Boon

I just noticed on the RDX Acura.com site, under "Features & Options --> Performance" that they put on a new (?) blurb about the NVH system. Did Acura actually add components and create this new "NVH Control"...or is it just a fancy marketing way of saying they softened the suspension, made the engine quieter, and reduced road noise?

Here's the excerpt that piqued my interest:

"The exceptionally stiff structure of the RDX successfully filters out body flex and vibration. The large trailing arms and floating bushings of the rear suspension are effective in reducing both noise and harshness. The mounting points for both suspensions were carefully engineered to reduce the transmission of noise, vibration and harshness into the passenger cabin as well as help the RDX achieve a solid feel in your hands."

doctyphoon

Interesting question. I just talked to a dealer yesterday who said that the suspension calibration was softened for 07 RDX's produced after March and that it is carried over for 08. Truth or rumor? I would like to know, as I am deciding between an 07 & 08.

Nyjumpman23

It's confirmed that the suspension is re-tuned on the '08 model.

brizey

My 2007 was produced after March (May). It is still pretty stiff.

chipt911

I believe the 07 RL had NVH. It doesn't have anything to do with the ride, just makes it more quiet with less vibration. I don't have a problem with noise or vibration with my 07 anyway.

Ralonzo

I have the vibrations on my '07, build in January.

Chas2

I interpret this "new" feature in the web site as just expounding upon the extensive NVH engineering that went into the development of RDX chassis and engine. Suspension tuning in and of itself is only a part of NVH. This web featurette talks about specific structural and other design elements that were used to reduce NVH, typically something that cannot be retrofitted. NVH should be addressed during the structural design phase.

Specific methods for improving NVH include the use of Tuned mass dampers, Subframes, balancing, modifying the stiffness or mass of structures, retuning exhausts and Intakes, modifying the characteristics of elastomeric isolators, adding sound deadening or absorbing materials, or using active noise control. In some circumstances, substantial changes in vehicle architecture may be the only way to cure some problems cost effectively.

If they did soften the suspension settings, this featurette certainly does not address that, although softening suspension will affect NVH, as well as handling.

Acura has always claimed NVH was a priority in the design of all their vehicles, including the RDX, as evidenced in this excerpt from their 8/31/2006 press release for the 2007 model year RDX. Notice that this is very similar to the lead in for the NVH featurette.

http://www.hondanews.com/categories/762/releases/3564
Noise, Vibration And Harshness

The city is a challenging environment and a great test of a vehicle's NVH. Varied street surfaces, construction zones, potholes and other navigational hazards mean the body structure - together with tire and suspension tuning - has to address a wide range of NVH issues.

Engineering rigid front and rear suspension mounting points was key to achieving a low NHV character in the RDX. The low road noise allows easy conversation between the driver and all seats. Internal Acura tests measured the RDX at 71 decibels during city driving speeds, similar to other luxury vehicles.