I'm seriously considering the 2016 RDX, and had two questions for those who have picked one up already:


(1) How quiet is the car? I had read somewhere that earlier models used active noise cancellation to quiet the interior, but am interested in how folks view the 2016 model compared to other cars they have owned.


(2) How difficult to use is the ELS interface (i.e., the two screen system)? It's been criticized as implemented in other Honda-family cars, but I'd be interested in hearing whether it's been improved for 2016 or as implemented in the RDX.


Many thanks in advance.

 

It's not as quiet as our 15 MDX Adv and about as quiet as the 2001 Lexus RX300 it replaced.

As far as the audio system, I haven't had it long enough to evaluate it though it is rather complex. My XM radio drops out frequently and does not appear to be weather related. I'll have to bring it in for that to be checked.

 

Had mine two weeks and we think it is very quite and the tranny is so smoooooth! No issues with audio and actually No complaints at all. We continue to be impressed

 

I believe "Alex on Autos" test on the RDX makes reference on the noise level. Perhaps worth looking at, Good luck,
Sumoto

 

I agree with puma. Road noise is pretty minimal. Tranny is butter. My wife has mastered the dual screens and loves it. I get shit about my 2014 navi. I personally love the touch screen features because it cleaned up the dash of clutter. Clean and simple. It's usually friendly as well. Really the only downside is not being able to input an address while driving but you can do it via voice command. I can live with that. Everything else I perfect for us.

Good luck on your search. Test drive all your options and you'll know which choice to make.

 

I have 1,000 miles on my 16 & love it. It is quiet enough for me, but if this is high on your priority list you could probably find a quieter car.
As far as the dual screen system goes- I really don't understand all the criticism. It takes a little time learn but that goes with anything new and different. But now that I have been using it I really like it. It allows for tons of audio presets, which can be completely different depending which key fob you are using. I now think of the system as a one of my favorite things about the car.

 

The 2016 is relatively quiet but I usually have music or radio on so it doesn't bother me much. It does seem slightly quieter on the 2016 MDX, which I had it as a loaner for 2 weeks before getting the RDX. I was told by the sales person that 2016 upgraded the sound-deadening materials and is doing a better job before. Didn't do a back-to-back 2015 test drive so can't really tell.

I am still getting used to the dual screen. While it's not the best design, it's something I can live with.

 

I really like the dual screen. I find it easy to use.

 

All - Many thanks for the replies. Very helpful information. Now that Honda has announced the new Accord with CarPlay, I'm hoping Acura has plans to retrofit that into existing head-units, but that may be a stretch.

 

All is good, nice and quiet, radio,nav, and interface all work well for us. Very nice car / suv.

 

Being well integrated into the Apple eco system, I do find the (future) CarPlay feature appealing, but I must say I am very satisfied with present Siri Eyes free feature.