The 2019 Acura RDX has officially solidified its position as a leader in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment, earning top accolades for safety and achieving best-selling status. For those in the market seeking the Best Compact Luxury Suv, the RDX presents a compelling case, combining exceptional safety ratings with impressive sales figures that underscore its popularity and desirability.
Unrivaled Safety: Acura RDX Earns Top Honors
The 2019 Acura RDX has been awarded the prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the highest safety accolade possible. This recognition reflects the vehicle’s exceptional performance in all IIHS crashworthiness evaluations, achieving a “GOOD” rating in every test. The rigorous testing included challenging scenarios such as the driver-side and passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, and head restraint assessments. Notably, the RDX’s roof demonstrated remarkable strength, withstanding over 21,000 lbs of force, more than five times the vehicle’s weight, before crushing five inches in the roof strength test.
Contributing significantly to this safety achievement is the standard AcuraWatch™ suite of active safety and driver-assistance technologies. This comprehensive system earned a superior rating for front crash prevention, further enhancing the RDX’s safety credentials. AcuraWatch includes features like Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Road Departure Mitigation, all designed to help drivers avoid or mitigate collisions. The RDX also features standard Acura Jewel Eye™ LED headlights, which earned a “good” rating from IIHS, while the curve-adaptive LED headlights available with the Advance Package received an “acceptable” rating, highlighting Acura’s commitment to visibility and safety in all conditions.
The robust safety structure of the 2019 RDX is built upon Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, incorporating new high-strength steel door stiffener rings. Additionally, the RDX features eight airbags, including new driver and front-passenger knee airbags, providing comprehensive occupant protection. These features collectively underscore why the Acura RDX is considered a top contender for the best compact luxury SUV in terms of safety.
America’s Best-Selling Compact Luxury SUV
Beyond its safety accolades, the 2019 Acura RDX has captured the hearts of consumers, becoming America’s #1 retail-selling compact luxury SUV for 2018. This sales leadership is a testament to the RDX’s overall appeal and value proposition in the competitive luxury market. The RDX achieved this milestone after six consecutive months of record-breaking sales following its launch in June. With sales on pace to exceed 60,000 units, the 2019 RDX is poised to set a new all-time sales record, further cementing its position as a leading choice in the best compact luxury SUV category.
This sales success can be attributed to the RDX’s blend of luxury, performance, and technology, packaged in a stylish and versatile compact SUV format. Consumers are clearly drawn to the RDX’s combination of safety, features, and driving dynamics, making it a standout choice when considering the best compact luxury SUV options available.
Innovation and Performance: The 2019 RDX Advantage
The 2019 Acura RDX represents the dawn of a new generation of Acura design, performance, and technology. Built on an all-new, Acura-exclusive body and chassis architecture, the RDX delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. Inside, the RDX boasts a class-leading array of premium features and technologies, including Acura’s innovative True Touchpad Interface™, an expansive ultra-wide panoramic moonroof, and the available Acura ELS Studio 3D™ premium audio system for an immersive auditory experience. Next-generation Acura sport seats with up to 16-way power adjustability further enhance comfort and customization for both driver and passenger.
Powering the 2019 RDX is a potent direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-liter, 16-valve powerplant with DOHC VTEC® valvetrain, paired with the segment’s only 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers 272 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. of torque, outperforming key competitors from Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Volvo. For enhanced handling and control, the RDX is available with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD) system, which can distribute up to 70-percent of torque to the rear wheels and 100-percent of that torque to either the left or right rear wheels, providing exceptional agility and confidence in various driving conditions.
In conclusion, the 2019 Acura RDX stands out as a top contender for the best compact luxury SUV title. Its class-leading safety ratings, best-selling status, and impressive array of luxury, technology, and performance features make it an exceptional choice for discerning buyers seeking a premium and secure driving experience. The RDX not only meets but exceeds expectations in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment, setting a new benchmark for others to follow.
