2007 Acura RDX Preview

Acura's Aggressor

The RDX features Acura's first turbocharged engine and competes with BMW's X3.

Acura's first compact SUV, the RDX, will feature the company's first ever turbocharged engine, a new 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder with i-VTEC, making an impressive 240 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque. It goes on sale in late summer 2006.

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Acura says the RDX combines sports-car handling, serious performance and practical utility. A Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system quickly sends power to the wheels that need it. A five-speed sequential-shift transmission can be operated via steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters.

The aggressively styled RDX offers seating for five, plus fold-down rear seats and a deep center-console storage area with enough space for a laptop. There’s also an onboard navigation system with live traffic alerts, a hands-free phone interface and DVD audio. Front, side and full-length curtain airbags are standard.

The RDX was designed specifically for the U.S. market and will be made at Honda’s assembly plant in Marysville, Ohio. The model — whose closest competitor is the BMW X3 — looks to be a niche model for those who want a utility vehicle with sporty  handling.