Turbocharged 2007 Acura RDX Blends Style, Luxury, Utility and Super Handlin
08/31/2006
Acura
The sport-luxury SUV marketplace is in an exciting state of evolution. With the arrival of Acura's new RDX 5-passenger Entry Premium SUV, this emerging market segment gets a decidedly "connected" spin. Not only does this all-new SUV combine the immediate response of Acura's first-ever turbocharged engine and the agile control of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), the RDX puts state-of-the-art communications, navigation and audio entertainment at the driver's fingertips. And the RDX delivers it all in keeping with Acura's long-established tradition of respect for crisp, contemporary styling and simple, intuitive operation that adds to the driving experience.
"The all-new RDX is an exciting entry to the Acura light truck lineup for 2007", said Dick Colliver, vice president sales, "The RDX's innovative powertrain coupled with SH-AWD provides this SUV with outstanding performance."
The RDX is aimed at high-energy urbanites that spend the workweek in the confines of the city, and then decompress on the weekends by getting away from it all. Regardless of where they go, these drivers expect the ultimate in responsiveness, control and adaptability. In the RDX, they get it.
Built on a new global light truck platform, the RDX concept was initiated in California and then developed in Japan. Besides featuring precedent-setting engineering features including Acura's first turbocharged and intercooled engine and the first adaptation of the SH-AWD(TM) system to an SUV, the RDX also offers Acura's first standard 18-inch wheels and tires.
True to form for Acura, the RDX incorporates a class-leading array of sophisticated electronic technologies that are seamlessly integrated to keep its passengers informed, entertained and in touch. The RDX also introduces safety technologies based on the fundamentals of Acura's "Safety Through Innovation" initiative.
As Acura's first Entry Premium SUV, the RDX was the focal point of the development of a special powertrain that would blend 4-cylinder efficiency and 6-cylinder power. The ideal solution came in the form of an innovative new Variable Flow Turbo (VFT) that delivers an unusually broad powerband with little or no lag in throttle response. The RDX is equipped with an all new 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve in-line four-cylinder engine with i-VTEC valve control that combines Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) with Variable Timing Control (VTC). With the Variable Flow Turbo working in concert with i-VTEC, the RDX delivers strong power and torque, excellent fuel economy and very low emissions.
Rated output for the RDX engine is 240 horsepower SAE net* at 6000 rpm. In terms of torque, the RDX has the highest output of any engine in the Acura lineup, with 260 lbs.-ft. of torque SAE net* at 4500 rpm. The RDX is expected to return an EPA certified 19/23** City/Highway mileage, while meeting strict CARB LEV-2 ULEV and EPA Tier-2 Bin-5 emissions standards.
A 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is standard. The electronically controlled drive-by-wire throttle and transmission work together to execute shifts, resulting in exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The transmission can function as a conventional automatic transmission or, at the driver's option, can be shifted manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddles.
SH-AWD(TM) is standard in the RDX to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness. SH-AWD(TM) is Acura's patented all-wheel drive system that distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels.
The system's direct yaw control helps reduce understeer to enhance steering accuracy and add to total cornering power. Responsive handling is further aided by fully independent front and rear suspensions.
The MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems are tuned for compliant control, and assisted with front and rear anti-roll bars for flatter cornering. Standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) with traction control further enhances controllability and grip.
The RDX exterior styling further emphasizes the SUV's sporty athleticism. It has a taut, muscular presence with standard 18-inch wheels and tires that work together with large wheel arches, aggressively raked body sides, a steeply raked windscreen and a short rear overhang. A unique rear hatch, finished with a replaceable panel to reduce the cost of accident repair, allows the rear of the body to smoothly transition to the rear bumper. This permits a more custom look and also eases the act of loading and unloading cargo.
Inside the RDX, the front-seats feature a high "eye point" that provides a confident field of view. The 3-passenger rear seat has a 60/40 split-folding capability and, when folded flat, significantly expands the load area and increases the cargo volume to 60.6 cubic feet of storage. There are multiple interior storage compartments positioned throughout the interior, including a large (and lockable) dual-level center console located conveniently between the front seats that can securely accommodate a briefcase.
The RDX features an array of electronic features that set it apart from the competition. These include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a Multi-Information Display (MID), and LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination. Also standard is an impressive 360-watt 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with a multi-format 6-disc changer, AM/FM tuner, XM(R) Satellite Radio, and the convenience of an M`P3/auxiliary input jack for easily connecting audio devices such as an iPod(R).
Just one optional package is offered on the RDX. The Technology Package heightens the RDX's appeal to technology-savvy customers with a range of advanced features. The centerpiece is a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround(TM) Premium Sound System designed by legendary recording engineer Elliott Scheiner.
When playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-A), this advanced 410-watt system delivers eight discreet audio channels (instead of the usual two) to create an uncannily accurate listening experience. With its multi-format 6-disc DVD-A changer, AM/FM tuner and XM(R) Satellite Radio, the system is as versatile as it is powerful.
The Technology Package also includes several information and communications features such as HandsFreeLink(TM) and Acura Navigation system. HandsFreeLink is a wireless telephone interface that is designed to work with many Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones (sold separately).
In addition, the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.
The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow, accident, construction and weather conditions on freeways in 31 major metro areas (where available). When the transmission is placed in reverse, the Navigation screen displays the image from a rearview camera to make parking easier. In addition, the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.
Technological leadership also extends to safety engineering. The RDX's Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure substantially contributes to passenger safety in frontal collisions. ACE(TM) distributes collision loads through the body structure, leaving the passenger cabin more intact for improved occupant protection. Specially designed frame members make the RDX more compatible with smaller vehicles in the event of a vehicle-to-vehicle frontal collision. Likewise, a specially engineered hood and other components help reduce the chances of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision with the vehicle.
Inside the RDX is a full complement of passive safety features. Key technologies include the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. Child-seat mounting systems, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), allow the quick and secure installation of a child seats.
The RDX will be assembled at Honda of America manufacturing plant in Marysville, Ohio, on the same assembly line as the Acura TL sedan. It is the first Acura light truck to come from the facility.
Like all Acura models, the 2007 RDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.