I intend to touch. People knock the buttons. But it was easy to use.

[Adrian--A]

Great review! I will be back to hear more from you.

[linat]

I’ve been looking around at midsize suv I have to say I keep getting join back to the rdx it’s great for size not too small and every trunk. I’ve looked at the NX 350 to small look at the Mercedes GLC not really a fan and the BMW X.3 what I’m trying to decide on as if I should get the aspec advance or just the aspec

[Jstomper]

my only gripe with the trackpad is that it sometimes isn't responsive when i use android auto. but I love the trackpad and the button press transmission. trackpad you can operate the infotainment system without leaning forward. i went from a 2016 scion tc to a 2020 rdx w/ tech package and i've never loved a car more, it's only been 3 weeks since i've owned it but it's so good.

[ranns]

One of my big concerns is the Run Flat tires. You did not review this issue.

[Nitrobucket]

When Acura finally updates that entire console and gets more efficient, they can have my attention. For now, the winner continues to be Genesis