It was about time for the RDX to get an update, and we are finally getting a refreshed 2023 Acura RDX. The very popular SUV is getting a bit outdated, so the manufacturer decided to bless it with all new technology and some nice restyle. The extent of this restyle is not certain as of yet, but we don’t have the feeling it will be something too drastic. Probably we will be getting some new colors, new materials, as well as the latest in technology and safety.
The RDX is competing in the midsize category, which has some fierce competition. And Acura is not well-known for making super luxurious vehicles. In their own words, they are chasing performance instead of looks. So it is not competing against the likes of Mercedes or BMW. Nevertheless, the RDX was and still is a very popular SUV for families especially. Having 3 rows of seats is just another check-in in the pros column.
We all know that Acura isn’t known for building hybrid SUVs, so there is a very slim chance that RDX gets a hybrid powertrain. However, starting with the 2024 model year, we might be getting an all-electric version of the well-known SUV.
So, what type of changes are coming with the new 2023 Acura RDX?
What’s Updated Inside?
As mentioned above, Acura is not known for luxuriously styled interiors and flashy cabins. They like to put all the things needed and place them properly in order to save space. This allows for some extra wiggle room. In 3-row, there is obviously enough room for 5 people to sit comfortably with extra legroom. There are extra storage compartments under the 2 back rows. If they are folded, we get an extra 95 cubic feet of space. This is something you don’t often see in an SUV and a sight that is most welcome. Having the ability to put an extra seat row in the back is very appealing to large families.
Otherwise, you get an extra-large trunk, and who honestly doesn’t like that. Of course, everyday life is the focus of the Acura designers, so nothing out of the ordinary. We have some chrome accents along with the instrument panel, which gives the feeling of the upper class, but not too much honestly. You can choose fabric, suede, and leather for your seat material. Talking about seats, they have some extra cushioning to make you feel comfortable. It will be interesting to see whether they are heated and ventilated, which would be amazing.
As we can see, there is a central infotainment system as expected. It is a 12.3-inch touchscreen that controls everything connected to the battery. There is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi hotspot right in the cabin. We can expect Acura to put their own safety system to help drivers in difficult situations. Softwares like these are scientifically proven to save lives in a clutch.
Is Acura Coming Out with a New RDX?
On the outside, there are some bigger changes coming up. First of all, we get a wider and longer 2023 Acura RDX. This might be done in order to improve stability, control, and overall driving feel. It is 2.8 inches wider and 2.2 inches longer. This doesn’t look like a big change, but those few inches added help a lot with the driving aspect. It translates really well to the steering control especially.
The new RDX also looks a bit taller, 0.6 inches taller to be exact. The overall design is somewhat similar. Some more curves were added to improve aerodynamics and ergonomics. This in turn improves wind drag resistance and greatly helps with fuel economy. Something we like to see improved in any vehicle regardless of its use.
At the front, we have a front fascia that is made from light materials to save weight on an already huge SUV. A big well-known Acura logo on the front is present, just like Jewel’s eye LED headlights. They are the latest technology which greatly improves visibility and safety, especially at night. Overall, the SUV looks quite stylish, we might even dare that the style is on par with other big names like Mercedes, for example. They have their Super performance all-wheel-drive. This helps with improving torque on the RDX. It can freely transfer torque to the back wheels or the left or right side as we choose.
Wheel rims are enormous, 19 inches, in particular, they are also made from lightweight materials. Using materials that aren’t on the heavy side helps with fuel economy. These changes aren’t too big but are sure enough to make us like the 2023 Acura RDX even more if that was possible. For an SUV that doesn’t pay too much attention to style and detail, it sure looks styled and flashy.
2023 Acura RDX Engine Rumors
As far as the engine goes, we have no breaking news. There is only one choice, and that is a 2.0-liter four cylinders that can produce around 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard. All-wheel drive is available, and it helps a lot when an SUV is this big.
There are no hybrid powertrains for RDX as of yet. But we heard it through the grapevine that as of the 2024 model year, we might be getting an all-electric version of the truck. If this actually happens, which we hope it will, we can see Acura using systems similar to their competitors. Hopefully, the range on a single charge won’t be less than 300 miles. The quick charge must be an option since no one likes sitting at a gas station for too long.
2023 Acura RDX Price and Release Date
The starting price for the 2023 Acura RDX is around $40,000. This includes front-wheel drive, but if you prefer all-wheel drive, that is going to cost you an extra $2000.
Moreover, the RDX with all the extra options should stand around $51,000, this includes bigger wheels, better suspension, a panoramic roof, heated seats, and safety cameras all around. This might sound expensive for an Acura, but considering the prices of their competitors, this sounds like a bargain.