When it comes to luxury crossover SUVs, it’s hard not to think about the Acura RDX. In a class that hasn’t traditionally had many luxury options, crossover SUVs are becoming more and more popular and have thus been getting the luxury treatment from different automakers.

The Acura RDX has been in production since 2006, and in its current generation since 2018, so what can we expect from the 2021 model? There’s plenty to be excited about. 

CNET’s review of the 2021 Acura RDX

In a recent review by CNET, the 2021 Acura RDX was put through its paces and rated accordingly. Starting under the hood, the 2021 RDX is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that gets 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.

Drivers have control over the RDX’s driving mode, with options such as Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport Plus, allowing you to adjust your driving experience as the elements outside the vehicle change. The 2021 RDX is also available with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive upgrade, as opposed to the standard front-wheel drive.

In the safety department, the 2021 Acura RDX is not lacking. The RDX comes standard with the AcuraWatch suite of driver assistance features, including a forward-collision warning, braking assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features include blind-spot monitoring, a rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors. 

In the cabin, you won’t be let down by a lack of technology that we’ve come to expect in luxury vehicles. Base models come standard with a 10.2-inch HD display panel, which utilizes a split-screen functionality to allow you the ability to truly multitask (safely, of course!).

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, allowing you the freedom to access all of your favorite apps right from your vehicle. 

What’s new for 2021?

While there’s a lot to be excited about with the new Acura RDX, it’s a bit lackluster when you compare it to its predecessor. Not much has changed since 2019, when the RDX got its most recent redesign. And that’s alright, because drivers still love everything it has to offer.

You will see some styling changes with the RDX’s A-Spec package, giving the exterior a sportier appearance than you might be used to, but staying sleeker than ever. Other than that, however, the 2021 RDX is largely the same as previous years.

The 2021 Acura RDX: pros and cons

The biggest thing to love about the 2021 Acura RDX is how many features it comes standard with. Compared to its competitors, the RDX comes with more standard safety and technology features than many others. And while there’s still room to add on extra features, you won’t feel like you’re lacking if you stick with the base model.

The biggest con, however, has to be the True Touchpad Interface controller. Instead of having a traditional touchscreen control panel, like most vehicles, Acura has created a True Touchpad system that allows you to control the interface similar to how you would navigate a laptop.

Instead of touching the screen, you swipe your finger around a small trackpad located in front of the center console. Many drivers, as well as CNET’s reviewers, have reported that the True Touchpad has a steep learning curve and that it takes a lot of practice to get the hang of it.

If you’re looking to upgrade to a luxury SUV this year, the Acura RDX is an excellent option that will get you a lot of bang for your buck. It’s less expensive than its competitors like the Audi Q5, Lexus RX, and the Mercedes-Benz GLC, but includes many of the same features.