Acura RDX V6

The 2018 Acura RDX V6 gets 279 horsepower, 23 mpg, and is one of the few compact SUVs to come standard with a V6 engine.
Written by John Pickhaver
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
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If you want the horsepower of a full-size SUV but want it in a crossover luxury package, the 2018 Acura RDX is the vehicle for you. This sport utility vehicle houses a smooth but powerful 279-hp engine and can reach 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds.
With Acura being the luxury brand of Nissan, you get the reliability and safety you’ve come to accept from the Japanese automaker which makes the RDX an ideal choice for your daily commute. Safety and reliability don’t come at the expense of high performance. From 2012 to 2018, the RDX packed a smooth V6 engine under the hood, giving it a bit of edge over its in-class competitors. 
There’s more to the RDX than just a high-performing engine.
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2018 Acura RDX V6

Starting price:$31,930
Engine: 3.5 L V6
Horsepower: 279 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque: 252 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
0 to 60: 6 seconds
With the 2018 RDX V6, Acura took a medium-sized SUV and outfitted it with a full-size 3.5L V6 engine—making for a smoother, more powerful driving experience
Available in seven sophisticated colors from Fathom Blue Pearl to Kona Coffee Metallic, the RDX features 18-inch wheels, a stylish 3D-inspired grille, and several luxury features. 
Some of these notable features of the RDX include: 
  • AcuraWatch Plus Package: This gives you state-of-the-art driver-assist technology that can protect you from getting in a frontal crash. Note you’ll need to upgrade a trim level for this feature. 
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control: Along with leatherette upholstery and heated front seats, the RDX’s climate control system makes for a comfortable ride. 
  • Infotainment: Standard RDX models come with a central display screen on the dashboard. Connected to it are a USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Pandora compatibility, iPod integration, MP3/auxiliary input jack, and a seven-speaker audio system.

How’s the fuel economy?

The RDX is not going to be the most fuel-efficient car on the road today, but it does well compared to other vehicles in its class. The RDX gets just 19 mpg in the city, however, it does climb up to 29 mpg on the highway, which gives it a combined mpg of 23. 

Which Acura RDX models have the V6?

The good news is all the 2018 Acura RDX trims have V6 models. Just don’t expect to find a V6 in the latest models. Acura went back to a four-cylinder engine in 2019. If a brand-new car with a V6 is what you want, check out the
Acura MDX

How fast is the Acura RDX V6? 

Despite its powerful V6 engine, you won’t hit racecar speed in the RDX, but you can still reach 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. Some of its competitors may achieve that metric sooner, but the RDX’s top speed of 149 mph exceeds many in its class, like the
BMW X3
, which maxes out at 130 mph.
Key Takeaway The V6 engine gives the Acura a smooth and comfortable ride. While it’s not the most fuel-efficient car, it still gets more mpg than its competitors—and it’s faster, too!
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Which is better: RDX AcuraWatch Plus or Technology & AcuraWatch Plus?

The RDX AcuraWatch Plus or RDX Technology & AcuraWatch Plus are pretty similar to one another. Like all RDX trims, they come equipped with a V6 engine, as well as several dazzling features you’d expect from a luxury brand. Both have power-adjustable heated seats, leather upholstery, and a moonroof. 
The Technology & AcuraWatch Plus might set you back an additional $4,000 for some more tech features that include a second monitor and superior speaker system.
So, which version of the RDX V6 is better? While the $4,000 price increase is a lot to take on, the Technology & AcuraWatch Plus is still less expensive than its BMW or Lexus counterparts. If you want the ultimate luxury experience Nissan can deliver, spring for the Technology & AcuraWatch Plus or even its highest trim: the Advance Package.
On the other hand, if you’re trying to stay on a strict budget and you don’t need premium features, stick with the RDX AcuraWatch or base model to save some serious cash. 
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How to find affordable Acura RDX insurance

No matter which RDX you drive, make sure you have a quality car insurance policy to go with your luxury vehicle. That’s where
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FAQs

Yes—the 2018 RDX comes standard with a 3.5L V6 engine. All models and trims from 2012 to 2018 come standard with a V6. You’ll have to settle for a four-cylinder engine for any models before or after that time.
Acuras have a reputation for reliability, and the V6 engine doesn’t change that. The RDX ranks #2 out of 13 on J.D. Power Predicted Reliability Ratings for luxury compact SUVs.
All-wheel drive is standard for every 2018 RDX trim level.
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