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2009 Acura RDX

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Acura RDX

Overview

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2009 Acura RDX Review

By KBB.com Editorial Staff

Combining sport sedan-like power and handling with the cargo versatility, high seating position and all-wheel-drive capability of an SUV, the premium-badged 2009 Acura RDX boasts a full arsenal of appeal. Upon its introduction for the 2007 model year the RDX's only true competitor was the BMW X3, a vehicle that essentially had the compact premium SUV segment all to itself since its introduction for the 2004 model year. With new and upcoming entries, such as the Audi Q5, Infiniti EX, Mercedes GLK and others, buyers will benefit from even more options.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're looking for small, high-performance luxury SUV that also has an outstanding reputation for service, reliability and resale, the RDX make the perfect choice.

You May Not Like This Car If...

For true sport-sedan driving dynamics you still have to buy a sport sedan. The 2009 Acura RDX's SUV chassis might prove too heavy for those looking for car-like handling characteristics.

What's New for 2009

For 2009, Acura adds a power passenger seat to the RDX's standard equipment list, along with four new colors and an updated version of the AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic Update service.

Driving the RDX

Driving Impressions With its turbocharged engine, Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system and fully-independent sport-tuned suspension, the 2009 Acura RDX indeed delivers acceleration and handling levels in line with some sport sedans. Responsive and...

eager around town, the RDX will even handle curvy roads with deftness and confidence – although it doesn't provide quite the same feel of integration between driver, machine and road as does the BMW X3. Like a sport sedan, highway ride is taut but comfortable. All-in-all, we enjoyed every mile spent behind the wheel of the RDX.

Favorite Features

DVD-Audio Sound System
In addition to compatibility with "just about every type of current audio format," according to Acura, the RDX's optional DVD-Audio system delivers impressive surround sound.

Real-Time Traffic Information
As part of the RDX's satellite communication system, the navigation screen can display real-time traffic speeds and accident information in 77 major cities, making it easy to see problems ahead and find the best way around them.

2009 Acura RDX Details

Interior

The athletic exterior design is complemented inside by sport-style seats covered in perforated leather, a sculpted three-spoke steering wheel and metallic trim. With or without the comprehensive Technology Package the RDX's interior features a dynamic, high-tech ambiance. One of the more functional features is a huge center console that's big enough to swallow a laptop computer. Most will find the back seat cozy without being cramped, while fold-flat rear seats extend the capacity of an already-generous cargo area.

Exterior

The RDX conveys its performance potential in the form of 18-inch wheels, a raked version of the familiar five-point grille, dual-outlet exhaust and a "turbo" badge on the back. A unique feature is the unconventional tailgate that is integrated into the rear bumper, unlike other SUVs, providing a smoother look to the rear end. HID headlamps are included as standard equipment.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2009 Acura RDX's impressive standard-equipment list includes a glass moonroof, HID headlamps, heated front seats, 18-inch wheels and a 360-watt sound system featuring an in-dash six-disc CD/MP3/WMA player, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth hands-free integration, seven speakers and an auxiliary input for portable MP3 players. A long list of standard safety equipment includes front, front-side and two-row side-curtain airbags plus electronic stability and traction control systems.

Optional Equipment

A comprehensive Technology Package is the only available option for the 2008 Acura RDX. It consists of a navigation system with voice recognition and real-time traffic information, GPS-linked solar-sensing climate control and a 410-watt, 10-speaker audio system that features XM Satellite Radio and a six-disc CD/DVD-Audio player with MP3/WMA capability plus DTS and Dolby Pro Logic II processing. Surprisingly, the tech-savvy RDX doesn't offer remote-sensing unlock and start.

Under the Hood

Featuring the first turbocharged engine to power an Acura (or Honda) automobile for sale in the U.S., the 2009 Acura RDX's 260 pound-feet of torque is the most ever for a Honda product – even more than the dear, departed Acura NSX. Thanks in part to a sophisticated variable-flow turbo, the four-cylinder engine delivers the quick response and minimal lag associated with smaller turbochargers plus the high-rpm boost of a bigger turbo. The Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system is able to transfer torque not just from front to rear, but also between the two rear wheels, providing both safety and performance advantages. Unlike the BMW X3, the RDX is not available with a manual transmission. The RDX has a maximum tow rating of 1,500 pounds.

2.3-liter in-line 4 Turbocharged
240 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
260 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/22

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2009 Acura RDX Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.5

Out of 10

Based on 154 Ratings for the 2007 - 2012 Acura RDX models.

Review this car

Value

8.6/10

Quality

8.9/10
Reliability

9.1/10

Performance

8.9/10
Comfort

8.6/10

Styling

8.8/10

Basic Test Drive

By splspf (CA) on Friday, April 27, 2012

I don't own this car

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: Not Rated
Quality: 7/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 6/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"I only test drove it: Pros: Uses regular gas 87 Auto shifts to 3, 4 and 6 cylinders while driving in traffic to save gas. Text message capability - can text with 6 different responses. Good power, took it up a very steep hill and downshifted well on the decline. Separate climate control for the passenger including shut off. Seating was comfortable and lots of legroom for rear passengers. CONs Only two interiors are offered. VERY, VERY BLACK, or a yellowish tan which does not look good if you want it in one of the darker (grayish) colored vehicles. Nav system cannot find any road that is not 'digitized'. The area I was in is 15 years old and the map could not find it. These two 'cons' are major factors which is going to sway my decision to not buy this car and go for the Q5 instead. Why couldn't they have offered a gray interior, also why would you pay a NAV fee, when the thing can't find an established address?"

14 people out of 14 found this review helpful

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Love it!

By VMorrison (VA) on Thursday, April 26, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Handling, pep, fun to drive, great sound system"

Cons: "gas mileage, back up camera is a bit dim"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"Here's what I wanted in a compact crossover: great handling, AWD, excellent pep, superior sound system and good funuction tech package. The RDX delivers on all counts. I couldn't be happier with my 2011. Handles like a BMW 635 I had back in the late 80's, really fun to drive with outstanding 0-60 times. The factory sounds system is the best I've ever owned. I highly recomend this RDX, but regret that Acura has changed course with the 2013 model."

3 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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see all 154 reviews