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The first update of the luxury compact crossover will bring the performance edition. The Type S is official, while the hybrid model is not coming next season. The 2021 Acura RDX is still fresh and attractive. However, the new edition will make a modification that will keep the attention on the crossover.
The RDX is going to offer a powerful turbo-four unit as the base drivetrain. With 272 horsepower, it is one of the most powerful engines in the class. Compared to its bigger sibling, Acura MDX, the compact model is also offering Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive. Then, Sport Hybrid is not available. But, the 2021 Acura RDX Type S will bring the party on with probably 400 hp under the bonnet.
The interior and exterior of the RDX remain unchanged. You can still upgrade your ride with the A-Spec package. It is a cosmetic tuning with a more aggressive appearance. The crossover keeps exterior and interior colors.
2021 Acura RDX Styling
The 2021 Acura RDX is an attractive and luxurious model that keeps fighting its way through the class. The fresh model made an immediate impact and the best indicator is a sale number, which already jumped last season. RDX is available in nine colors. One of them is available only with certain packages. Inside, there are five paints. The compact crossover uses 19-inch wheels, while 20-inchers are optional. Other versions and special designs are available with some bundles of features.
Buyers can pick these colors: Platinum Pearl White, Lunar Steel Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic, Majestic Black Pearl, Fathom Blue Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, Canyon Bronze Metallic, and Gunmetal Metallic. The only paint available with the Technology package is Apex Blue Pearl. Interior could be Ebony, Parchment, or premium Red.
Packages
There are three trim levels with packages ready for the upgrade. The base trim could be replaced with features coming in the Technology bundle. Unique 19-inch wheels are upgrading the exterior, while the Milano leather wraps seats. GPS climate control is the interior enhancement. Plus, there are navigation 3D system, premium 12-speaker audio, and extra USB ports for the rear seat. Safety comes with parking sensors, blind-spot monitors, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The A Spec tuning is one of the most interesting bundles of equipment for Acura crossovers and SUVs. This one is enhancing the appearance, not the performance, as its names could confuse you. By default, buyers will get 20-inch five-spoke wheels, unique bumpers, LED fog lights, and special fascia with updated grille and bumper. You will recognize this version thanks to dual exhaust tips and black rear spoilers. Seats are ventilated and heated. Contrast stitching boosts the overall impression. Special trims as well. A-Spec comes with sport pedals and 16-speaker audio.
Top of the line upgrade for the 2021 Acura RDX is the Advance package. It downsizes wheels to 19 inches, but engineers added an adaptive damper system. Inside the cockpit, drivers will find a 10-inch HUD, 16-way power front seats, wooden accents, and even more safety measures.
2021 Acura RDX Specs
The crossover is getting power from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While most rivals can do 250-260 hp, the 2021 Acura RDX will offer 272 ponies from its turbocharged unit. Also, the engine produces 280 lb-ft of torque. Unfortunately, the compact crossover can’t haul too much, with towing capacity limited to 1,500 pounds. A 10-speed automatic transmission sends power to front wheels. Optionally, you can purchase the AWD and it is the famous Super-Handling system with improved traction and balance. Well, it will cost you $2,000. The crossover returns 25 mpg combined, or 23 mpg if you use AWD and A Spec package.
2021 Acura RDX Type S
The new top of the class model is on the way. The carmaker announced earlier that Type S vehicle is in development, but they didn’t unveil which model will get it. Now, we are pretty sure that a compact crossover is a pioneer. Compared to the MDX, the 2021 Acura RDX is not offering an alternative source of power. The mid-size three-row SUV comes with the Sport Hybrid variant. A hybrid drivetrain is more needed in the compact segment. The Type S could complete two goals if engineers tune an existing hybrid and turn it into PHEV with 400 hp. The crossover will still need a V6 power and mighty electric battery to squeeze every horsepower from it.
Prices
The MSRP of the 2021 Acura RDX will remain at $38,500 with the destination. As said, SH-AWD costs $2,000 and the Technology package is worth $3,200. A Spec bundle price is $3,000, while the most options are coming with a $4,900 Advance package. Heavily loaded, the RDX comes just shy of $50,000. This mark will be broken if the Type S appears. Without too many options, the performance package will increase the price to much higher levels.
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