Turbocharged Acura RDX

[Corey Bit Spank]

Turbocharged Acura RDX Prototype Debuts at North American International Auto Show



Detroit, MI - January 9, 2006 -- The highly anticipated Acura RDX Prototype SUV debuted today at the North American International Auto Show. Combining sport utility with sports sedan handling and performance, RDX features an innovative 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), and is designed to redefine the entry premium SUV segment. This near-production prototype provides an advance preview of the all-new RDX that will go on sale this summer.



"The RDX Prototype represents the forward thinking that will be seen in the next generation of Acura light trucks," said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. "It is loaded with leading edge technology and it exemplifies what we call intelligent performance: a sporty, luxurious and functional SUV that has outstanding performance yet is also fuel efficient."



RDX features an all-new 2.3-liter i-VTEC(R) four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 240 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque. This is the first application of forced induction technology in Acura history. The revolutionary i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a variable flow turbocharger, which is exclusive to the RDX, and provides dramatic performance benefits while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. To complement the all-aluminum high-performance engine, the RDX utilizes Acura's steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to manually operate the 5-speed sequential SportShift(TM) automatic transmission.



Acura's Super Handling-AWD system is tuned specifically for the new RDX platform. SH-AWD's sophisticated electronic controls automatically distribute torque fore and aft, as well as splitting the rear torque left to right. The result is dramatically enhanced handling, traction and stability during sporty driving as well as in inclement weather. A sophisticated chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension complement the SH-AWD. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) combines with large disc brakes and ABS to enhance control.



The RDX is built on an all-new global light truck platform. Reflecting Acura's commitment to safety through innovation, the RDX is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure and additional state-of-the-art safety features. The ACE structure helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area. The system also helps to provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants while at the same time increasing compatibility with other vehicles in a frontal collision. Front, side and side curtain airbags, in addition to rollover sensors add an extra measure of safety.



The chiseled exterior styling combines with a generous greenhouse to provide excellent visibility for driving in city traffic or on twisty mountain roads. RDX employs a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, sporty wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to an aggressive Acura signature five-sided grill. Custom 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX Prototype an aggressive stance. Dual exhaust tips, HID headlights, and a rear spoiler add to the sporty appearance of the vehicle.



Inside, the RDX combines richly appointed materials with a sporty, driver-oriented cockpit. The center console features an innovative storage system, which allows for hidden and lockable storage of a briefcase or laptop computer. The prototype's interior features an assortment of leading-edge technologies, such as the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM), AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system with real time traffic and HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface. A premium Acura/ELS(TM) DVD-Audio system is tuned to deliver rich surround sound to the cabin.



The RDX offers seating for five and a versatile rear cargo hatch allows for easy load-in and storage. The second row seats split and fold flat into the floor, providing ample cargo space for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.



The RDX will be assembled at Honda of America Manufacturing in Marysville, Ohio and will go on-sale in the summer of 2006. Pricing has not been determined.[/I]



[url]http://www.honda-acura.net/forums/showthread.php?p=2703953#post2703953[/url]



[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v332/jeepsrule1/rdx_concept.jpg

 

[imported_truzoom]

I would spank that harder than a cottage cheese covered mousepad in august.

 

[SpoiledMan]

I would spank that harder than a cottage cheese covered mousepad in august.

Is that good or bad?

 

[Corey Bit Spank]

haha. This could really be an interesting car. Kind of like a "poor man's" Range Rover Sport.

 

[imported_truzoom]

Is that good or bad?

You tell me. :lol

 

[Corey Bit Spank]

 

[stilez]

I like it...a lot.





I want to see performance numbers and pricing .

 

[klnyc]

It's about time Honda/Acura come out a F/I model....sheeish.

I dig it :2thumbs:

 

[drewski59]

I'd also have to see performance numbers and pricing, but just by looking at it I'd definitely choose one over the new RAV4!!!

 

[Sarcazmo]

Reminds me of the new tribeca.

 

[chml17l]

Kind of agree w/ Sarcazmo. The first "model" pics from the front do look reminiscent of a Subaru while the rear pic sort of reminds me of a BMW X3/X5 rearend. Luckily, the actual autoshow pics show the car looks better in real life than the model pics.



Nice to see Acura finally go turbo. :up How about a factory turbo RSX? Are the Honda gods listening?

 

[SpoiledMan]

How about a factory turbo RSX? Are the Honda gods listening?

Yeah they heard ya loud and clear and it's on it's way to demise.

 

[Rolla]

Is it just me or does the side/rear profile look like an FX35/45?

 

[Corey Bit Spank]

I actually think it looks kind of like a new Grand Vitara from the side.

 

[pocon1]

Got a chance to ride in one the other night (I sell Acuras). The rep came around in a Morrocan red with black interior. This car is strong. There is very little turbo lag (compared to my WRX wagon). I think this has to do with the torque converter engaging right when the turbo kicks in. The handling was great as well. We were doing over 80 down the interstate in the heavy East Coast rains of the past week. The RDX was very stable. Also, the radio works great, it has a really good production sound system. The seats were comfortable, and a fair amount of room for the rear seat. All in all, a kick butt vehicle.



Now for the downside. No auto dimming reaview mirror. No memory seating. No power passenger seat. The only other issue is the tailgate. It is set so low into the bumper that when someone rearends you they will probably destroy your tailgate.

Also, it looks like Acura will require synthetic oil (Mobil 1 is standard). I don't consider this a big deal because my integra and wrx both get fed mobil 1, but for those who don't think high performance they may not be used to synthetic and its price.



All in all, a great vehicle that can carry a fair amount of stuff, handle really well, and have a little bit of speed. Like my wrx, only bigger, heavier, and much more luxurious.