We’re living in an exciting time for cars. Even entry-level models now pack tech and features that used to be luxury-only.
SUVs have nailed the mix of comfort, practicality, and gadgets, with smooth rides and commanding views of the road. Luxury brands are jumping in, offering premium touches even at the entry-level.
Still, the pure joy of driving has taken a back seat. Most SUVs feel more like cruisers than connected machines, though a few brands keep the enthusiast spark alive.
To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Acura and other authoritative sources, including CarEdge, J.D. Power, and TopSpeed.
The luxury SUV that actually excites car enthusiasts
Packed with comfort, tech, and handling that surprises
Compared to sedans, SUVs are taller, heavier, and not exactly aerodynamic. That usually means more body roll and less connection to the road.
On the plus side, they nail ride comfort, practicality, and a commanding view that drivers love. But for enthusiasts, most SUVs don’t offer the thrill of pushing a car to its limits.
There are a few models that do, but they come with a steep price tag. That makes them exciting, yes, but out of reach for most buyers.
What if you want an entry-level luxury SUV that’s fast and fun to drive? There’s actually one that hits both marks and has won over enthusiasts.
It’s not known for wild performance, but it has a special place in fans’ hearts. This SUV comes from a brand famous for making some of the best driving machines out there.
The Acura RDX: Fun to drive, not just a comfy SUV
An engine that surprises with lively, engaging performance
Performance is what makes a car truly fun to drive. The 2026 Acura RDX strikes a balance that’s far more engaging than most luxury SUVs.
2026 Acura RDX performance specs
|
Engine |
2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four |
|---|---|
|
Power |
272 hp |
|
Torque |
280 lb-ft |
|
Transmission |
10-speed auto |
The RDX packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Power goes to all four wheels through a smooth 10-speed automatic.
The numbers might not wow on paper, but it’s how the engine delivers that sets the RDX apart. Torque kicks in early at 1,600 RPM, giving strong, responsive mid-range for city driving or quick highway passes.
Up top, Honda’s famous VTEC tech keeps the engine lively, so it stays eager even when you push it harder. The result is a balance that’s both practical and genuinely fun to drive.
SH-AWD that makes handling genuinely fun
What really matches the RDX’s eager engine is how it handles. It’s the kind of combination that makes enthusiasts smile.
Acura equips the RDX with all-wheel drive, but not the ordinary kind. This is their performance-focused Super Handling All-Wheel Drive.
Unlike typical AWD systems that mainly provide traction, SH-AWD distributes power not just front-to-back, but side-to-side across the rear axle. Around corners, it sends more power to the outside wheels, keeping this SUV surprisingly agile and planted.
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Engineered for longevity, not just flash
Reliability and quality that stand the test of time
Is it the performance or the handling that makes the RDX stand out? Sure, enthusiasts will love the fundamentals, but Acura made sure the fun lasts for the long haul.
The RDX doesn’t just thrill—it’s reliable too. Coming from Honda’s luxury and sporty division, it carries a reputation for quality you can trust.
The numbers back it up. J.D. Power gave it 81/100 for overall consumer satisfaction and 85/100 for quality and reliability. Add in a first-five-year maintenance cost of just $3,252—over $2,200 below the luxury SUV average—and the RDX proves it’s a car that keeps the smiles coming for miles.
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Luxury touches that actually make a difference
Premium feel where you notice it most
By now, it’s clear the Acura RDX is a thrill for enthusiasts. But does that mean giving up on luxury, features, or space? Not at all.
Packed with all the features you actually need
Step inside the RDX, and you’ll notice the effort to make it feel truly premium. Unlike other luxury SUVs that rely on giant screens and minimalist dashboards, the RDX has a bit of old-school charm with more physical switches.
Soft-touch materials are everywhere, boosting that luxury feel. Surfaces feature brushed aluminum, open-pore wood, and Milano leather, giving the cabin a high-end vibe.
It’s not just about looks, either—the RDX comes loaded with features like a 10.2-inch touchscreen, 16-speaker ELS audio, 16-way power front seats, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced driver-assistance tech.
Roomy, practical, and ready for everyday life
The RDX has a sporty side, but on weekends it doubles perfectly as a family SUV. There’s room for five passengers, and the rear seats are comfy enough for adults on long drives.
Cargo space comes in at 31.1 cubic feet, plenty for your weekend bags or gear. It’s sporty, practical, and ready for whatever the week throws at you.
2026 Acura RDX interior dimensions
|
Front row |
Rear row |
|
|---|---|---|
|
Headroom |
40.0 inches |
38.0 inches |
|
Shoulder room |
60.0 inches |
57.0 inches |
|
Legroom |
42.0 inches |
38.0 inches |
|
Hip room |
55.0 inches |
50.0 inches |
The Honda SUV That Has More Luxury Than A Lexus (And It’s Not An Acura)
This Honda SUV packs premium features, upscale design, and tech that rival a Lexus—proving luxury doesn’t always come with a premium badge.
Comfort that works for daily life, without losing the fun
Sporty handling meets practical, everyday usability
Even though the RDX leans toward the sporty side, it still delivers a comfortable ride in everyday driving. The precise handling means the suspension is a bit firm, but it never feels harsh for passengers.
The setup strikes a great balance—stiff enough to be engaging, yet soft enough to keep everyone comfortable. It carries a bit of that refined, German-like feel in the way it manages bumps and uneven pavement.
The seats elevate the experience even further. They offer enough support to hold you in place during spirited driving, while remaining cushioned enough to keep you fresh on long trips.
Why the RDX is a smarter choice than most luxury SUVs
Overall, the RDX has earned its reputation among enthusiasts thanks to its sharp handling, comfortable ride, rock-solid reliability, and everyday practicality. The pricing only makes it more appealing, coming in between $45,100 and $54,850 across several trims.
What Acura nailed is keeping the RDX’s core strengths consistent no matter which trim you choose. The lively engine, quick-shifting gearbox, and impressive SH-AWD system all come standard.
That means even the base model delivers the same engaging drive as the top-tier version. In a world where badge value and feature lists often overshadow driving feel, the RDX stands out as a genuinely smart choice.
Stephan is the sports journalist for the Maple Grove Report.
