2019 Acura RDX Undercuts Rivals on Value

When the redesigned 2019 Acura RDX goes on sale Friday, it'll start at $38,295, including destination, coming in lower than key luxury compact SUV competitors that start north of $40,000. The RDX's entry price is for a front-wheel-drive model; opting for Acura's sporty all-wheel system on any trim level adds $2,000.

Related: Hands On With the 2019 Acura RDX's Controversial Media Touchpad

By comparison, among front- or rear-wheel-drive entry models of luxury compacts you might have on your shopping list, the 2019 BMW X3 start at $42,990 with destination, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC at $41,045 and the 2018 Lexus RX 350 at $44,265. A 2018 Audi Q5. with standard all-wheel drive starts at $42,475. Compare their features and prices here.

The RDX's pricing also does not climb as fast through the trim levels and option packages as some rivals that can quickly blow well past $50,000. An RDX with the Technology Package starts at $41,495, and the top-of-the-line Advance Package starts at $46,395. Available upscale features, depending on the trim level, include 16-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, a 10.5-inch full-color head-up display, 16-channel Acura ELS Studio 3D premium audio, a 360-degree camera system, rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitor.

All 2019 RDX models replace the previous V-6 with a 272-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder mated to a 10-speed automatic. Standard features on the base model now include the AcuraWatch safety and driver-aid technology package with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control; these features are optional on many rivals. The entry RDX also has a panoramic moonroof, LED headlights and a 10.2-inch display with Acura's new touchpad controller.

The RDX also offers a sportier A-Spec appearance option, based on the RDX with Technology Package, that adds 20-inch wheels, gloss-black exterior accents, larger exhaust finishers and available interior upgrades including an available red or black leather with black Ultrasuede seat surfaces.

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