Acura RDX 0-60 Times: Stuck in Neutral

By: Max F. Arellano / March 18, 2024

The Acura RDX 0-60 time for the current generation (2019 - present) is approximately 6.4 seconds.

This does put it squarely in line with other entry-level cars in the compact luxury SUV segment, but it's not much faster than the 1st generation of RDXs introduced 15+ years ago.

1st Generation Acura RDX 0-60 Time and Specs (2007 - 2012)

Let's start our RDX 0-60 time journey with the first generation of RDX, introduced in 2007.

While there were several packages available, they were distinguished by ancillary features that would not affect acceleration. Every tested trim had the following specs:

 
• 0-60 time: 6.8 seconds
 
• Quarter mile: 15.3 seconds
 
• Engine: 2.3 Liter turbocharged inline-4
 
• Horsepower: 40 hp @ 6,000 rpm
 
• Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
 
• Transmission: 5-speed automatic
 
• Drive Type: AWD

The first generation RDX had a 0-60 time of about 6.8 seconds when considering a variety of reports. For the time, this was actually quite quick, only half a second slower than luxury sports sedans like the Audi A5 or BMW 328i. It put it on par with other cars in its class, with the BMW X3 and the Lexus RX350 achieving similar times.

Compared to the generation that came after it, this iteration was considered to be sporty, due to its aesthetics, deft handling, and turbocharged engine which was rare in the compact luxury SUV segment at the time.

2nd Generation Acura RDX 0-60 Time and Specs (2013 - 2018)

The second generation of RDX also had only 1 engine and transmission option available, a naturally aspirated V6 paired with a six-speed automatic.

 
• 0-60 time: 6.2 seconds
 
• Quarter mile: 14.8 seconds
 
• Engine: 3.5 Liter V6
 
• Horsepower: 279 hp @ 6,200 rpm
 
• Torque: 252 lb-ft @ 4,900 rpm
 
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
 
• Drive Type: AWD

This generation of RDX marked a significant shift towards being a more luxurious and comfort-oriented vehicle, moving away from the sportier, turbocharged character of its predecessor.

The interior saw considerable improvements in materials and comfort, aiming to provide a more premium experience.

Acura also focused on enhancing the RDX's appeal through a more conservative design approach and the introduction of advanced technology and safety features, catering to a broader audience seeking luxury and reliability in a compact SUV package.

Not everyone was a fan of the changes, as the RDXs of this era were often described as competent but soulless, performing well and providing sufficient features, but not being fun to drive and having an uninspired design, especially when compared to its competitors.

That said, RDX acceleration peaked with this generation, with most reports putting the second-gen RDX 0-60 time at 6.2 seconds, which can be attributed to its horsepower output that even the 3rd generation couldn't match.

3rd Generation Acura RDX 0-60 Time and Specs ( 2019 - Present)

The RDX continues to only offer one engine option in its latest generation, which again saw an engine swap, this time bringing back the turbocharged I-4.

 
• 0-60 time: 6.4 seconds
 
• Quarter mile: 14.9 seconds
 
• Engine: 2.0 Liter turbocharged inline-4
 
• Horsepower: 272 hp @ 6,500 rpm
 
• Torque: 280 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm
 
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic
 
• Drive Type: AWD
 
• Price: $44,050 (2024)

The new engine decreases the horsepower from the previous generations, which helps account for the inferior 6.4 second 0-60 time. This is somewhat disappointing as we are now 17 years since the first generation was introduced and the 0-60 time has only improved by a few fractions for a second.

Its primary rivals indeed offer similar acceleration metrics, but only in their base models. For example, the Audi Q5 TFSI has a 0-60 time of 6.8 seconds, slightly slower than the RDX.

However, the Q5 also offers an alternate powertrain that boosts its 0-60 time to 5.6 seconds, and it is not significantly more expensive, costing just $48,000. The RDX has luxury packages that are more expensive by comparison and bring no such performance boost.

Acceleration aside, the 3rd-generation has been praised for improved driveability, with the reintroduction of the SH-AWD allowing for much better cornering.

Conclusion

The 6.4 second 0-60 time of the current RDX is more or less in line with its competitor's entry-level trims. Its performance has been stagnant over its lifecycle, however, it's still shattering sales records, so its target audience doesn't seem to care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does the Acura RDX go from 0 to 60?

The Acura RDX's 0 to 60 mph acceleration time varies by generation, but the latest model, the 3rd generation RDX, clocks in at approximately 6.4 seconds. This figure is based on the version equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine and all-wheel drive.

Is the Acura RDX fast?

The RDX is fast relative to your run-of-the-mill commuter vehicle, offering brisk acceleration that competes well within the compact luxury SUV segment.  With a 0 to 60 mph time of around 6.4 seconds for the latest models, it delivers a spirited driving experience that balances performance with luxury.

What is the 0 to 60 time for the Acura RDX 2024?

The 0 to 60 time for the 2024 Acura RDX remains consistent with the previous years at approximately 6.4 seconds. This performance metric applies to models equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine and all-wheel drive, as there have been no significant changes to its powertrain.

What is the fastest Acura 0-60?

The title for the fastest Acura, based on 0 to 60 mph acceleration time, often goes to the Acura NSX. The latest model of the NSX can achieve 0 to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds, making it the fastest vehicle in Acura's lineup.

What Acura SUV is the fastest?

The title of the fastest SUV in Acura's lineup goes to the MDX Type-S, which boasts an impressive 0-60 time of just 5.7 seconds. This performance is a result of the MDX Type-S's potent powertrain, which includes a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine.

This engine is capable of producing a substantial output, delivering horsepower and torque figures that significantly enhance its acceleration capabilities.