New Acura RDX Near Westmont IL
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Acura RDX in Westmont, IL
What trims are available on the current RDX?
The current 3rd-generation RDX runs base, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance trims, all with the 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 paired with 10-speed automatic transmission. FWD is standard on most trims; SH-AWD is available across the lineup and standard on certain trims. There is no Type S variant of the RDX in current production.
What is the RDX's powertrain?
The RDX runs a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 making 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with Acura's 10-speed automatic. Strong torque arrives early in the rev range, making the RDX feel quicker than spec sheets suggest. Fuel economy runs 24 mpg combined on FWD and 23 mpg combined on SH-AWD - competitive in the compact luxury SUV segment.
How does the RDX compare to MDX?
RDX is two-row, 5-passenger, compact luxury SUV. MDX is three-row, 6 or 7-passenger, midsize luxury SUV. RDX is shorter (187 in vs 198 in), lighter, and more efficient. MDX adds the third row, more cargo space, V6 power (290 hp standard / 355 hp Type S), and more interior space generally. RDX starts mid-$40s; MDX starts low-$50s. For 5-passenger families and active couples, RDX. For 6-7 passenger families, MDX.
What is the True Touchpad Interface?
The current RDX uses Acura's True Touchpad Interface for infotainment - a touchpad on the center console that controls a screen mounted higher on the dashboard. Unlike a standard touchpad that uses relative motion, True Touchpad uses absolute mapping - the touchpad surface maps directly to the screen positions. Most users adapt within a few days. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included.
Should I get FWD or SH-AWD?
For Chicagoland buyers, SH-AWD adds genuine winter capability beyond what conventional AWD systems deliver - up to 70% of available torque to the rear axle and 100% of that rear torque routable to either rear wheel. The fuel economy penalty is 1 mpg combined. The cost premium varies by trim. For drivers regularly facing winter snow events on I-294, I-88, or DuPage County roads, SH-AWD pays off in confidence. For pure highway commuters on cleared pavement, FWD with quality tires works.
RDX Configuration Questions?
Configuring an RDX involves several decisions - trim level (base, Technology, A-Spec, Advance), FWD versus SH-AWD, color choices, and equipment package combinations.
If you have specifics in mind or want to talk through trade-offs before scheduling a test drive, our team can walk through it.
Reach out and we will get into the details.
The Acura RDX at McGrath Acura of Westmont
The RDX has been Acura's best-selling model for years, and the current 3rd generation (launched 2019) refined a formula that already worked. Compact luxury SUV pricing, two-row 5-passenger seating, 2.0L turbo with 10-speed automatic, available SH-AWD, AcuraWatch standard, and a tech-forward interior with True Touchpad infotainment combine into a vehicle that targets the heart of the luxury crossover market. Competitors include BMW X3, Audi Q5, Lexus NX, Mercedes GLC, Volvo XC60, Cadillac XT5, Genesis GV70, and Lincoln Corsair - one of the most competitive segments in the entire luxury market.
For McGrath Acura of Westmont in Westmont, the RDX is a high-volume model that consistently moves quickly across all trims. Pricing starts in the mid-$40s on base RDX FWD and reaches the mid-$50s on RDX Advance SH-AWD with options. As a 20-time Acura Precision Team award winner, our RDX inventory typically covers all trim levels with rotation on color and SH-AWD versus FWD configuration. For DuPage County buyers across Westmont, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Naperville, Lisle, Burr Ridge, and the broader Chicagoland area, RDX hits the practical sweet spot of luxury SUV ownership without three-row family commitment.
- 3rd-generation RDX (2019+) with mature platform and updates
- Two-row, 5-passenger compact luxury SUV
- 2.0L turbo with 10-speed automatic across all trims
- FWD or SH-AWD available across all trims
- Pricing mid-$40s base to mid-$50s Advance SH-AWD with options
For shoppers cross-shopping size up to three-row, our new MDX inventory covers that segment. For size down to subcompact luxury SUV, our new ADX inventory covers Acura's newest entry. For sedan alternatives, our new Integra inventory includes the compact 5-door liftback option.
Powertrain, SH-AWD, and Driving Character
The 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 in the RDX makes 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque - figures that put it ahead of base BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Lexus NX 250 in horsepower while matching or exceeding their torque numbers. Turbo torque arrives low in the rev range, which makes the RDX feel quick in real driving even though acceleration numbers are mid-pack for the segment. The 10-speed automatic handles shifts smoothly with sport modes that hold gears longer for performance driving. Fuel economy at 24 mpg combined (FWD) is competitive; 23 mpg combined (SH-AWD) is the trade-off for the AWD capability.
SH-AWD on the RDX is a real differentiator versus competitors at this price point. Most luxury crossovers in the segment offer AWD, but few use torque-vectoring rear differentials that can shift torque side-to-side between rear wheels. SH-AWD can move up to 70% of available torque to the rear axle and 100% of that rear torque to either rear wheel, which improves both rainy-pavement traction and dry-pavement cornering grip. For Chicagoland winter driving on I-294, I-88, or back roads through DuPage and Kane Counties, SH-AWD delivers tangible advantage on slippery surfaces.
