Acura’s strong-selling RDX isn’t straying far from the formula for 2025.
It’s been around since 2019, but I’ll still argue that the Acura RDX is one of the sharpest looking compact crossovers on the market. Because it’s getting a little long in the tooth, though, the automaker saw fit to treat the model to at least a light refresh, if not a complete overhaul, changing up some of the styling and tech features in the process.
Like the larger MDX crossover and the 2025 TLX sedan, Acura tweaked the RDX’s front-end design with a new “frameless” grille. It also gets new wheel options ranging between 19 and 20 inches, depending on the trim, with the Berlina Black wheels being the default option. Three new colors join the palette, including Acura’s latest Urban Gray Pearl that we’ve seen on both its recently updated stablemates, as well as Carbon River Blue and Solar Silver Metallic.
Under the hood, the 2025 Acura RDX carries on with the same K20C4 2.0-liter turbocharged powertrain it had before. That’s no major loss, considering you do get 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque as well as a 10-speed automatic transmission. Nevertheless, it’s not any different than we’ve had for the past six years, so expect similar performance (and, perhaps more importantly, fuel economy) this time around.
In light of Acura’s recent performance kick, we were at least holding out a little bit of hope for a Type S variant, perhaps powered by the more potent, 320-horsepower K20C1 engine that’s in the Integra Type S (and the Honda Civic Type R). Sadly, the company made no mention of such a model in the pipeline.
Inside, the noteworthy tweaks boil down to ergonomics, namely with larger cupholders and better access to the wireless smartphone charger. You still get a 10.2-inch infotainment display, which Acura says supports a widescreen mode for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rather than leaving a second “card” on the right side for the built-in system when you’re using phone projection. Advance Package models get backlit door speakers for the ELS Studio 3D audio system, as well as ambient lighting for the center console and full-leather upholstery.
One thing the 2025 Acura RDX keeps, unlike its siblings, is the “True Touchpad Interface”. Luxury automakers including Acura have largely been pivoting away from trackpads toward just offering touchscreens, but if you were hoping for that here, prepare to be disappointed.
Pricing for the updated Acura RDX should be available shortly, as it’s set to go on sale later this month. Since we’re talking about a remarkably light refresh, I wouldn’t expect MSRPs to move much beyond the typical higher destination fees and modest trim increases (maybe a few hundred dollars).
