bgillette79

Found this on Acuranews.

I love how they get WORDY with what they call "new" features.


The 2010 MDX Crushes the RDX in terms of MMC and what they added.



Never content resting on its laurels, Acura brings to market the 2010 RDX with a fresh new exterior look, a more luxurious interior, and a host of new technology features. For 2010, the RDX is now available with a two-wheel drive option which offers improved fuel economy and a lower price point over its SH-AWD™ counterpart.
"The RDX has always offered a unique mix of great performance, good utility, lots customer relevant technology and sharp looks- but for 2010 these attributes get even better," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "The availability of a new 2WD model with improved fuel economy and a lower price make the 2010 RDX a smart choice."
The RDX continues to be the compact luxury SUV of choice for drivers with energetic lifestyles who need a responsive and sporty vehicle with plenty of utility and leading edge styling. 2010 marks the first time ever that the RDX is available with a two-wheel-drive option, which is appealing to customers who live in warmer climates and who don't need the all-weather capability all-wheel drive offers. Due to the decreased weight of the two wheel drive model, the RDX gets improved fuel economy over the SH-AWD model- resulting in an improvement of 2 mpg in the city and on the highway.
Externally, the 2010 RDX receives numerous changes resulting in a more aggressive, sporty appearance. Exterior changes include redesigned 18-inch diameter aluminum-alloy wheels, bold new front and rear bumper fascias, Acura's signature design front grille, revised headlights and taillights, new exhaust tips and satin trim accents.
While the RDX's sport-minded chassis remains the same, the 2010 model features revised braking system components that deliver better feel and enhanced durability. Also for 2010, the RDX receives several new standard interior features including a rear view camera system, electronic compass, a pull handle to make closing the rear hatch easier, auto-function headlights, ambient footwell lighting, a center console storage tray, improved cupholders, USB-port connectivity, and Note function for XM® Radio. Additionally, the RDX interior gets subtle changes to the leather, resulting in a richer, more premium look to the interior seating surfaces.
True to Acura's leadership in the application of advanced technology, the RDX incorporates a class-leading array of features that keep passengers informed, entertained and in control. Every RDX features as standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® connectivity with new Bluetooth®audio capabilities, a 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System and a new USB port that allows the connection of (and charging of) items such as an iPhone® or iPod®. For those who want to be even more connected to the world around them, the optional Technology Package includes Acura's signature Navigation System with Voice Recognition which has expanded voice capabilities for 2010. Additionally, the AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System with Real-Time Traffic™ now features Traffic Rerouting™ and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™.
The RDX also incorporates leading safety technologies based on Acura's "Safety Through Innovation" initiative including advanced front, side and side curtain airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist ™ (VSA™), ABS with Brake Assist and an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure.
Powertrain
The RDX is equipped with a turbocharged 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine incorporating computer-controlled "intelligent" i-VTEC® intake/exhaust valve actuation that delivers enhanced performance across a broad powerband. The heart of the RDX's performance is its Variable Flow Turbocharger (VFT) that delivers an unusually broad powerband with virtually no lag in throttle response. The turbocharger works in concert with i-VTEC® to deliver outstanding acceleration and efficiency while driving at a variety of speeds.
For 2010, the turbo system makes use of a new inlet pipe that is thicker to reduce noise during high boost situations and the RDX incorporate a dual-stage radiator fan to further reduce cabin noise.
Rated output for the 2.3L I-4 engine is 240 horsepower at 6,000 rpm with 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The RDX has an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating* of 19/24 mpg (RDX) and 17/22 mpg (RDX SH-AWD™) along with meeting EPA TIER 2 - BIN 5 and CARB LEV-2 ULEV exhaust emissions standards.
A performance-minded Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission is standard on the RDX and an electronically-controlled Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system works with the transmission to execute exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The Sequential SportShift feature allows the transmission to function in a conventional automatic mode or can be controlled manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
ChassisAcura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system is available on the RDX, helping it to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness in a variety of weather conditions. SH-AWD™ distributes optimum torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels while also being able to overdrive the rear wheels. The system's direct yaw control utilizes torque vectoring to help reduce understeer thus enhancing steering accuracy and adding to total cornering ability.
New for 2010 is a two-wheel-drive version of the RDX that offers a lighter vehicle weight, improved fuel economy and a lower purchase price. The 2WD RDX employs a front wheel drive drivetrain design, but otherwise retains the same exceptional chassis and driving dynamics for which the RDX is known.
Precise and responsive handling is generated by fully independent front and rear suspension. The MacPherson strut (front) and multi-link (rear) suspension system is tuned for compliant control, and the suspension is assisted by large-diameter front and rear stabilizer bars for flatter cornering. Standard to the RDX is Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control to further enhance vehicle controllability and grip.
For 2010, changes to the brake booster and servo deliver even better brake pedal feel along with less initial brake "grabbiness". In addition, the brake system makes use of revised rear brake pad actuation that delivers less drag and longer pad life; also added to the mix are Geomet-coated brake rotors for improved looks and added corrosion protection.
ExteriorRDX exterior styling further emphasizes the crossover SUV's sporty athleticism. Large wheel arches, aggressively raked body sides, steeply raked windscreen and a short rear overhang generate an RDX with a taut and muscular presence. A unique rear hatch allows for a smooth transition of the body to the rear bumper- a transition that delivers a more custom look as well as eases loading and unloading of cargo.
