acuranoobie

Hi everyone,

I'm looking into purchasing a pre-owned RDX, but I'm debating between a 2012 vs 2013 model. My question: does the variable cylinder management really make a difference in regards to fuel economy ?

mrgold35

The 07-12 RDX is a completely different animal compared to the +13 RDX. If you are looking for mpgs, then go for the +13 RDX with the 6AT+3.5L V-6. The 07-12 RDX can't achieve the same mpg number unless you really slow down and baby the turbo 4+sh-awd.

What sets the 1st gen apart from the 2nd Gen is the driving dynamics. The 07-12 RDX has the advantage as a driver's car with extra TQ, sh-awd, tight suspension, and aftermarket support (Hondata, flashpro, ETS intercooler, larger injectors, Progress RSB, Eibach springs, etc...). The 13 RDX would be closer to V-6 version of the Honda CRV or Rav4.

I would scratch the 12 RDX off your list if mpgs or comfy ride are that high on your list.

acuranoobie

thanks for the quick reply !

I currently have a Toyota Venza, and i find the drive to be very boring. I'm thinking of coming back to honda after my wonderful driving experience with my 3.2TL. Don't get me wrong, I would enjoy good fuel economy, but I like to have some performance as well.

Kaputnik

As mrgold said, they are totally different beasts. The driving dynamics are so different that it is critical to test drive each one.

The 1G are hoot to drive with the pluses and minuses mentioned above. With SH-AWD, the extra torque and its sprotier suspension/tire set up, you can really toss it into the corners. The 2013 are more comfy, quiet and better MPG but also boring to drive. Definitely find a 2012 with SH-AWD, and for 2013 go for at least the tech package.

jpelizza

ive been tossing around same question 2010-2012 Rdx or a 2013-2014 Rdx

I have driven test drive 2011, 2011, 2012 all drove great with some turbo lag but really fun to drive... I also test drove a 2013, was kinda boring to drive in comparison. Felt a lot bigger like my wife's 05 mdx... motor was much quieter but I hit the peddle and it was slow feeling...

in my mind if the 2013 + had sh-awd I'd prob go with that due to wife like it better (styling) but I think I want SH-awd so I'm still leaning heavily for 2010-2012rdx or getting my wife new mdx with sh-awd like 2010-2013 and then her 05 mdx be third car I can use at times....

i kinda like the 1g styling over the 2013-2014...

the inside is sharper per on the 2013 though

mrgold35

I would make sure to go for the sh-awd RDX because some folks had some problems with the drive shafts in the fwd version. If you are planning on doing the Hondata reflash, I think only the 2012 version can't do the standard $295+shipping reflash for and extra 26hp/33tq and faster spool time. Having both the RDX and MDX, I find the RDX is a lot more fun to drive and makes a better city vehicle (small size, turbo TQ, easier to park, better 360 degree visibility, touch more driver leg room). I like my MDX for 4 or more passengers, hauling gear, extremely comfy front and back seats, and long/quiet/smooth hwy drives of 1/2 day to 2-week vacations. The wide body MDX will fill a parking spot and pick wisely to avoid door dings.

Hondata Link: https://www.hondata.com/reflash-cate...eflash-rdx2007

acuranoobie

Just a little update everyone. I finally made my decision and bought a RDX 2011 SH-AWD premium package, midnight blue exterior and black interior, gently used, 80K kilometers (roughly 50 thousand miles). So far, such a great drive compared to the Venza that I traded in for. I really feel and hear the engine running, which is great! thanks for everyone's input, I will be probably be back here to read up on maintenance and updates!

mrgold35

Congrats on the new ride!

My first mods were 3M clear bra (front bumper, side mirrors, and headlights), window tint, and all weather floor mats. I have about +135,000 miles on my 08 RDX and it drive better now with my mods compared to the 1st day off the lot used in 2010 with 30K on the odo. When I had +2010 sh-awd RDXs loaners in the past, they seems to ride a little smoother; but, just as deadly in the curves compared to the 07-09 RDXs.

jpelizza

I agree with all of that . mdx great for hauling and smooth trips with kids. Figuring Rdx be great for work (I drive lots of back roads doing home care) and hauling kids on weekends for things.

Kinda looking for 2011 so the reflash 300$ otherwise 2012 I'd need flashpro (600$) right?

naturally there is a white 2012 tech only 16 mikes from me but they still too high on price. If they come down 1500 more I think I'd get it...

i did test drive a 2014 sante Fe sport turbo yesterday. It was ok but turbo was kinda disappointing I felt.... and I didn't feel like it wrapped itself around me like I do in Rdx...

Illustro

No doubt, the turbo 4 is a sweet combination. Even for long distance driving it's fun. I took our 07 on a 3500 mile round trip and it was a pleasure to drive.