2025 Acura RDX Brings New Grille, Widescreen Apple CarPlay Mode, and Subtle Updates



 The 2025 Acura RDX has arrived with a minor facelift and a few noteworthy tweaks, promising to captivate buyers despite its conservative update approach. This latest version introduces a new frameless grille, enhanced interior features, and advanced technology options, solidifying its position in the competitive SUV market.



Exterior Refinements

The most prominent change in the 2025 RDX is the adoption of a frameless Diamond Pentagon grille with a more aggressive mesh pattern. This design shift gives the SUV a sharper, more modern look. Gloss black exterior trim and black 19-inch wheels now come standard on base models, while the Advance package offers body-color lower trim and machine-finished rims.

For those seeking a sportier aesthetic, the A-Spec trim provides additional black trim and distinctive 10-spoke, 20-inch wheels available in shark gray or black when paired with the Advance package. New paint colors, including Solar Silver, Canyon River Blue, and Urban Gray Pearl, add to the refreshed exterior's appeal.

Interior Upgrades

Inside, the 2025 RDX focuses on enhancing practicality and technology. The redesigned center console now features larger cupholders and more accessible wireless smartphone charging. The infotainment system's 10.2-inch screen gains a new widescreen mode for a more immersive Apple CarPlay and Android Auto experience.

Premium touches are evident in models equipped with the Advance or A-Spec with Advance packages, which include full-leather upholstery, ambient lighting on the console, and illuminated front and rear speaker cones with acid-etched grilles. These refinements ensure a more luxurious cabin experience.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the RDX retains its robust 272 hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers power to all four wheels through Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system, offering up to 70 percent of torque to the rear axle and enhancing agility by distributing 100 percent of that torque to the outside rear wheel when needed.

Market Performance and Expectations

Despite its age, the RDX remains a strong performer in Acura’s lineup, with a 28 percent sales increase in the first half of 2024. This popularity suggests that buyers appreciate the RDX's blend of style, performance, and practicality, even with the modest updates for 2025.

Additional Features and Specifications

The 2025 Acura RDX includes several additional highlights:

  • JewelEye® LED headlights and “Chicane” LED daytime running lights and brake lights.
  • Turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC® 4-cylinder engine with 272 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque.
  • Sport-tuned 10-speed automatic transmission.
  • Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system with torque vectoring.
  • Sport-tuned suspension with standard 19-inch wheels and available 20-inch wheels.
  • Adaptive Damper System with three different damping profiles.
  • Four-mode Integrated Dynamics System with Snow, Comfort, Normal, and Sport modes.
  • High-tech interior with a standard 10.2-inch HD center display and True Touchpad Interface™.
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility.
  • Available Qi-compatible wireless charging.
  • Driver-focused cabin with available open-pore wood, Milano leather, and 16-way power adjustable front seats.
  • Acura Iconic Drive™ ambient lighting with 27 unique interior lighting color combinations.
  • Available 16-Speaker 710-watt ELS STUDIO 3D® premium audio system.
  • AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, including Blind Spot Information (BSI), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Follow, Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) system, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system, Lane Departure Warning (LDW) System, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.
  • Three years of AcuraLink™ Security and Remote packages included.

Manufacturing and Availability

The third-generation Acura RDX is designed and developed in America, manufactured at the company's East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio. The 2.0-liter VTEC® turbo engine is produced at the Anna Engine Plant in Ohio, while the SH-AWD™ system is built at the Honda Transmission Plant in Ohio and the 10-speed automatic transmission at the Honda Transmission Plant in Georgia. The RDX was recently named among the Top 12 most American-made vehicles by Cars.com.

The 2025 RDX will begin arriving at Acura dealers nationwide later this month.

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