For 2010, the RDX gets a new front fascia, Acura's signature front grille, a hood with a new front edge design and updated HID headlights that are now controlled by a standard Auto on/off function. Looking at the side of the 2010 RDX you'll notice new wheels that team with the vehicle's wide track (61.9-in. front, 62.6-in. rear) to deliver excellent handling. At the rear, a much more aggressive bumper fascia, rectangular exhaust finishers, revised taillights and satin finish trim give the 2010 RDX a fresh new look.
Redesigned high-intensity discharge (HID) low beam headlights command the corners of the RDX's front fascia and fenders. The headlight's new design incorporates a "smoke style" chrome plating treatment and complements the angular pattern set by the Acura grille. Front bumper integrated fog lamps are standard on the RDX, and for 2010 they are mounted within separate side grilles located at the corners of the new front fascia. Both front and rear wheel arches are bold and broad, and new 18x7.5-inch 10-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels further add to the dramatic appearance of the RDX.
Interior
Inside every RDX, leather trimmed front seats deliver a high outward visibility "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 total cargo volume to 60.6 cubic feet.
Multiple storage compartments are positioned throughout the interior, including a lockable dual-level center console (that is large enough to accommodate a briefcase) conveniently located between the front seats. For 2010, two revised interior color themes are available: a darker, richer Ebony and; a lighter, more premium looking Taupe.
Acura interior design has always made intuitive functionality a priority, and in the 2010 RDX all important systems and controls now feature even more intuitive button placement along with easier-to-read markings. The systems used most frequently - audio and cruise control - have switches positioned on the steering wheel, and for 2010 the HVAC buttons have been moved closer to the driver. Technology Package items like Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Multi-Information Display (MID) and the AcuraLink™ Satellite Communications System can be controlled via switches on the steering wheel. AcuraLink™ messages consist of text displayed on the navigation screen, plus full details via Text-To-Speech can be heard over the RDX audio system. For 2010, the RDX has improved Text-To-Speech voice recognition with more words that can be recognized.
Also new for 2010 is a center console tray that is a convenient way to store items such as a wallet, spare keys, or an iPod®. In addition, integrated to the underside of the lid is a coin holder and place for holding credit or gate cards. New for 2010 is a USB port (also located in the center console) that allows for the easy connection of items such as an iPod®, iPhone® or a memory stick storage device. Standard is an Acura Premium Sound System with AM/FM tuner, 6-disc in-dash CD, MP3, WMA, XM® Radio, 7 speakers and a 360 watts watt amplifier. The RDX has soothing blue low-level ambient lighting in the ceiling that illuminates the front center console area, and new for 2010 is ambient blue footwell lighting.
For 2010, the available Technology Package adds even more capability, and integrates seamlessly into the RDX's performance-oriented driving environment. The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ has a revised 8-inch screen, improved navigation system feature use and content, and a faster reacting and more useful rear view camera. Non-Technology Package RDX's now get a standard rear view camera system with a viewing screen that is integrated into the auto-dimming rearview mirror.
With the AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™, the RDX driver can easily navigate around complex freeways. In addition, the navigation system now includes Traffic Rerouting™ that allows automatic rerouting around problem areas. Also new for the 2010 RDX is AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with weather radar image maps that provide weather tracking for area-specific, continually-updated weather conditions between your current location and your final destination.
Part of the RDX Technology Package is a spectacular Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system with 6-disc DVD-audio, CD/MP3/WMA player, DTS®, AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio, Dolby Pro Logic II 10 speakers and a 410 watt amplifier. The Acura/ELS® audio system was designed by 6-time Grammy® award winning sound engineer Elliot Scheiner. When playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-Audio is 500 times clearer than traditional CD), this advanced system delivers eight discreet audio channels (up from the usual two channels) to create an exceptionally accurate listening experience. For 2010, the Acura/ELS Surround® audio system receives a Note function for XM® Radio that allows the driver to later recall the song title, artist, a short excerpt of the actual song along with the XM® channel that played the song.
The Technology Package also includes a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, automatic climate control system. In total, these advanced technologies put the RDX at the cutting edge of the Entry Premium SUV segment.
Safety and Security
The RDX's technology leadership also extends to safety, where a long list of advanced features, including an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure allow the RDX to achieve NHTSA's top rating (5-Stars) for both frontal and side impact crash tests**
The ACE™ body structure employs a network of interconnected front frame structures that work to absorb and redirect collision forces away from the passenger cabin while helping improve crash compatibility with vehicles of different sizes in a frontal collision. A special frame member located below the RDX's front bumper is designed to engage the front bumper of a lower vehicle, allowing the bumper systems of both vehicles to attenuate crash energy more efficiently.
In addition, a specially engineered hood, collapsible hood hinges, breakaway wiper pivots and other features help reduce the chance of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision with the vehicle.
Inside, the RDX has a full complement of passive safety features. Key technologies include the latest generation of dual-stage, multiple-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger along with side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. The front passenger's side airbag features an Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) to prevent airbag deployment if a child or small-stature adult leans into the deployment path. LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat mounting systems allow the quick and secure installation of a child seats.
Like all Acura models, the 2010 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®, which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.
Acura
Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 270 dealers within the United States. The 2010 Acura lineup features six distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV, the MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the all-new ZDX four door sports coupe.
For additional information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries, please visit www.acuranews.com.
*Based on 2010 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
**Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side-impact air bags (SAB's).

