Cars

2026 Acura RDX Review: Luxury SUV Interior & Performance

JH
John H
Senior Cars Expert
8 min read

2026 Acura RDX Review: Luxury SUV Interior & Performance

The 2026 Acura RDX continues to embody the perfect blend of premium craftsmanship, advanced technology, and dynamic performance. As one of Acura's most popular models, the RDX has evolved into a refined luxury compact SUV that appeals to drivers seeking both comfort and athleticism. With its bold exterior styling, sophisticated interior features, and responsive drivetrain, the 2026 RDX cements its position in a competitive market that includes the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Lexus NX.

In this comprehensive 2026 Acura RDX review, we'll dive deep into the luxury SUV’s interior design, materials, technology integration, driving dynamics, performance specs, safety features, and overall value proposition. Whether you're cross-shopping luxury SUVs or are a loyal Acura enthusiast, this detailed analysis will help you understand what makes the new RDX a compelling choice for 2026.

Exterior Design: Bold, Modern, and Aerodynamic

While this review focuses on the interior and performance, it's worth noting that the exterior of the 2026 Acura RDX has undergone subtle yet impactful refinements. The signature Diamond Pentagon grille is bolder than ever, flanked by sleek LED Jewel Eye® headlights that enhance both visibility and visual appeal. The sculpted body lines and sharp creases convey a sense of motion, even when the vehicle is parked.

The updated aerodynamic profile not only improves fuel efficiency but also reduces wind noise, contributing to a quieter cabin experience. Wheel options range from 19-inch standard alloys to available 20-inch performance wheels on higher trims, giving the RDX a poised and athletic stance. Available exterior colors include Platinum White Pearl, Apex Blue Pearl, and Sangria Red Metallic, all of which emphasize the SUV’s premium aesthetics.

2026 Acura RDX Interior: A Sanctuary of Comfort and Craftsmanship

Step inside the 2026 Acura RDX, and you're immediately greeted by a cabin that exudes luxury, attention to detail, and driver-centric engineering. Acura has elevated the RDX’s interior with high-quality materials, intuitive layouts, and modern design cues that create a serene and upscale environment.

Materials and Build Quality

One of the standout aspects of the 2026 RDX interior is the use of premium materials throughout. Soft-touch leather, genuine wood trim (available on higher trims like the A-Spec and Advance), and brushed aluminum accents enhance the sense of refinement. The dashboard is ergonomically angled toward the driver, placing all controls within easy reach.

Acura has also improved acoustic insulation for 2026, reducing road and wind noise significantly. This contributes to a quieter ride, making long drives more enjoyable and enhancing the overall perception of luxury.

Seating Comfort and Space

The 2026 Acura RDX seats five passengers comfortably, with generous legroom and headroom in both the front and rear. The front seats are available with 12-way power adjustment, heated and ventilated functions, and memory settings for the driver. The A-Spec trim adds sport bolstered front seats with contrast stitching, offering enhanced lateral support during spirited driving.

Rear passengers benefit from ample legroom—up to 39.3 inches—and easy access thanks to the wide rear doors. The rear bench can be folded in a 60/40 split, offering flexible cargo configurations for families, adventurers, or urban professionals.

Cargo and Storage Solutions

With the rear seats upright, the 2026 RDX offers 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space—on par with rivals in its segment. Fold the rear seats down, and you unlock 58.8 cubic feet of storage, enough for weekend luggage, golf bags, or outdoor gear. The cargo area features underfloor storage for smaller items, tie-down hooks, and available hands-free power tailgate for added convenience.

Interior storage includes dual-level glove compartments, large door pockets, front and rear cupholders, and a center console with wireless charging pad and USB-C ports, ensuring that both driver and passengers stay connected and organized.

Technology and Infotainment: Acura's Intuitive Interface

The 2026 Acura RDX is packed with cutting-edge technology, making it one of the most connected and user-friendly luxury SUVs on the market.

Infotainment System: True Touchpad Interface (TTI)

At the heart of the RDX’s tech suite is the 10.2-inch HD infotainment display, controlled through Acura’s True Touchpad Interface (TTI). While some competitors have moved to traditional touchscreen systems, Acura’s touchpad offers a unique, precise way to navigate menus without taking your eyes off the road.

