Acura RDX

music287

I was hot on the upcoming RSX, the Mazda Cx-7 and the Ford Edge/Lincoln MKX. But now, Chrysler is offering a $3500 rebate on the Pacifica. That puts this six cylinder, seven passenger, regular gas engine, available xenon headlights in the running again, especially since the thing is epa 24 mpg in awd trim and has an excellent safety rating.

BTW, the Edge and MKX won't offer hid xenon headlights. This makes it a non-starter for us since we live in "deer" country!

What am I missing here? A larger suv for less money that uses regular gas and gets similar mileage! Seems like the Pacifica is back in the running for us even with that tiny rear seat!

Jay

fsmmcsi

What about the Ford Explorer / Mercury Mountaineer, which achieve EPA ratings of 15 city and 21 highway with the V8 RWD and only need regular? Acura and Mazda both goofed by installing turbo-charged 4s, when they should have installed 3.5 V6 engines which run on regular, or better yet, Diesel engines.

rdxsteve

I recommend starting at the Acura web site: http://www.acura.com/

Also try http://rdx.acurazine.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=2

rdxsteve

kyfdx- thanks, that explains the high X5 to X3 ratio I see on the road

varmint

Try this one for more information.

http://hondanews.com/catID3090?view=t&page=1

varmint

Neither of those trucks will perform like the RDX or CX-7 once you get out of first gear. And those are figures for the 2WD models. Obviously, AWD is going to deduct from fuel efficiency.

I mean, heck, I can show you a CR-V with a four banger that'll get 28 mpg from the EPA. It'll probably run 0-60 as fast as those Fords, too.

If you want fuel economy, stay away from vehicles designed to be sporty.

happyharry

Try this one for more RDX features and details:

http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/pw/07rdx.htm

It mentioned the starting price could be around cdn$45000, if that is true it could be discouraging to some potential buyers as that will be around $10,000 more than the Mazda CX7, can we justify that much price difference? :confuse:

ateixeira

Are you serious? The Pacifica and Explorer as alternatives to an RDX?

They're totally different classes of vehicles. Pacifica is a people mover, more van than anything. Explorer is a full-frame SUV. RDX is sporty, it would run circles around both.

That's like comparing a Stratus and a Five Hundred to an Acura TSX.

Tahoe, too. That's like...I can't even think of two vehicles different enough to make a simile!

Think Sport Compact Crossover. Mazda CX7. BMW X3. Forester XT. Saturn Vue Redline. Mileage is about par for the class, and the RDX is unique enough to stand out in that crowd.

-juice

8motor8pheen8

Hey man Thanks a bunch Acura did a great job on this one but what i like the most about the new acuras is the leather they switched to is so comfortable yet strong and the interior is phenomenal. ILL TAKE ONE!

P.S. Thanks for the leads i added a bunch of great photos to my page about this vehicle.

bodble2

"...$10,000 more than the Mazda CX7, can we justify that much price difference?"

I think so. From what I've seen so far, the Mazda is very econo-grade.

toast

the Mazda is very econo-grade

This is well stated. I drove the CX-7 yesterday and thought that it had a very cheap feel to it. If Acura's attention to interior detail keeps pace with that of the TL, I would easily pay $10K more. I also found the visibility to be lacking with the huge side pillars.

My hope is the RDX has a more insulation and provides for a quiet cabin. However a 4 cylinder engine is likely to have more noise than a V6. The best deal may come from a 2006 MDX closeout.

bodble2

"The best deal may come from a 2006 MDX closeout."

You are right. Up here in British Columbia, Acura is selling the MDX with the Tech Package at the price of a regular MDX.

breld

the Mazda is very econo-grade

This is well stated. I drove the CX-7 yesterday and thought that it had a very cheap feel to it. If Acura's attention to interior detail keeps pace with that of the TL, I would easily pay $10K more. I also found the visibility to be lacking with the huge side pillars.

I looked at the CX-7 recently and also would agree with these statements. If you're not looking for leather and other goodies, a sport model will compete very well with the CR-Vs and Rav4's, but once you load it up, it's right around $30k. If the mags are right on their estimates, and the RDX comes in around $32k base, it'd be tough to justify $1-2k savings on the Mazda.

breld

The X3 is receiving some nice updates for 2007, just in time to compete a little better with the brand-new RDX. Supposedly improved interior, new 3.0 engine (from the 3 and 5-series) with 260hp and a six speed auto, along with some minor styling updates.