MMike1981

instead of the VP dropping powered wheels as the answer to MPG, they should have revised/retuned the engine, just like they did with the sweetheart MDX...always trying to put lipstick on a pig

i dont understand why Acura places SO MUCH emphasis on the ELS..i mean seriously, its an above average stereo, even the newer one in the TL - its good but its not that good, im quite tired of the hammering Acura does with this tag

if its that good, why does the RL, their top o the line in the brand, use Bose? ud think if the ELS was really the balls, itd be the other way around

LynchFan

I have to say, the bottom line is this is just a "facelift".
As far as the facelift goes, Acura really screwed up on the one.

Not really regret on my 09 decision +1

Type34

Each of Acura's new redesigns has taken me further away from the brand...this is no exception...argggg

Type34

...except for the 2010 MDX...this is a pretty good facelift:


In looking at this, how Acura can eff up the RDX so bad I'll never know...

brizey

The MDX is big enough to pull off the beak. The RDX is close. The cars...not so much.

That being said, I despised the Audi tall-rectangle-thingy-in-the-middle-thingy when it came out, and now it looks natural. I actually like it on the R8.

MMike1981

the only thing i can extract from Acuras pure neglect of the RDX is the possibility that either the RDX will be radically changing if they retain the vehicle for a real redesign, or, that its being dropped in favor of a new truck. There was literally no investment for the 2010 - adding a USB cable is just that, adding a connection & wiring. The backup cam is nice, but probably pulled straight from the Pilot.

just doesnt make any sense that the MDX, a top seller, would go thru that amount of changes, when frankly, i dont even think it needed ALL of them, but they are awesome changes, and the RDX, the biggest flunk in the lineup, gets zero. The RDX should have gotten a similar treatment, especially if Acura was serious about the future of the truck.

And, what i wrote from some of my initial thoughts about the refresh, the MDX got exactly what i was asking for in the RDX...the black trim carried about 90% around the side sills and cladding of the truck. Looks great on the MDX, and they brought the theme around almost the entire vehicle, i would have loved for them to bring the black trim over the wheel wells, but it still works. If they did it on the RDX, i think it would really pop.