The TTI system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, both wirelessly, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity. Users can access music, maps, messages, and apps without plugging in a cable. The system also includes built-in navigation with real-time traffic updates, voice recognition, and AcuraLink® connected services.

Audio System: ELS Studio® Premium Sound

Available on higher trims is the 16-speaker ELS Studio® Premium 3D audio system, developed in collaboration with Grammy Award-winning producer Elliot Scheiner. This immersive sound system delivers rich, theater-quality audio with deep bass, crisp highs, and spatial clarity. Whether you're listening to classical music or your favorite podcast, the ELS Studio system enhances the auditory experience.

Driver Assistance and Digital Gauges

The 2026 RDX features a fully digital 12.3-inch driver information display that replaces traditional analog gauges. This customizable screen provides real-time data on speed, navigation, ADAS alerts, and performance metrics. The available head-up display (HUD) projects key driving information onto the windshield, reducing driver distraction.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The 2026 Acura RDX continues to impress with its balanced performance, combining power, efficiency, and agility. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the RDX delivers a composed and engaging driving experience.

Engine and Powertrain

Under the hood, the 2026 RDX is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive shifts. The turbocharged setup provides strong low-end torque, making the RDX feel quick off the line and confident during highway passing maneuvers.

Fuel economy for the 2026 RDX is estimated at 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive (SH-AWD®) models are slightly less efficient at 21/27/23 mpg, but the performance benefits often outweigh the minor fuel penalty.

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)

A standout feature of the 2026 Acura RDX is its available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system. Unlike conventional AWD systems, SH-AWD® can send up to 70% of engine power to the rear axle and, more impressively, up to 100% of that rear torque to the outside wheel during cornering. This torque vectoring improves traction, reduces understeer, and enhances cornering stability, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

The result is a more planted feel during high-speed cornering and superior grip on winding roads. For drivers who value precision and control, SH-AWD® makes the RDX feel more like a sport sedan than a compact SUV.

Driving Modes and Suspension

The 2026 RDX offers multiple drive modes—Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Snow—accessible via a dial on the center console. These modes adjust throttle response, transmission shift points, steering weight, and suspension damping (on certain trims) to suit different conditions and preferences.

The A-Spec trim adds adaptive dampers for a more dynamic ride. While the standard suspension delivers a comfortable and compliant experience over bumps and potholes, the adaptive setup tightens up in Sport mode, reducing body roll and improving handling. Despite its sporty tuning, the RDX never feels harsh, striking a fine balance between comfort and performance.

Steering and Braking

Steering in the 2026 RDX is precise and well-weighted, with minimal play and excellent feedback. The electric power steering system adjusts assistance based on speed and driving mode, ensuring light handling at low speeds and firm control at higher velocities.

Braking performance is strong, with responsive pedal feel and fade-resistant performance. The standard ventilated front and rear discs provide confident stopping power, while the optional Sport Brake Package (available on A-Spec) includes larger front rotors and red-painted calipers for enhanced performance and visual appeal.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Safety is a top priority for Acura, and the 2026 RDX comes equipped with an extensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as part of the AcuraWatch™ package.

Standard AcuraWatch™ Features

Additional safety features include eight airbags, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and available 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility during parking and low-speed maneuvers.

NHTSA and IIHS Ratings

The 2026 Acura RDX is expected to achieve top safety ratings, following in the footsteps of its 2025 predecessor. The 2025 model received a 5-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). With continued improvements in structural rigidity and ADAS calibration, the 2026 RDX is poised to match or exceed these benchmarks.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2026 Acura RDX is available in three primary trim levels: Base, A-Spec, and Advance. Each trim adds more luxury, performance, and technology features.

Base Trim

The base 2026 Acura RDX starts at approximately $44,995 (MSRP). It includes standard features such as:

A-Spec Trim

Priced around $49,500, the A-Spec trim enhances the RDX’s sporty character with:

Advance Trim

The top-tier Advance trim starts at about $54,800 and offers the ultimate in luxury and tech: