97AcuraCL

DETROIT 01/09/2006 -- The highly anticipated Acura RDX Prototype SUV debuted today at the North American International Auto Show. Combining sport utility with sports sedan handling and performance, RDX features an innovative 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), and is designed to redefine the entry premium SUV segment. This near-production prototype provides an advance preview of the all-new RDX that will go on sale this summer.

"The RDX Prototype represents the forward thinking that will be seen in the next generation of Acura light trucks," said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. "It is loaded with leading edge technology and it exemplifies what we call intelligent performance: a sporty, luxurious and functional SUV that has outstanding performance yet is also fuel efficient."

RDX features an all-new 2.3-liter i-VTEC(R) four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 240 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque. This is the first application of forced induction technology in Acura history. The revolutionary i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a variable flow turbocharger, which is exclusive to the RDX, and provides dramatic performance benefits while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. To complement the all-aluminum high-performance engine, the RDX utilizes Acura's steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to manually operate the 5-speed sequential SportShift(TM) automatic transmission.

Acura's Super Handling-AWD system is tuned specifically for the new RDX platform. SH-AWD's sophisticated electronic controls automatically distribute torque fore and aft, as well as splitting the rear torque left to right. The result is dramatically enhanced handling, traction and stability during sporty driving as well as in inclement weather. A sophisticated chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension complement the SH-AWD. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) combines with large disc brakes and ABS to enhance control.

The RDX is built on an all-new global light truck platform. Reflecting Acura's commitment to safety through innovation, the RDX is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure and additional state-of-the-art safety features. The ACE structure helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area. The system also helps to provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants while at the same time increasing compatibility with other vehicles in a frontal collision. Front, side and side curtain airbags, in addition to rollover sensors add an extra measure of safety.

The chiseled exterior styling combines with a generous greenhouse to provide excellent visibility for driving in city traffic or on twisty mountain roads. RDX employs a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, sporty wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to an aggressive Acura signature five-sided grill. Custom 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX Prototype an aggressive stance. Dual exhaust tips, HID headlights, and a rear spoiler add to the sporty appearance of the vehicle.

Inside, the RDX combines richly appointed materials with a sporty, driver-oriented cockpit. The center console features an innovative storage system, which allows for hidden and lockable storage of a briefcase or laptop computer. The prototype's interior features an assortment of leading-edge technologies, such as the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM), AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system with real time traffic and HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface. A premium Acura/ELS(TM) DVD-Audio system is tuned to deliver rich surround sound to the cabin.

The RDX offers seating for five and a versatile rear cargo hatch allows for easy load-in and storage. The second row seats split and fold flat into the floor, providing ample cargo space for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.

The RDX will be assembled at Honda of America Manufacturing in Marysville, Ohio and will go on-sale in the summer of 2006. Pricing has not been determined.

ac00lra

Very clean and elegant design. And did that really say 19-inch wheels? I wonder if that will make it to the final production version. I can't wait to test drive the first Acura turbo production version. Another thing I don't see mention is whether the liftgate is powered or not. :-) Just a wish.

Benush

As I look at the great photos I see that the Acura symbol in the front is isolated in it's own little tunnel. Could that mean that that is where they will house the radar unit for braking and cruise control operations ala the 2006 RL tech package upgrade?

dipkat

18" is standard and 19" is optional. Expect to pay a premium of $1500 for the upgrade to 19"

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...ticleId=108837

Sclass88

I'm in LOVE with the interior. The exterior will eventually grow on me but I LOVE LOVE LOVE the interior. Good work Acura!

Colin

I like the way the top grill opening feeds air to the intercooler. The two lower grill openings must be for radiator etc. Very slick and no need for a hood scoop.

mg7726

you're not the only one. i hope honda prices this car correctly.

blnemec

Re: The stereo "Tune / Folder" button - does 'folder' confirm that a hard drive is installed for uploading music? If so, does anyone know the manufacturer site to search to learn more about these hard drive stereos?

Also, there is a photo on the web with an Acura Exec. standing next to the RDX & the RDX looks incredibly small. Any specs on head & leg room?

observer

I hope it's not just me, but does the gear stick seem a bit too phallic?!

Colin

Obviously they're trying to appeal to women........

He: "I know you don't usually like SUVs......"
She: "I don't know, for some reason I like this one....."

SilverStoneTTL

Acura makes the nicest interiors

Sclass88

As I keep looking at the interior, I keep trying to compare it to another car and I think I might have found it...

Does anyone else notice that the upper portion of the dash looks somewhat like the new Infiniti M and the shifter kind of look like the M's as well?? Maybe its just me...

phile

The first thing that came to my mind was how the center console seems to be bi-sected by the dashboard, which recalls the Land Rover Range Rover's interior.

97AcuraCL

god this pic makes my penor do dirrty things...

97AcuraCL

starting at <= 29,999 and i'm sold.

vicpai

.....parts of that dash do look very "Infiniti-ish".....that similarity was going thru my mind as well, but I just couldn't put a finger to it.

kbecker

Comparing the two interior photos, I notice something missing from the Acura RDX - where's the emergency brake? Definitely no handle between the front seats, and I didn't see a foot-operated one in the other pics...anybody see it?

ac00lra

Somehow I doubt it will be less than 30 large. The TSX with Nav is already at 29+. I think the RDX will come with 1 config (like RL). My guess is that it will be just a little less than the TL. And I'm sure we will see lots of markups during the first 3-6 month by those greedy dealers.

finishline

Hmm, you're right, def. no hand brake. There must be a floor one (yuck) that we can't see then?

patuww

Actually I hope this console is not set in stone. I think it looks very cheap. Look at this pic...



This stuff looks like left over parts from a late 90's Acura. Look at say the TSX's dash and you will see what I mean.

AcuraRLBlue

The front overhang may be a bit large-just like the RL's.

03CoupeV6

Am I missing something? What's with the pictures of the first gen Legend?

hondamore

I believe that the '86 Legend "unveiling" was part of a celebration of Acura's 20th anniversary.

97AcuraCL

bump

neuronbob

Me like. I, too, hope that Acura prices this appropriately. If they do, there may be two Acuras and a Honda in my garage.

Alin10123

I think the front end looks pretty nice. The rear looks like a minivan though. If they want to market this as a sporty SUV, i'd change that pretty quick. I agree with PATTUWW that the interior looks kind of cheap. I'm not sure if it's just the pics of whatnot. But from the pics the interior looks kind of plasticlike if you know what i'm saying. Looks like there's a lot of plastic in the interior. They should at least use the vinyl or even a few leather trimmed peices and it would really finish it off. Then maybe a few carbon fiber like peices to finish off the interior trim as well just like the new TL has.

tktommy

I looked over the RDX at the turntable at the Chicago Auto Show. First I was surprised how small it was, I was expecting something around the size of the Murano (I owned one for 3 years). The interior did look rather cheap, not what I expected. It may be that this being a prototype there will be some changes to the production model. Time will tell. Regardless, I think this will sell very well. I'm anxious to see what the MDX will look like.

dukmahsik

my significant other is looking for a new car and this small suv fits the bill very nicely

mountsnow

Emergency brake is small pedal to left of service brake pedel--works by depressing it. Releases by depressing it again.

sasair

dang, talk about a BUMP!