Acura is a well-known car manufacturer that makes luxury vehicles. They are known for their RDX and MDX models, which are mid-size luxury SUVs.
RDX was originally called the MDX, which stands for mid-range SUV. This model was released in 2005, making it almost ten years old! Since then, it has been upgraded and changed a couple of times.
In 2012, the MDX received a new look and feel with its new soft-leather dashboard coverings and bolder accents. In 2013, they reinforced the frame of the vehicle to keep it sturdy during hurricanes or similar weather events.
The biggest change to the MDX this year was its top-of-the-line model, the Acura RDishback.
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Differences in size
Acura MDX and RDX are very different vehicles. They are also named differently, which can make it hard to tell them apart.
MDX is a larger car made by Acura. It is a mid-size car with a max size of 7 passengers and heavy equipment.
RDX is a small car with a max size of 4 passengers and heavy equipment. It is an upscale vehicle at Acura.
These two cars have some differences in size that may affect you when looking for a vehicle.
Differences in power
Acura’s flagship model, the MDX, is a large SUV. It possesses some impressive abilities, such as making quick work of steep grades and long distance travel.
While it does not have the speed to compete with higher-end SUVs, it makes up for it in power. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine provides strong acceleration and nice top speed.
The six-cylinder engine provides decent mileage and speedier driving performance than the four-cylinder engine. The difference is negligible at high speeds.
Both engines feature variable valve timing, or Valve Actuated bushes, to allow for better power distribution and efficiency. These transmissions are called Pemetic Clutch Units (CCUs).
Differences between the two engines include pistons per cycle, spark plugs, and how much torque they produce.
Similarities
Both models are mid-size luxury vehicles, which means they are tall, heavy, and expensive. These vehicles are known for being very comfortable and worth buying.
These vehicles get very high ratings from customers for their quality and value. Many buy them because of their smooth ride. Some prefer the firmness of the Acura brand over other brands’ luxury sedans.
However, there are some similarities between the two models. The biggest difference is in the features offered on the model. For example, which navigation system you drive with and whether or not you get an entertainment system or a backup camera are factors in which model you buy.
Price
Acura MDX and RDX are very similar cars, except for their price. The luxury Acura cars are more expensive than the budget Acura car, the MDX.
The 2018 Acura MDX is priced at around $37,500, which is a little over $3,000 more expensive than the RDX. At this price point, buyers have more money to invest in additional features and packages.
Some features included in packages are navigation system upgrades, a black accent color option, sunroof options, and a collision mitigation system. These systems can add some serious money into your vehicle’s value.
The 2018 Acuras look nearly identical aside from one minor detail: grill shape. They are labeled RD or luxury rank, while the MDX is called an “accented” rank.
Which one should you buy?
Acura MDX and RDX are two top-selling luxury SUV’s. While neither model has just one feature that makes it better than the other, they do have some differences to consider.
MDX is a little longer than RDX and has a little more spoilage. However, when it comes to performance, performance, and value, there is not much difference between the two models.
Both are capable of doing high performance driving with confidence in each model. They are also very similar in appearance so it does not matter which one you drive!
This article will discuss some of the key differences between Acura MDX and RDX so that you can decide which model you should buy.
Engine performance
The term engine performance can have many different meanings. Some refer to the high powered engines that are found in cars and trucks, while others refer to the overall performance of a car or truck.
When discussing a car or truck with colleagues, other professionals, or even consumers, it is important to understand what engine performance means. For example, a car with an engine that produces 200 horsepower is more powerful than a vehicle with an engine that produces 100 horsepower.
At Acura of Oklahoma, we use two words to describe our vehicle’s engine performance: heaviness of acceleration and drivability. We believe these two attributes are critical to having a satisfying driving experience.
Acura vehicles with more than 150 miles per hour speed ratings offer us at least one attribute that is beyond the typical car or truck: heavy lift off point enabling easier entry and escape from traffic situations.
Transmission performance
There are a few things that you should know about transmission performance. When you drive an Acura, your car will have a transmission performance mode. This mode can be adjusted in the Acura MDX and RDX models.
In transmission performance mode, the car will give you more power to go and will slow down the car to improve shifting response. This is great for driving dynamics as it helps make the car feel smoother when shifting.
However, while in control of the gear box, there can be some negative effects. With more power coming through the wheels, there may be more stress on the engines and transmissions. Additionally, with less responsiveness in shifting response, you may feel more secure when changing gears.
Interior design
There are many ways to design an Acura. Some use bumpers and trim as signs of their style, others do not. As with any design style, there are more expensive ones and less expensive ones.
Acura is known for its interior design, which ranges from simple to heavily embellished. The front seats are usually the default seating position. The left seat can be a third row bench or a cargo space organiser system like in the RDX.
The RDX features a leather-appointed dashboard and suede-trimmed seats, while the MDX has canvas-trimmed seats and aluminum accents. Both cars feature leatherette covers on the armrests and floor cushions that retain your logo or car insignia.