Acura unveiled the updated 2022 RDX at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. The luxury compact SUV, a popular choice in the segment, now sports more tech features and new trim combination options. Introduced in 2006, the RDX is one of Acura's best-selling models, with over half a million sold since its release. Additionally, an all-new 2022 acura rdx PMC Edition will be available at launch.
Described as the most refined and comfortable RDX to date, buyers can now option A-Spec models with the Advance package or Technology package. Updates across all RDX trim levels include sportier exterior styling, a quieter cabin, and a retuned suspension. The 2022 RDX will continue to come powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-four producing 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, funneled through a 10-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard while all-wheel drive (or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive—SH-AWD—in Acura parlance) is a $2,000 option.
All RDX models have a new front fender liner and an enhanced Active Sound Control system to help block out external noises and increase tranquility. The engine cold idle speed decreases from 1,100 rpm to 900 rpm, and the front-wheel-drive configuration now has a lower torque rod to suppress engine vibrations. Further reducing road and wind noise, the Technology package adds a new insulator in the D-pillar, thicker carpet padding, and acoustic glass. It gets a dense insulation pad in the dashboard as well to minimize engine noise.
The Advance package boasts the quietest cabin in RDX history by adding more insulation to the dash, under the hood, and over the drivetrain tunnel. The rear doors are equipped with acoustic glass and have an additional sound insulator, which the ceiling also received. Its cargo bins now feature insulation and extra sound-deadening materials in the rear hatch inner covering.
New for 2022 is an Orchid leather option, available on A-Spec and Advance models. An upscale bronze finish is available exclusively on RDX models equipped with the Saddle Brown interior, and the Advance package adds open-pore wood trim. Another interior update, the A-Spec has a new flat-bottom steering wheel. Aluminum trim on the doors, dash, and center console comes standard. In the RDX A-Spec, contrast stitching, suede inserts, and metallic trim throughout highlight the cabin.
This RDX has a broader and more aggressive appearance. Updates to the front fascia amount to a new Diamond Pentagon grille with a slimmer surround and larger—and functional—side vents. A reshaped rear fascia with cutouts for the new rectangular dual exhaust finishers and upgraded diffuser add appeal. A-Spec models get large diameter round exhaust finishers in gloss black. LED fog lights are standard on A-Spec and Advance grades. Depending on RDX grade, exterior surround trim, accents, and body side molding are gloss black or chrome.
The 2022 RDX is available in either 19-inch or 20-inch wheels featuring various designs and finishes; the Advance trim features a new sporty 19-inch wheel design. Combining the A-Spec with the Advance package adds 20-inch wheels finished in Shark Gray. Exterior paint options include a new Liquid Carbon Metal available on all models and Phantom Violet Pearl on Technology and Advance packages.
The 7.0-inch instrument cluster now has a digital speedometer. New tech for 2022 includes standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. LED ambient lighting, Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging, and a rear camera washer are available in the Technology package. Advance models gain remote engine start with expanded range, power-folding mirrors, and a 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area.
Acura's safety suite, AcuraWatch, now includes enhanced blind spot information with lane change assist, rear seatbelt reminder, and front and rear low-speed braking control. Aiming to increase its future crash safety ratings, the 2022 RDX comes equipped with new collision technologies, including outboard seatbelts with pre-tensioning and load-limiting technology for rear passengers.
Following the success of the Thermal Orange Pearl RDX PMC Edition, of which 360 units hit production, Acura is releasing a more exclusive PMC Edition limited to 200 examples. Like its 600-hp NSX Type S stablemate, the new RDX PMC Edition will be handbuilt at the Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio. The 2022 PMC Edition features the optional Orchid Milano leather upholstery and comes finished in Long Beach Blue Pearl.
On the outside, it gets Berlina Black 20-inch wheels, a gloss-black Diamond Pentagon grille, a body-color grille surround, and round exhaust outlets that feature a unique dark chrome finish. A number of exterior components are painted gloss black including the roof, bodyside moldings, door handles, side mirrors, and badges. PMC Edition models also come equipped with everything in the Advance package.
The refreshed 2022 acura rdx arrives in showrooms nationwide starting this coming November. As of this writing, Acura has not released updated pricing for the RDX model range, including the PMC Edition. The outgoing base model RDX had a starting price of $38,445, with the top-of-line Advance trim level with AWD going for $49,245. Earlier this year, we drove the bright orange RDX PMC Edition, a model which carried a price tag of $52,995.