2009 Acura RDX

NEW FOR 2009:

- Standard four-way power passenger seat

For 2009, the Acura RDX is unchanged, save for the addition of a four-way power passenger seat.

The RDX uses a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and wheel-mounted paddle shifters. It uses Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which transfers torque between the front and rear axles, and from side to side for improved cornering and traction.

The RDX comes in a single trim line, with an available Technology option package.

Features include 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, active front head restraints, tire pressure monitoring system, fog lamps, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, auto-off xenon headlamps, variable intermittent wipers, intermittent rear wiper, power sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror, illuminated vanity mirrors, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, hard cargo cover, garage door opener, lockable laptop storage in centre console, auto up/down driver's window, cruise control, leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls, six-CD/MP3/WMA stereo with auxiliary input, heated leather seats with eight-way driver and four-way passenger power adjustment, and 60/40 split-folding rear seatback.

The Technology Package adds navigation system with voice recognition, and premium surround system with Dolby II Pro Logic.

Very well done, the RDX returns the power of a V6, but without turbo lag. It provides a well-planted, controlled stance, even on harsh roads, and throttle response is immediate, with sharp handling. The cargo area is huge, and the locking centre console box safely stores a laptop or briefcase. The seats are comfortable both front and back, but passengers must squeeze through narrow rear doors to enter. The Technology Package adds some high-end features, but the resulting forest of tiny controls, joystick and 13-button steering wheel require a lot of attention away from the road.