The 2016 RDX carries forward the sleek, aerodynamically efficient body design of 2015 RDX but with numerous upgrades, including restyled front and rear fasciae, a restyled front grille, the application of Acura’s signature Jewel Eye™ LED headlights, and LED taillights with light-pipe design. All models also receive new wheel designs, a split 5-spoke design for all grades except the new line-topping Advanced Package, which gets a machined alloy wheel with painted grey inserts.
The 2016 RDX also benefits from the significant changes made to the front end and underbody panels of the 2013 model, which yield a 5.8-percent improvement in coefficient of drag (Cd) compared to the first-generation RDX. The more sculpted appearance is complemented by a low hood line that improves forward visibility while a high eye point for the driver and front passenger further improve outward visibility and add to a sense of confidence and control.
Exterior mirrors have compact housings that improve the A-pillar area visibility, and the driver’s expanded view mirror provides even better outward visibility thanks to a new mirror element that incorporates a convex shape at the outer edge to help a driver survey typical driver’s side blind spot areas.
Door dimensions were selected to enhance the RDX’s primary mission as a driver’s vehicle. When compared to the previous-generation RDX, the front doors open 4-degrees further while the rear door openings are 1.4 inches wider. At the rear, the back hatch affords a significantly wider opening (6.5-inches wider) and incorporates power-actuated opening.
A revised doorsill design with an improved step-over angle allows for easier ingress and egress. When the doors are open, the side-sill garnish covering the rocker panel creates a more direct pathway to the ground when entering or exiting the vehicle compared to the previous generation RDX. The end result is less step-over distance for better comfort and a reduction in the likelihood of leg contact with the side of the vehicle.
Compared to the previous-generation RDX, the current model offers 1.8-inches of additional underbody ground clearance and generous angles of incidence (17.2-degree approach angle, 22.0-degree departure angle) pay dividends with steep driveways or off-road driving.
Body Construction
The RDX makes good use of its rigid, lightweight and tightly sealed body design, which improves ride and handling as well as interior noise levels. Significant improvements versus the previous-generation model include strengthened front bulkhead, front and rear wheel arches, A, B, C and D-pillars and body posts.
A rigid body structure enables designers to maintain tight body-panel fit tolerances, tune the suspension for precise ride and handling, help keep the ride rattle-free, provide long-term durability and generate high levels of crash protection for the occupants.
For greater steering precision and handling stability, RDX engineers paid particular attention to improving body rigidity around the front and rear suspension. These reinforcements are comprised of side-to-side bracing behind and above the firewall and inside the tailgate area. The increased use of high strength steel along with body design improvements yield a significant improvement in vehicle rigidity— an 11-percent improvement in bending along with a 24-percent improvement in torsional rigidity compared to the previous-generation RDX. With specific regard to the chassis, design and metallurgy improvements applied to the new floating-style front subframe assembly generate a 142-percent increase in torsional rigidity while the rigidity of the rear subframe increases by 25-percent.
Polygonal-shaped frame members (that are designed to disperse and absorb forces in a collision) are located behind the front bumper beam. These high-strength steel frame members send collision forces upward and rearward where they can be absorbed by the main body structure. In a side impact, large longitudinal high-tensile steel side sills (extending front to rear underneath the vehicle) along with lateral high strength steel cross members help absorb crash energy.
In the event of a rear collision, polygonal-shaped high-tensile steel frame members direct the loads forward and outward. These rear frame members also use a “wave shape” design that provides high strength, yet deforms controllably in a collision.
To address the federal government’s FMVSS 216 standard for roof crush resistance, the RDX body incorporates several new structural enhancements (versus the 2012 model) such as increased used of high strength steel and hot stamping technology in the roof and side pillar areas. As a result, top governmental (NHTSA) and insurance (IIHS) test ratings are expected.
Significant measures to reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) throughout the body improve interior quietness and ride quality compared to the previous RDX. To achieve this improvement, the RDX has better suspension isolation properties, additional noise insulation and more aerodynamic features including redesigned underbody covers.
High Strength Steel
The use of varying grades of high strength steel in the construction of the RDX unit body is key to its stiffness, driving character and performance in a collision. HSS780 grade steel is used in the “box” section of the front, side and rear frame members located at the bottom of the body. Additional high strength steel (HSS780 and HSS590) is used in other areas under the floor, along with in the A- and B-pillars and roof rails.
For strength, further increased use of high strength steel (56-percent versus 47-percent used on the previous generation) not only provides increased strength at a lower weight, but generates a more rigid body for reduced NVH.
Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)
The city is a challenging environment and a great test of a vehicle’s NVH. Varied street surfaces, potholes and other navigational hazards mean the body structure (together with tire and suspension tuning) must address a wide range of NVH issues.
Engineering rigid front and rear suspension mounting points is key to achieving low NVH within the RDX. The low amount of road noise entering the cabin allows for easy conversation between the driver and passengers. Acura internal testing measured the RDX during normal city driving speeds and found the RDX to be at the top of class with regards to quietness.
Hood
All 2016 RDX models feature a new hydraulically operated hood damper, eliminating the manually operated prop rod on 2015 and earlier models.
