Acura Unveils the Prototype of its New SUV, the RDX, for the First Time Globally | Acura
Acura RDX Prototype
Acura Unveils the Prototype of its New SUV, the RDX, for the First Time Globally
On January 16, Honda globally unveiled the prototype of the new RDX SUV from its luxury brand Acura at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Text by HARA Akira
The RDX Signals the Dawn of a New Era for the Acura Brand
This prototype of the new RDX SUV follows the first generation, which debuted in North America in 2006,and the second generation in 2012.This is the third generation. It is the first model to adopt Acura's latest design concepts, the "Acura Precision Concept" and "Acura Precision Cockpit," along with a new platform exclusive to this model. It is set to become an entry-premium SUV that signifies the beginning of a new era for the Acura brand.
The exterior features a wide track, long wheelbase, and short overhangs, indicating high driving performance. Distinctive elements include the new Diamond Pentagon Grille at the front, the jewel-like Acura Jewel Eye LED headlights, and sharp character lines along the sides.
The powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter, 16-valve, direct-injection, single-scroll turbocharged engine. With VTEC valve train and Dual VTC (Variable Timing Control), low-end torque has been increased by 40 percent compared to the previous model, achieving a flat torque curve.
The transmission is a segment-first 10-speed automatic. The next-generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, equipped with a newly developed rear differential, and an adaptive damper system with four drive modes (Sport, Sport+, Comfort, Snow) are said to deliver powerful acceleration and linear handling.
Acura RDX Prototype
Acura Unveils the Prototype of its New SUV, the RDX, for the First Time Globally (2)
Distinctive Interior Interface Features a Touchpad
The new cabin, the Acura Precision Cockpit, is appointed with premium materials such as a floating center console, sports steering wheel, Nappa leather sports seats, and olive ash wood. The long wheelbase provides a spacious interior for five passengers plus cargo space.
A distinctive feature of the operation is the 10.2-inch full HD display on the center console, called the "True Touch Interface." It combines the advantages of both traditional touchscreens and remote-based systems.
Every spot on the touchpad, located at the bottom of the console, is precisely mapped 1:1 with an action on the center display. For example, tapping the top-left corner of the touchpad corresponds to the top-left action on the center display. According to the developers, the movements will become personalized with experience, and drivers will quickly become accustomed to it.
The development of the new RDX was conducted at the company's US R&D center, and it will be produced at the East Liberty plant in Ohio. Sales are scheduled to begin in the latter half of 2018.