2016 Acura RDX Revealed at Chicago Auto Show

You could say Acura’s RDX is dressed to the nines. Just revealed in Chicago, this compact crossover has been freshened for 2016, gaining things like LED headlamps, new driver-assistance features and even more horsepower.

But that passé phrase might be better used to describe this vehicle’s drivetrain. The RDX gains three additional forward ratios thanks to a new nine-speed automatic transmission. That gearbox is paired to an updated 3.5-liter V6 engine that’s been goosed for six extra horses and one more lb-ft of torque. These figures total 279 and 252, respectively. Enhancing drivability, its torque curve has been broadened as well.

When you include cylinder deactivation these under-hood changes add up to enhanced fuel economy. Both front- and all-wheel-drive RDXs gains one mile per gallon on their highway scores. The most economical version now stickers at 29 MPG on the interstate.

Of course Acura designers tweaked this vehicle’s styling. It features LED projector headlamps, a trait they carried around back. The taillights are also of the light-emitting-diode variety. Front and rear the fascias have been reworked and there are new wheels to choose from.

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