New Car Review: 2010 Acura RDX

By Bob Plunkett 

The 2010 Acura RDX slots into the compact class with a 104-inch wheelbase and totes a unique variable-flow turbocharger to nix the typical turbo's power lag.

And the 2010 Acura RDX's feisty CUV boost the fuel economy by several mpg points while trimming MSRP figures by several thousands of dollars by offering the new option of a front-wheel-drive (FWD) version in lieu of the previously-standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) equipment.

 Federal EPA fuel consumption numbers for the RDX FWD come to 18 miles per gallon for city driving and 24 mpg on the highway. For RDX AWD, the numbers tally to 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

 The computer-controlled AWD system can disburse the engine's considerable torque not only to wheels fore and aft but the left or right ones too. It's always engaged and enables the vehicle to maneuver on wet or dry pavement with the uncanny agility of a wily sports car.

 In the handsome cabin there's room for five riders with supportive sport bucket seats in front of a bench for three and a rear bay for cargo.

 Posh gear inside includes perforated leather trimming the seats, automatic controls for the climate system with dual zones for comfort, power operation for windows and mirrors and door locks, the driver's bucket with 8-way power controls including adjustable lumbar support, heat elements inside both front buckets, and a power moonroof.

 New standard interior features for 2010 RDX models range from a rear view camera system to auto-function headlights, ambient footwell lighting, an electronic compass and USB-port connectivity.

 Acura establishes MSRP figures for the 2010 RDX CUV beginning at $32,520 for RDX FWD. The 2010 RDX SH-AWD lists for $34,520.

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