MMike1981

most interesting & valuable thing ive read about the 2010 RDX, from Motor Trend - BETTER BRAKES/BRAKING SYSTEM

"While the RDX didn’t get any more go, it did get some more stop. Acura went through the whole brake system and retuned it to improve brake pedal feel and decrease the grabbiness that had reportedly been a slight issue with the old model. Along the way, Acura also made some adjustments to improve brake life and durability.

Along with the new gizmos, Acura also made some updates to the RDX’s interior. Improvements were made to the cup holders to make them more ergonomically friendly

Automatic headlights will now prevent drivers from forgetting to turn them on or off, and ambient lighting in the foot wells will make entry and egress easier in the dark. Acura also redesigned the center console storage area and the dual-compartment storage bin is now large enough to hold a briefcase. In addition to upgrading to higher quality leather for the seats and trim, Acura is also offering two new interior colors, Ebony and Taupe."

seems like MT has the scoop on it that no one else seems to have.

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...ook/index.html

MMike1981

additional quote - - "The only work under the hood involved a thicker intake pipe and a new, dual-stage radiator fan designed to reduce engine noise."

corduroygt

All this info in MT is copied from the Acura PR bgilette posted above.

MMike1981

yes...it is

sorry for the re-post of the info, but i found it odd that none of the info was actually written about in other mags and/or Acura's own website (not honda news, but actual Acura.com)

car and drivers first article is completely non-descript about that stuff.

thisaznboi88

iTrader: (7)

why is acura failing soo bad now? The gen 4 TL looks funky and now they are pwned the rdx.

MMike1981

maybe it takes a failure (in design) to come up with something that works...? maybe because arent these final design calls coming from North America? Id say thats part of the problem...a bunch of ambitious sketch artists....but who knows, theyd obviously have to be approved elsewhere...i remember watching the YouTube vid about the guy who did the TL and thinking....IS THIS F'ING GUY BLIND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2b_8pcleJ4 what an idiot.

thisaznboi88

iTrader: (7)

yeah I want to punch that guy in the face. My dad was suppose to get a TL but his like the ass is fugly so we got a es350 instead.

jnc2000

Have you seen the Honda videos? You can't have success without failing first...

http://dreams.honda.com/#/video_fa

MMike1981

ya need to fall, to rise

MMike1981

awesome vid btw....

Rexorg

All the more reason I'm glad I just ordered an '10 MDX. Acura certainly did not improve the '10 RDX enough to make it a luxury compact SUV.

brizey

I don't think it was ever really meant to be "luxury". More near luxury. Which it is. I think you might be disappointed with the performance of the MDX. I have driven a friend's a few times, and it is significantly off pace compared to the RDX. Slower and softer in every way.

stevel

the MDX although very nice, is incredibly boring to drive...........

SilverJ

My wife has an 07 RDX and loves it. I hate what acura has done to the RDX and I hate the TL even more. The only car that had a redesign that looks better IMO is the TSX.

MMike1981

the MDX seems soft and not athletic, at first...until i/you spend some serious time behind the wheel, sported up the dampers....the thing is right at home in twisty backroads and rides with a beautiful suppleness in the process. The noise level in the cabin is excellent and i think the luxurious feeling of the truck really undermines its quite above-average performance in that type of segment. Yes...right off the bat, the RDX announces its sportiness much more so than the MDX...but where the MDX shines is its composure over all surfaces, and basically the same lateral grip that the RDX has. The RDX is quicker, but the MDX is much more elegant in its moves.

yes, i thought within the first 1/2 hr of driving, i was like man, this thing is BORING to drive...but like every car, you gotta get on it to discover what it does...and basically the MDX is just so much more refined than the RDX that while you think its boring, its just doing all the things the RDX does not do, like soak up bumps and road imperfections, remain quiet, transmit less to the cabin, and so on....when you expect the busyness of the RDX in the MDX...it may at first seem uneventful, but after a while, the MDX is just such a better vehicle....which also makes me really pissed because Acura could without question really put the RDX in the same level of refinement, ride quality, and options, but ive said it before....i WOULD buy an RDX, without hesitation, at 41k (basically being comparable to Audi, Benz, BMW and so on)...to get all its sports car qualities, with some real luxury and options that the MDX has...that is a win win in my book, and worth more money. yea its a good deal under 38k, but theres a reason why its under 38k.

corduroygt

Actually, my idea of the V6 would be the Accord hybrid V6, which had kickass power combined with the economy of a 4 cylinder. I'd pay a $3k premium for that motor, but nobody bought it and honda killed it. That motor should have debuted on an Acura, not an accord where the base model is $20k.

brizey

Still, though, the RDX is noticeably better in every measurable performance category. The RDX is not perfect--an adjustable suspension would be sweet. But it runs circles around the MDX performance-wise. I would only buy the MDX if I needed the larger cargo area.