- 2.0L turbo I4: 272 hp, 280 lb-ft torque
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- FWD or SH-AWD across all trims
- SH-AWD: torque vectoring to either rear wheel
- 24 mpg combined FWD, 23 mpg combined SH-AWD
For comprehensive maintenance support, our Acura-certified service department handles RDX maintenance including SH-AWD service intervals, transmission service, and turbo-related maintenance.
Trim Levels and Equipment Differences
Base RDX includes AcuraWatch standard, leather upholstery (Acura calls it Milano leather), heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate, panoramic moonroof, 19-inch wheels, and the True Touchpad Interface with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. The base trim hits the entry price for the segment with most of the core luxury equipment. Technology trim adds heated steering wheel, navigation, ELS Studio premium audio (10 speakers), additional driver assistance features, and a few interior upgrades. Technology is the most common starting trim for buyers who care about audio quality and navigation.
A-Spec adds sport-themed appearance treatment - 20-inch dark wheels, sport seats with Ultrasuede inserts, A-Spec interior badging, sport pedals, unique exterior accents, and stainless steel trim elements. The A-Spec is appearance-focused; the powertrain stays identical to other RDX trims. Advance is the top trim with the most equipment - ventilated front seats, head-up display, surround-view camera, 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D premium audio, ambient lighting upgrades, premium leather, heated rear seats, and additional ADAS features. Advance buyers get the maximum-equipment RDX experience but also push pricing toward MDX entry territory.
- Base: AcuraWatch, Milano leather, panoramic roof, True Touchpad
- Technology: heated steering, ELS Studio audio, navigation, additional ADAS
- A-Spec: sport appearance, 20-inch wheels, Ultrasuede inserts, sport pedals
- Advance: ventilated seats, head-up display, surround camera, ELS Studio 3D, ambient lighting
For pricing transparency on specific RDX trims and current incentives, contact our team. For trade-in equity, our trade-in tool provides a starting estimate; the IL trade-in tax credit caps at $10,000.
RDX Daily Use in DuPage County
RDX is sized for daily luxury SUV use in the suburban Chicago environment. Length is 187 inches - manageable in parking decks at Oakbrook Center, Yorktown Center, downtown Hinsdale parking, and similar urban-edge environments. Cargo space behind the rear seats accommodates substantial groceries, sports equipment, or two large suitcases; rear seats fold flat for larger items. Rear seat passenger space fits adults comfortably for longer drives - real improvement over the smaller BMW X3 and Audi Q5 rear seats.
For commuters running into the Loop on I-290 or down I-88 to Naperville/Aurora, the RDX delivers comfortable highway cruising with quiet cabin acoustics and effective ELS Studio audio (Technology trim and up). For Chicagoland winter conditions, SH-AWD plus quality all-season or winter tires handle nearly everything you encounter, with stability control and traction systems backing up the driver. For weekend trips - Door County, southwest Michigan, ski areas in Wisconsin, or just out to the Indiana lakes - RDX has range and capability without the size penalty of MDX.
- 187 inches length - manageable parking
- Substantial cargo capacity behind rear seats
- Rear seat fits adults comfortably for longer drives
- SH-AWD plus winter tires handle Chicagoland conditions
For shoppers also considering used RDX at lower price points, our used RDX inventory covers both 2nd and 3rd generation units with details on what to look for at each generation. Our Acura CPO inventory includes warranty-backed used RDX units for shoppers wanting manufacturer-backed coverage.
Acting on a New RDX at McGrath Acura of Westmont
RDX inventory at the dealer level is generally good across all trims. SH-AWD configurations move faster than FWD in our market - Chicagoland buyers strongly prefer AWD even at the slight fuel economy and price penalty. Color preferences vary; Apex Blue Pearl on A-Spec, Performance Red Pearl on Advance, and Platinum White Pearl across trims tend to move quickly. For specific configurations not currently in stock, factory ordering takes 6-10 weeks typical and locks current pricing.
The recommended sequence: pre-approve through our finance application so spending range is clear, schedule a test drive (or comparison drive across trims if cross-shopping), and visit ready to make decisions on trim, FWD versus SH-AWD, and color/equipment. For cross-shoppers comparing RDX A-Spec or Advance against MDX base, the price overlap is real and worth driving both to make the size-versus-equipment decision concretely. For lease shoppers, AFS lease specials on RDX vary by month - we run lease versus purchase numbers side by side.
- RDX inventory: generally good across all trims
- SH-AWD configurations turn faster than FWD
- Cross-shop RDX top trims against MDX entry trim - real price overlap
- Factory order 6-10 weeks, locks current pricing
Visit McGrath Acura of Westmont at 400 E Ogden Avenue in Westmont to drive what is currently in stock, or contact our team to discuss configurations and ordering. Browse the broader new Acura inventory for cross-segment comparison.