It's still a little too cute-ute for my tastes (as the RDX may be too), but the X3 is getting better year after year.

varmint

I took a very close look at the CX-7 at the NY auto show. I even brought a tape measure with me to compare the RDX, CX-7, and X3. (What's with the letter X in all these names?)

Anyway... I didn't find the materials in the CX-7 to be all that bad. No, they're not on the same level as the RDX, but the interior has a good dose of style to make up for it. Many buyers shop with only their eyes.

Where I think the Mazda falls short is in the details of the equipment list. Yes, you can check the box for navigation, but Mazda's NAV doesn't compete with Acura's. You can check the box for a stereo upgrade, but it won't sound as good as Acura's ELS system. The CX-7 has AWD, but it's a 50/50 reactive design, while the RDX has SH-AWD.

I think Mazda created a very competent vehicle, but it's not in the same class despite the many ways where the stats match up.

rsholland

Also, the severely raked windshield of the CX7 has forced Mazda to use a long 108" or so wheelbase, without any interior space gains that you would associate a LWB vehicle to have. The windshield rake simply pushes the seats rearward.

Bob

aviboy97

Is there any pricing info out yet for the RDX?

varmint

True. 108" is actually two inches longer than the MDX and Pilot. I think if they had taken an approach like Honda did with the Civic (push the cowl forward to achieve that rake), they could have retained a significant advantage in interior capacity. But they had limits on what they could do with the platform. Given their intended demographic they chose style over functionality.

varmint

Nothing solid. $30-37K is the only estimate that makes sense.

aviboy97

I would not say that the Mazda CX-7 is totally "cheap". There is a decent amount of plastic's used, however, in a non-lux brand, that is quite common. Build quality is pretty good as well. For what the CX-7 costs, you sure get a lot for your money.

I would expect the RDX to be more money, and more refined with the lux label it carries. I could see them being cross shopped, but, you would have to keep in mind one is luxury, one is not.

I see the RDX more aimed towards the BMW X3, possibly the Lexus RX, Infiniti FX

The CX-7 is more along the lines of the Murano, $5000 less then Murano fully loaded, Forester XT, RAV4 V6.

A fully loaded CX-7 AWD Grand Touring w/ tech package $32,565. If RDX starts at $32,000, I would imagine fully loaded would be $38,000-$40,000.

callmerayz

I ordered a RDX (white/tan no tech) around $?32,000 MSRP last month, and I can hardly wait. From the information on the web, and my dealer the release date is still set for 27 July on the East coast. Seems people further away from Ohio will have to wait until about 10 August. Sorry.
Does anyone out there have information different than this?

ateixeira

Remember, the CX7's price came in lower than expected. They're selling near MSRP right now.

I love the exterior, the interior is .... blah. Very bland given the promise made by the gorgeous exterior. I actually like the black stripe in the seat, but the dash is simple to the point of being dull.

Exterior: CX7 by a mile.

Interior: RDX by a mile (if they can get it so that it doesn't stratch so easily like the pre-production model did).

-juice

mel247mom

I E-mailed a dealership in New England about a hour ago an asked about RDX'S arrival, have not heard back as of yet.Keep you posted

mel247mom

Mass is scheduled for delivery on the 27th of July. Just spoke with a salesperson in Seekonk and he said all MA dealership are scheduled for a test drive on the 17th in Boston.He will get back to me w/more specs on car after there test drive.

orbitwhite

I never had a navigation system on my car before. For the Acura tech package, does it have a monthly subscription fee? My RDX brochure has footnotes that only the real time traffic will require a monthly subscription fee. Does anyone have experience with other Acura tech packages?

varmint

The Tech package is something new for Acura. The RDX is the first vehicle to offer it. It includes a stereo upgrade, the NAV unit, and a few other technology-oriented features.

That said, only the Real Time Traffic has required subscription in the past. The NAV unit operates independently of any subscription.

ateixeira

That's the beauty of GPS, you have to buy maps and map updates (if you choose to), but the service is totally free!

Pretty rare these days...

-juice

bodble2

Acura offers a Tech Package for the current MDX in Canada. Not sure if it's the same in the States.

varmint

I think the Technology package for the RDX has more widgets and gee whiz electronics involved. It includes the stereo upgrade, NAV, rearview camera, etc. All the upgrades are electronic in nature.

