Acura Flashes 2019 RDX Prototype

Acura teased us and has now delivered a completely new direction for the RDX and the brand. The 2019 RDX Prototype is striking, with some clean but bold looks that should appeal more to Americans. Combine that with some solid engineering, and it looks like Acura may actually be back. Finally.

Under those curvaceous body panels is a stiff, new chassis that promises tight handling. That combines with a 2.0-liter DOHC VTEC Turbo engine. The low-inertia mono-scroll turbo helps with pumping out 40 percent more low-end torque than the old RDX made, plus what Acura claims is a flat torque curve. Leapfrogging other small SUVs, the RDX will also have a 10-speed automatic transmission.

2019 Acura RDX Prototype (Credit: Acura )

Acura tweaked the SH-AWD system so it’s beyond other torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive systems in rivals. In fact, the rear differential can handle 150 percent more torque than in the current RDX, which seems necessary, considering.

NSX tech has trickled down to the RDX. Most notable is the Adaptive Damper System that works with the Integrated Dynamics System. Drivers get to choose one of four modes.

If the RDX looks bigger, that’s not an illusion. The exterior and interior have both grown, which means more legroom and cargo space. Acura is throwing more luxuries in there, like upgraded Nappa leather, a 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, HUD, and a super-premium sound system.

Look for the production version of the Acura RDX to launch in late 2018.