From the exterior, there's no mistaking the RDX for anything other than an Acura. Some might in fact err in assuming it's the new MDX, which has undergone a significant re-penning for '07. The RDX exhibits the family traits of Acura, of which the vehicle's single-slot, brightly finished grille dominate. The overall appearance is one of athleticism and strength. I find

2007 Acura RDX (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com)

it quite appealing, especially from the rear where the twin exhaust tips suggest something greater under the hood than milquetoast machinery.

And for the price of this US-built Japanese model, which begins at 41K in Canada, something more than ordinary should be on tap. Adding value to the price of entry is a full list of safety and luxury features.

In keeping with Acura's marketing strategy, the only upgrade available in addition to appearance packages is the Tech package, which is essentially a sophisticated navigation system combined with Blue Tooth communications and a rear camera for safer reversing. At an additional $5,000, the Tech system doesn't come cheap.

Otherwise, it's all there including a dynamite-sounding audio system. Safety installs include a full array of airbags inclusive of side curtain airbags and

2007 Acura RDX (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com)

roll-over-sensing. You'll also find Acura's Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) program operating silently in the background, ready to step in if a loss of vehicle control is detected.

Rounding-out the RDX is fuel economy that's okay but not great. Expect to consume 12.5 and 9.3 litres of premium nectar for every 100 kilometres of city and highway driving respectively (19 / 25 mpg). But expect to also be inspired by the performance of the little workhorse and awed by the road-holding tenacity of the sassy RDX. If a stout ride is fair coin for the RDX's exhilarating handling, and you can absorb the power-surge issue, well you've got yourself a winner in the compact SUV segment. This hot little crossover's not for everyone though. Graying baby boomers, such as yours truly, may find it a little edgy for toned-down tastes. On the flip side, anyone wanting a premium-level compact SUV with the heart and sole of a sports car has acquired their target.

Impressive:
· Feisty powerplant
· Outstanding handling ability
· Acura build quality
· Athletic good-looks

Less impressive:
· Tendency to power-surge
· Firm ride
· Coarseness typical of four-cylinder powerplants
· No manual gearbox availability


For more details concerning this vehicle, please refer to the technical specifications and to the standard features list.

If you wish to test-drive or receive a price quotation for this vehicle, you only have to perform a retailer / dealer search in your region.