Looking at purchasing a CUV with the new RDX being one. One thing that has stuck out to me is that the 2nd generation RDX has "no?" rear bumper since it sits so flushed flat with the rear trunk/hatch. I can imagine a simple accident or inattentiveness can cause quite a large repair bill with there being no rear bumper sticking out to protect the back of the RDX like other cars? Even the new CRV has a actual rear bumper but the one on the RDXs is so flushed with the rear hatch.

 

bumpers are plastic.
there's no way, a plastic bumper will help "protect" from a collision.

underneath the "flat" bumper is a 5mph reinforcement bar, but that only aides with collisions 5mph and slower.

I understand your concern tho, as the hatch will get damaged in a rear end collision.

 

Yea, the lack of an obvious rear bumper struck me too. Very stylish, but it seemed vulnerable.

But I think you should focus on how they all drive. That's what finally sold me on the RDX. Even though it's lacking in a few features I would have liked, on winding roads, it's so much like driving a sport sedan that's it's actually fun. That can't be said for some of its competitors.

And if you DO get hit from the rear (vs. backing into something) it will most likely be "their" fault, and covered by insurance.

 

The flush rear bumper is my favorite styling element of the whole car.

 

I have insurance to worry about the cost of repairing any part of the car should I be in a collision that would be fast enough to damage the rear bumper to that point.

 

I was concerned also but read (sorry can't remember where) that the lower part of the hatch is the same plastic material with flex paint as the bumper/rear valance (e.g. it has some ability to deform slightly and spring back). I believe the joint with the top half of the hatch is under the chrome trim strip. Several advantages to this - it is cheaper/easier to replace if it does get seriously damaged, and it won't rust. If you look at the drain holes at the bottom or the big access hole behind the license plate, you can see it is plastic.

 

I live in a area where the street parking is a must and having a clean, scratch free bumper is next to impossible. I have also seen enough idiots in small and large cars who can't park if their life depended on it. The first things as a result of these drivers are scratched or dented bumpers. Getting a bumper repainted for a few hundred dollars every few years is acceptable to me but having damage to the hatch/trunk because there isn't enough protection for it and costing a few grand is not acceptable.

 

Just to close the loop the plastic bottom panel of the tailgate is termed garnish assy tailgate lower and comes painted. It is part number 74890-TX4-A01Z? where ? designates the color. The discount OEM places sell it for around $205. Install would be extra. Also, the attachment points are under the chrome strip which is included in the $205 price along with all the other needed mounting items.

 

Maybe getting a nice trailer hitch might help?

 

Didn't know that part was replaceable and comes painted too! Very resonable at $200+ painted.

Definitely put this car back on the top of my list. Thanks!

 

Glad to help. If you decide to buy the RDX you will love it. Good luck on your decision.