In 2025, Acura steps it up with their extremely popular RDX regarding style, technology and interior upgrades. Maintaining its top position in the compact luxury SUV segment, my review version is the top-of-the-line A-Spec Advance edition, and even with all its enhancements, Acura still keeps the bank account happy at a very reasonable price tag.
The eyes get captivated with the highly recommended Urban Gray Pearl exterior—a new color—complemented with several new additions for 2025. The A-Spec trim enhances the RDX with exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels which come redesigned boasting 10-spoke wheels finished in “Shark Gray” highlights. Other standouts include the “frameless” diamond pentagon grille, futuristic Jewel Eye LED headlights and, of course, A-Spec badges to let onlookers know what level this vehicle is on. The look is welcomingly aggressive and sportier than past generations.
Under the hood, the RDX flexes with a 272-horsepower 2.0-liter VTEC turbocharged engine, making its four-cylinder classification an afterthought, while averaging a decent 23 miles to the gallon. Regarding the driving experience, the peppy motor is paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system Acura’s consistently applauded for. Overall, the powertrain delivers in acceleration, maneuvering, and a smooth ride no matter what the terrain brings.
The interior is also impressive and maintains the racing theme with bold red leather seats which come both ventilated and perforated, complete with piping and 16-way power adjustability in the front. Tech gets a boost as well. Although the traditional True Touchpad Interface takes some time to master, there are enough knobs, buttons and personal applications to ease controlling everyday adjustments. The updated center counsel flaunting a high-resolution infotainment screen has been repositioned to permit more storage and ample room for the wireless charger, while the Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa Built-In bring seamless connectivity. Ears get a lot of love as well due to the banging ELS Studio 3D premium audio system with 16 speakers, making every drive a traveling concert. Mentioning music and vibes, the ambient lighting includes illuminated speaker cones throughout the cabin to set the vibe to whatever mood you want.
I highly recommend the Advance Package, which comes with heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, ambient lighting, and a hands-free power tailgate to name a few perks. Acura is all about safety, and the head-up display; surround-view camera system; and standard AcuraWatch suite complete with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking will certainly ease the mind of any owner.
Overall, in a segment crowded with contenders, the 2025 Acura RDX A-Spec Advance remains a standout with all of 2025’s upgrades.
Fuel Economy: 21 city/26 highway/23 combined
Price: $54,450 MSRP
For more information, visit Acura.com.