The RDX, Acura’s smallest SUV doesn’t get talked about much here at The Garage. First introduced as a 2007 model and motivated by a turbocharged four, the RDX has always lived in the shadow of the larger MDX, the brand’s best-selling vehicle. It hardly helped that mainstream auto media largely ignored the RDX, which is priced just under more recognized cars like the Mercedes-Benz GLK or Infiniti EX.  Worse, many see the RDX’s size and assume it is just a plush Honda CR-V-it is not. In any case, Acura is introducing the second generation, 2013 RDX. Whether any past misconceptions of the last RDX can be dispelled remain to be seen.

The most notable change from the last generation RDX is the loss of the turbo four cylinder engine in favor of a 3.5L V-6 with an additional 33hp on tap, paired to an all-new six-speed automatic. An RDX with front-wheel drive will start at $34,320USD. The RDX will come standard with leather seats, power heated front seats, power moonroof, Pandora internet radio, and a rearview camera. All-wheel drive will cost an additional $1,400. The only option after that is the Technology Package, which adds AuraLink satellite communication, voice-recognition Navigation, a 60GB hard drive, dual-zone auto climate control, surround sound, power lift gate and bi-xenon HID headlights for $3,700 extra.

I can see Acura’s product planners thinking that a V-6 RDX was the way to go given its direct competition. I was present at the Acura stand at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit when the RDX was unveiled. There was no energy or enthusiasm from Acura for the RDX, and the audience of a few hundred auto journalists fed on that, and none of us cared either. It is that attitude that frustrates me about Acura today. In 1986 Honda took a huge gamble on creating a Japanese luxury brand named Acura during a time when no one associated Japanese cars with luxury. Honda created Acura, and three years later Toyota created Lexus, which destroyed Acura in sales.

I will reserve final judgement of the 2013 Acura RDX until I get the opportunity to drive one, but my fear is Acura continues to play it safe with cars no one feels any passion for. Stay tuned.

 

Filed under: Car Buying, Crossover, Acura, Luxury

The redesigned 2013 Acura RDX is headed to dealers this spring, and when it arrives, it will carry a base manufacturer's suggested retail price of $34,320, plus a destination fee of $885. As you may recall, the new RDX has abandoned the turbocharged four-cylinder engine of the outgoing model in favor of a V6 engine with 33 more horsepower. A new six-speed automatic transmission is part of the package as well, and buyers may opt for all-wheel drive for an additional $1,400. Acura is also offering a Technology Package that includes niceties such as AcuraLink satellite communication, navigation with voice recognition, a 60-gig hard drive, real-time weather, traffic and GPS-linked dual-zone climate control. A premium sound system, power liftgate and projector headlights are also part of the kit for $3,700.

Opting for the tech package and all-wheel drive will cost you $39,420 plus destination. Expect front-wheel drive models to yield 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway (better than the exit model's fuel economy despite the larger engine), while the RDX AWD will sacrifice just one mpg in both city and highway driving. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading 2013 Acura RDX priced from $34,320*

2013 Acura RDX priced from $34,320* originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Coupe, Hybrid, Sedan, Performance, Crossover, Acura, Honda, Luxury

The rumors have been swirling for the better part of six years and now Acura has confirmed that the next generation NSX is finally on its way.

The Detroit Auto Show will play host to three new Acura models, with the center ring occupied by a concept version of Acura's next-gen supercar. Playing second and third fiddle will be the automaker's interpretation of a compact luxury sedan, dubbed the ILX and competing in the same class as the BMW 1 Series, new Mercedes A-Class and Lexus CT200h. Power will be sent to the front wheels by either a 2.0-liter inline four or an optional hybrid drivetrain, with pricing somewhere south of $30k thanks to its Civic roots. Finally, Acura will show off a prototype version of the 2013 Acura RDX that gives current owners more of what their after, including fuel efficiency.

There aren't much in the way of hints or details in the release after the break, but we do know that the NSX will take aim at the Audi R8 with a V6 hybrid powerplant mounted amidships and sending power to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The exterior will most certainly be inspired by the concept playing beside actor Robert Downey Jr. in the third Ironman installment and pricing won't be anywhere near that of the Lexus LFA - Honda wants this to be obtainable, and if C/D is to be believed, it's already been approved for 2013 production.

Continue reading Acura NSX concept, ILX sedan, 2013 RDX coming to Detroit

Acura NSX concept, ILX sedan, 2013 RDX coming to Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Minivan/Van, Truck, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Honda

Honda seems to believe that America's car-buying slump is coming to a close. According to Automotive News, the automaker has announced that it will spend $84 million to grow engine and light truck production at its Lincoln, Alabama assembly plant. The money will be used to help create an additional 100 jobs and should see the facility increase its total output from 300,000 units per year to 340,000 in anticipation of a sales recovery in the States. Automotive News suggests that may be a smart move. Consumer demand for new cars and trucks has grown by around 10 percent through October of this year.

Honda expects that demand to translate into greater Odyssey, Pilot and Ridgeline sales. Each of those models is produced at the Alabama facility, though the Acura RDX may join that mix as part of the new investment.

The Japanese automaker has also said that it will resume its normal production schedule at its North American facilities as its supply line continues to recover from the impact of flooding in Thailand.

Honda to boost vehicle and engine production in Alabama originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Minivan/Van, Truck, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Honda

Honda seems to believe that America's car-buying slump is coming to a close. According to Automotive News, the automaker has announced that it will spend $84 million to grow engine and light truck production at its Lincoln, Alabama assembly plant. The money will be used to help create an additional 100 jobs and should see the facility increase its total output from 300,000 units per year to 340,000 in anticipation of a sales recovery in the States. Automotive News suggests that may be a smart move. Consumer demand for new cars and trucks has grown by around 10 percent through October of this year.

Honda expects that demand to translate into greater Odyssey, Pilot and Ridgeline sales. Each of those models is produced at the Alabama facility, though the Acura RDX may join that mix as part of the new investment.

The Japanese automaker has also said that it will resume its normal production schedule at its North American facilities as its supply line continues to recover from the impact of flooding in Thailand.

Honda to boost vehicle and engine production in Alabama originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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