Here in the US, Acura offers two trim levels for the MDX: Premium (base) and Touring.

The Touring model includes stuff like rain-sensing wipers, key-linked memory seats, upgraded rims, roof rack, etc. NAV or an RES is yet another addition on top of the Touring stuff. It's less of an electronics package and more of a general upgrade with a balance of luxury, technology, and functional features.

Which does the Tech package in Canada resemble?

ateixeira

$32,995.

EPA is 19/23.

-juice

ateixeira

Ouch, $36,495.

Premium stereo, NAV with voice recognition plus traffic data, rear view camera, and a phone interface.

You can get an '06 MDX for those prices.

-juice

2skipowder

From Hondanews.com

Acura Announces Pricing for All-New Turbocharged 2007 RDX
New SUV Delivers a New Level of Performance, Handling and Technology to the Luxury Sport Utility Vehicle Market
Downloads

TORRANCE, Calif. 07/12/2006 --

Acura today announced pricing of the all-new 2007 RDX 5-passenger luxury SUV. Making its debut at Acura dealerships on August 10, the 2007 RDX will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $32,995. The performance oriented RDX is poised to bring a new level of driving excitement and enjoyment to consumers seeking sports sedan performance in the growing entry premium SUV segment.

Featuring Acura's first-ever turbocharged and intercooled engine coupled with patented Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD)(TM) , the RDX blends the best in responsiveness, control and efficiency. The RDX is equipped with a 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve in-line four cylinder engine with i-VTEC valve control that produces 240 horsepower. By adding an innovative variable flow turbocharger, an exceptionally broad powerband with virtually no turbo lag is produced while providing an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/23 miles per gallon.

"The 2007 RDX illustrates Acura's passion for developing vehicles that can deliver the ultimate in performance, technology, safety and fuel efficiency," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president sales. "For drivers that want the utility of an SUV but demand a sporty driving experience, the RDX truly delivers."

In addition to an exhilarating driving experience, the RDX offers a comprehensive list of standard electronic and convenience features that serve to greatly enhance the ownership experience. The RDX is equipped with a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a 360-watt, 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with a multi-format 6-disc changer, XM(R) Satellite Radio and a convenient MP3/auxiliary input jack for connecting popular portable audio devices such as an iPod(R).

The RDX's inherent performance and technology compliments its state of the art safety features. An Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure helps protect passengers by distributing collision loads through the body structure, leaving the passenger cabin more intact for improved occupant protection while also making the RDX more compatible with smaller vehicles in the event of a vehicle-to-vehicle frontal collision. Finally, a specially engineered hood and other components help reduce the chances of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision with the vehicle. Inside the RDX, a full complement of passive safety features are found, such as the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, side airbags for the driver and front passenger and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants.

While the RDX is generously equipped right from the start, it is also available with an optional Technology Package. Priced at $36,495, the RDX with Technology Package enhances the driving experience by adding a 10-speaker, 410-watt, Acura/ELS Surround(R) Premium Sound System designed by legendary recording engineer Elliot Scheiner to create an unmatched listening experience. In addition, the Technology Package also includes several visual and audio communications features such as the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) and rearview camera, the HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface, and the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic.

The destination and handling charge for all 2007 Acura vehicles is $615. For additional information about the new RDX and other Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries and high resolution images of the RDX and other Acura vehicles, please visit www.acuranews.com.

bodble2

"You can get an '06 MDX for those prices."

But would you?

ateixeira

Right now? Yes.

I have 2.3 kids (the .3 is a dog). The smaller one isn't any cheaper and doesn't use any less fuel, really. So yes, I'd opt for the bigger MDX if I were to choose between the two right now.

And the thing is I actually prefer small cars. But they should carry a price advantage and better fuel economy, this doesn't.

The price just came in a couple of grand higher than I expected. I don't think my prices include freight, either, so $34k for starters is higher than anyone predicted.

Plus the EPA highway mileage dropped a tad.

-juice

bodble2

"But they should carry a price advantage and better fuel economy, this doesn't."