My method of selecting this car was:

How many people in the family? 2 adults and 1 kid and 1 coming soon = no need for three rows

Need gigantic cargo area all the time? No = small/medium sized vehicle

Kids is car seats? Yes = crossover instead of wagon or sedan

Like to drive? Yes = performance crossover vs minivan or truck-SUV

Like electronic toys = near lux vs. basic models

At that point, in ,there were two options--the RDX and the X3. The X3 is not Japanese and it is way more expensive. So I got the RDX. At this point there are other options. Most of them fail for not being Japanese (sorry, but there is no credible evidence that the European branded cars are not inferior in terms of quality) and way more expensive for things I just don't care about. I would still buy the RDX, even with the schnoz.

When my kids are out of car seats I will be back in a sedan. Maybe a CPO M50 in about five years?

MMike1981

im waiting to see the numbers for the 2010 MDX...but in my personal experience, the 2009 MDX was and still is (pending the 2010) Acuras best overall product, imo EVER (aside from the NSX's achievements)

vrflyer

You couldn't be more correct. If you live in AZ, CA or TX or any other state where you'll never see snow fall then 2WD(or RWD) is sufficient.

stevel

I'm surprised at people on here seeming to think sh-awd is only beneficial in snow....... you guys must not realize the handling enhancements the system gives the car.... or you don't care about handling I guess......................

wrestrepo

Is not only beneficial in snow, but is probably not worth the extra $$ for people that don't ever see snow....the gain in performance/handling is not that noticeable or relevant to most average people.

cwepruk

A RWD setup or a much more rear biased setup would be better for handling anyways. The RDX still understeers quite a bit.

SinCity

I usually like "facelifts" but this one is just improperly executed.

Carbon2008RDX

I totally agree SH-AWD makes dry pavement handling awesome as well! This past weekend I took an 80 mile road trip and really pushed the RDX in some twistes, etc. It just blows my mind. It handles and feels so awesome; it doesn't even feel like a small SUV. I swear I'm behind the wheel of a sports sedan. But when winter comes around, role reversal, great in the snow! Gotta love it.

corduroygt

Just get on a highway onramp and mash the gas, the way the RDX tightens its line is just like a RWD machine, it's really cool.
Also, AWD helps in the rain and it rains in California and Arizona too.

CSpaR

Just drove my father's newish Toyota Camary for a week while visiting NJ. Really not liking it. Got back last night and back into my RDX today. WOW what a difference. I have a new appreciation for my ride.

meagain

Anyone see one yet? One of the dealers around me has a few AWD version just in today. I'll go look at them tomorrow. I'm hopeing there's no delay in the FWD version as that'll give me clunker cash.

I can't even fathom if the ride will be a bit smoother? I'm hopeing something changed because the last time I drove it, it was soooo rough.

pjacobson958

SteveL: I echo your comments about Audis vs. Acuras. Replaced my '00 S4 with an '08 RL. Now shopping for a 2010 RDX to replace my '01 allroad, which has required $10,000+ in repairs/replacements in the past year.

stevel

two early bi-turbos? yeah, that's a nightmare....

I think the '01 Allroad is was the absolute worst car audi has built in the last 15 years or so....... yet many people love them for some reason...

assuming the 2010 rdx handles like the '08, it will be much more nimble than your allroad.... unless you by chance had the h-sport sway bars installed...... then it's a tougher call.

Type34

Quick note on the MDX versus RDX front:

Don't buy an MDX for performance...if you want performance, stick with your RDX. If you're a DIY'er and make frequent Home Depot runs, you have kids and want a 3rd row, or just want a bigger vehicle, then the V6 power of the MDX will suffice.

But if you're expecting sport sedan handling and sub-7 0-60 sprints, keep your RDX.

meagain

The 2010 RDX in person is SO much better than the 2009 IMO. The beak actually works. It's the only one where I actually LIKE the beak.

goturcode

i think the rdx wheel base is lacking something its stance is just kinda whimpy

MMike1981

the wheels are too pushed in....adding some spacers actually make the stock rims quite nice...