2012 Acura RDX Preview

Acura RDX's was released in the busy "cute-ute" market: small, toy-like SUVs made ​​for looking chic than for off-roading. To face off against the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the 2012 Acura RDX is equipped with many of the technology, luxurious appearance, and lots of power from Acura's first turbocharged engine.

With 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 2.3-liter engine, the RDX scoots pretty good, but it brings back to the V-6 powered competitors. The RDX is now available in a front-wheel-drive model, which saves weight, improves fuel economy and lowers the price sticker - at the expense of poor weather stability. For city dwellers the Acura RDX objectives, but this is a worthy trade-off.

The 2012 Acura RDX offers an attractive package inside and out with a good driving dynamics, and a large number of available positions: an available Technology Package adds a navigation system, traffic and weather updates, voice recognition, rearview camera, a 10-speaker surround sound system , and even restaurant reviews, perfect for young professionals who might consider the RDX.

Body style: SUV

Engine: 2.3-liter, turbocharged inline-4

Transmission: five-speed automatic

Models: RDX, RDX SH-AWD, RDX with Technology Package, RDX SH-AWD with Technology Package

The front-drive-only model lowers the Acura RDX's base price by about $2000. A styling refresh last year also brought the front end in line with Acura's "Power Plenum" styling. New brakes and standard Bluetooth are also included.

The 2012 RDX shares Acura's controversial grille. The crossover's random bulges and jelly-bean body might suit some, but better-looking cute-utes in this class aren't difficult to find.

The 2012 Acura RDX's dashboard is well-trimmed, albeit laden with buttons that can be confusing to navigate. An optional Technology Package adds navigation with real time traffic and weather updates, as well as a 10-speaker surround sound system and a backup camera.

The RDX's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive provides balanced handling in all conditions, with the ability to transfer power individually to any wheel. This Acura's biggest weakness is its five-speed automatic transmission, as its competitors all carry at least six-speeds. Likewise, the turbocharged four-cylinder's 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of output is low for the class. The new brakes are less grabby than before and easier to modulate, while the multi-link rear suspension helps the Acura RDX handle in a sportier manner than expected for a crossover of any size.

The RDX features six airbags total: two in front, two front side airbags, and two full-length curtain airbags. Active front head restraints help prevent whiplash, and traction control works in conjunction with the SH-AWD system to keep the car in control.

RDX front-wheel drive: 19/24 mpg city/highway

RDX with SH-AWD : 17/22 mpg city/highway