IMO, not necessarily. I like smaller vehicles too, and precisely for that reason I would not get the very wide and bulky MDX, which is really no more than a AWD Odyssey, even if it had the same price as the RDX. Did I mention the MDX is wide? :P

wwest

Plus the front wheel drive based and/or front torque biased AWD MDX can develop quickly into a very hazardous vehicle if you should encounter anything resembling adverse road conditions.

kyfdx

Ouch..

bodble2

You guys actually have it good in the States. If Acura were to price it in Canada according to the current exchange rate, it would translate into a Canadian price of about $37,700. At that price, most buyers in Canada would step on their mothers to get one. But my dealer has told me they expect prices in Canada to start at about $45K CAD.

proe

Cars are always more expensive in Canada when you compare with equally equipped vehicles in States :confuse:
I don't quite understand why. Could Canada has double taxes and currency exchange rate be the reasons?

ateixeira

You must park in the city a lot.

I guess this ends up being like the A3 - well equipped, compact, but also expensive.

All I have to say is it had better perform extremely well.

-juice

danxp

does bluetooth come standard or do you have to pay $4k more just to get it?

i would get the rdx w/bluetooth for the $33k but never for $37k.

uvawahoo

I know we all have been spoiled by Acura in the past. But, we must not get confused, and start calling their prices high, when in fact they are far less than their competitors. A similarly priced BMW X3 would go for $42,000(and would not have nearly the technological advancements that this car has). Just think of it this way, the STARTING price of a BMW X3, is the FINAL price of an Acura RDX WITH the Tech Package = approximately $36,000.

So HOW CAN WE COMPLAIN? What other SUV out there will provide all those goodies for $36K. Maybe the new Mazda CX-7, but even that is floating in the early 30's, and you are getting a Mazda. Last time I checked, their quality on the JD Power and associates was lower than Ford.

It looks like Acura is getting smart. They know they have a market, and are starting to charge a little more. Expect the future TL, TSX, RL to all use this same price model. Base Model (which happens to be really good on it's own) + a Tech package (which makes the car exceptional). Even then, the car's final MSRP is the base MSRP of it's competitors w/out options.

uvawahoo

Though the '06 MDX may be worth it now, remember, in one year, the '07 MDX will be here, and then what are you going to do? That will around $45k, and this SUV is around $36K. Will the $9k difference be worth it then?

The RDX is priced reasonably, and in time we will all see that. For now, get the '06 MDX if you please, but remember, depreciation on that car is going to fly high once the new model comes out!

rcizme

I was advised on 7/12 that the release date for the RDX has been pushed back a week to "take care of a SMALL problem. Anyone know the nature of that problem?

ateixeira

BMW is a different animal, they include 4 years' of free service, for instance. And they've never had to compete on price anyway.

I suspect a lot of folks will cross-shop with Asian brands, hence the CX7, maybe the FX35 now that the prices are close (about $38k for starters). The RX just isn't sporty.

I do agree that the positioning will make a lot more sense once the new MDX comes out. But you have to wonder if Acura can shift prices up that much.

-juice

bodble2

Their "small problem" could be the tranny keeps falling off the car! :P

bodble2

"Cars are always more expensive in Canada when you compare with equally equipped vehicles in States"

Not always. Back when the Can/US exchange was about 65 cents, Hondas were comparatively cheaper in Canada. I think Honda, and likely other manufacturers, had to subsidize in order to make the cars affordable. But now that the exchange to up to almost 90 cents, they are not adjusting accordingly. Maybe that's only fair to even things up. But it would be interesting to see what happens if the Canadian $ remains high, or even go higher.

bodble2

98% of my driving is in the city. And compared to the States, Canadian cities tend to have smaller parking lots and tighter parking spaces. :sick:

uvawahoo

I agree that BMW has always been able to charge more, but remember, Acura tends to sell below MSRP. I know I got my TL at invoice. So, if this car sticks with that trend, the base model will be selling for at least 2k lower after the first year, and the tech package model will seel for 1k to 1500 lower. Overall, at around $35k, this car will be worthwhile.

The FX35 is a few years old now and is now coming down to the low 40 range with options. But initially, it too was quite expensive. I think with most Acura's (and Japense cars in general), wait 6months to 1 year, and the price will be right where you want it.

orbitwhite

I always thought the RDX is a great looking car with nice features. Now the price announced, my mind would have been made up IF it wasn't for the 4-cyl turbo engine. If only the RDX has a nice efficient V6 Honda makes so well, I would have piece of mind.

Does anyone think Acura will change their mind on the 4-cyl turbo? I'm afraid years from now when the RDX price drops to reasonable levels and then I buy only to find Acura will do the RDX right with a V6 engine.