The Acura RDX has solidified its position as a leader in the competitive premium crossover SUV segment. Outperforming rivals from Volvo and Genesis, the RDX has demonstrated impressive sales growth, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a five-passenger luxury vehicle around the $55,000 mark. While initial impressions might raise a couple of minor questions, a deeper look, especially through the lens of an actual owner, reveals the compelling reasons behind the RDX’s popularity.
Navigating the Infotainment: Understanding the RDX Trackpad
A year ago, a friend sought advice on a new vehicle purchase. As a previous Acura owner, the RDX and MDX naturally topped his list. He ultimately chose the RDX with the Technology Package and has been driving it daily since March. My initial, slight hesitation with the RDX stemmed from the infotainment trackpad controller. In a world dominated by touchscreens, the trackpad felt like a potential point of contention. However, remembering my friend’s recent purchase, I reached out to gain his real-world perspective as a daily user. His insight was valuable:
“The trackpad definitely gets some criticism online, largely because everyone is so accustomed to touchscreens now. It takes a little getting used to, but honestly, the car itself is fantastic.”
This perspective shifts the focus. Instead of dwelling on a potentially divisive feature, it highlights the RDX’s overall strengths. We encourage potential buyers to experience the trackpad firsthand and decide its suitability, rather than dismissing the RDX based on this single element.
Spare Tire Considerations Across 2025 RDX Trims
Another point of interest for some buyers is the availability of a spare tire. While some might consider it a minor detail, for those who frequently encounter varied road conditions or prioritize preparedness, it’s a significant factor. Notably, the A-Spec Advance trim of the 2025 RDX does not include a spare tire.
However, Acura offers a spare tire in three out of the five available 2025 RDX trims: the standard RDX, the Technology Package, and the Advance trim. This means that the majority of the RDX lineup caters to buyers who prefer a spare. This approach is commendable for a couple of reasons. Firstly, all RDX trims are well-equipped and feature-rich. Secondly, because all trims share the same brake rotor diameter, it’s plausible that a spare tire kit could be sourced from Acura parts and potentially fit in the A-Spec models for owners who desire one. Therefore, for those prioritizing a spare, the RDX offers viable solutions.
The 2025 Acura Rdx SH-AWD A-Spec Advance: A Deep Dive into Standout Features
With extensive experience testing vehicles, the Acura ELS Studio 3D Premium audio system in the RDX A-Spec Advance stands out as truly exceptional. Boasting sixteen speakers and 710 watts of power, the clarity, depth, and sheer power of this system are remarkable, especially within this vehicle class and price range. It delivers an audio experience that surpasses many premium systems tested at various price points.
Beyond audio, the driving dynamics of the 2025 Acura RDX are equally impressive. The 2.0-liter turbo engine and well-matched transmission provide responsive acceleration and a sense of confident speed. Braking is equally assured, and the handling is class-leading, maintaining composure even over rough roads despite the 20-inch wheels and low-profile tires of the A-Spec Advance. In everyday driving scenarios, the RDX excels as a driver-focused vehicle.
2025 RDX Pricing and Practical Advantages
The top-tier RDX A-Spec Advance trim, fully equipped, comes in at a competitive MSRP of $56,400, including destination and handling. Considering the current automotive market and the features offered, this represents strong value. A significant practical benefit is that the 2025 Acura RDX does not require premium gasoline, a welcome advantage over many turbocharged premium vehicles. Furthermore, Acura wisely equips the RDX with all-season tires, avoiding the inconvenience of summer-only performance tires that necessitate seasonal changes.
Conclusion: The 2025 Acura RDX – A Top Choice in its Class
The 2025 Acura RDX emerges as an ideal choice for those seeking a five-seat driver-centric crossover, perfectly complementing the larger Acura MDX. It skillfully avoids common drawbacks and compromises often found in other brands. For discerning audiophiles and driving enthusiasts, the 2025 Acura RDX SH-AWD A-Spec Advance deserves serious consideration and should be high on any shopping list.
John Goreham is a respected member of the New England Motor Press Association and a seasoned vehicle expert. With an engineering background focused on electric vehicles and two decades in high-tech, biopharma, and the automotive supply chain, John brings a wealth of knowledge to his automotive journalism. He is a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE int). Beyond his extensive work at Torque News, John has contributed thousands of articles and reviews to numerous American news outlets. He is known for his candid and insightful opinions on all things automotive. Connect with John on LinkedIn and follow his insights on X or Torque News’ X channel. John’s articles are produced with journalistic integrity and are never AI-generated, though he utilizes software for grammar and punctuation checks and image tools.
Images of the 2025 Acura RDX A-Spec Advance trim by John Goreham.