Tailgate
A power-operated tailgate was added for the 2013 model year (as part of the available Technology Package) and has been made standard equipment on all 2016 RDX models. The power tailgate can be operated via the remote key fob, from a dashboard mounted button located to the left of the steering wheel, or by the use of an electric tailgate opening switch in place of a traditional outside handle. The location of the motor is in the D-pillar (instead of in the roof) of the RDX, which allows for increased rear cargo area. The tailgate can also be opened and closed manually.
Glass
To further quell road and wind noise entering the cabin, the RDX uses thicker side glass than the previous model. The front windows are 4.0 mm thick (previously 3.5mm), the rear windows are now 3.5 mm thick (previous were 3.1 mm), and all the door glass is tinted to reduce eye strain along with the sun load (and temperature build-up) on the inside of the vehicle.
Headlight Integration Windshield Wipers
The RDX features a headlight integration windshield wiper system that helps improve visibility of the RDX during inclement weather. When the headlights are in Auto mode during daylight hours, if the windshield wipers swipe more than five times the headlights are automatically turned on to improve visibility. However, the interior instrument lights do not dim (as they normally do at night when the headlights are on) because of the available daylight. If the rain or snow subsides and the wipers are turned off, the headlights automatically turn off.
Rain-Sensing Wipers
RDX models with the Advance Package include rain-sensing wipers that automatically activate if water is detected on the windshield.
Power Windows
The RDX has power-operated windows for each of the four doors. The front door windows incorporate a 1-touch auto up/down button and have an integrated auto-reverse feature. Power window operation is retained for 10 minutes after the ignition is turned off, or until the front doors are opened.
Power Moonroof
A large power moonroof with auto-reverse function can be opened or closed with one touch of the ceiling-mounted switch. A timer allows the moonroof to be operated for 10 minutes after the ignition is shut off or until the doors are opened. The flush-fitting glass panel of the moonroof reduces air turbulence and wind noise, and an inside-mounted sliding shade is provided to block the sunlight.
Exterior Mirrors
A sleek exterior mirror design that maximizes the viewing area while minimizing the size of the mirror housing provides good outward visibility. Both the driver- and passenger-side mirrors are heated, and both mirrors feature an auto-tilt feature when the transmission is placed in Reverse.
Included in the Advance Packages, the auto-dimming driver’s side mirror helps reduce glare during nighttime driving, especially from the headlights of following vehicles.
The RDX also features an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror on the driver-side door. As required by law, the main area of the mirror uses a traditional flat reflective plane on the inner portion of the mirror (that is closest to the door), while the outer portion of the mirror uses a convex element to provide a broader field of view. The convex portion of the mirror generates an additional 6.5 degrees of visibility that can assist the driver in detecting other vehicles that might not have otherwise been seen in a traditional side mirror. 2016 RDX models with Advance Package feature a new auto-dimming driver’s side mirror.
Jewel Eye™ LED Headlights
Acura’s signature Jewel Eye™ LED headlights give the 2016 RDX an advanced appearance while producing superior down-the-road illumination. The headlights utilize an array of high-intensity LED lamps to deliver outstanding light distribution, distant irradiation performance and light characteristics with a wavelength close to the human eye’s luminosity curve. With five “Jewel Eye” lights per headlight, the LED lights provide improved down the road visibility compared to HID and halogen headlights.
On each side of the RDX, the low beams consist of three LED lights, while the innermost LED lights are utilized for high beams. The daytime running light (DRL) function utilizes all five lenses illuminated by LED’s that are clearly and dramatically visible even in bright sunlight. Altogether, they create a dramatic and distinctive appearance with superior lighting capability.
Light distribution
Both the low and separate high beam LED headlights offer outstanding performance in all nighttime driving conditions, including highway, winding roads, intersections, and in inclement weather conditions. The result is that the driver can see further with uniformity, making high-speed nighttime driving easier and less fatiguing.A summary of LED benefits include:
- Outstanding light distribution that surpasses competitors
- Excellent distant illumination performance
- Clear illumination of the road surface and white lines
- High visibility of the entire visible color spectrum (white, red, green, blue and yellow) compared to HID and halogen headlights
- Response time when switching between low and high beam is shortened
- Light congruity is improved between low and high beams
Power savings
Using just 65 watts total, the RDX’s LED headlights use 41-percent less power than traditional halogen headlights, contributing to the RDX’s overall operating efficiency.Long lasting
Besides producing better light characteristics with lower energy usage, LED headlights are longer lasting. With an estimated life expectancy of 10,000 hours, the LED headlights are projected to last five times longer than HID headlights and 10 times longer than traditional halogen headlight bulbs — contributing to less frequent replacement and potential associated cost savings. Further, their compact packaging allow for an improved aerodynamic frontal design.
LED Taillights
The 2016 RDX also features new LED taillights, which are brighter than traditional incandescent-bulb taillights with a longer projected lifespan. Use of LEDs allows the addition of a “light pipe” styling element extending across the top of the lenses.
Parking Sensors
The 2016 RDX with Advance Packages integrates new parking sensors, located on the front and rear bumpers (4 front and 4 rear). The sensors use ultrasonic wave technology to detect nearby obstacles. If an object is detected, the system will sound an audible alert and displays a warning in the upper display.
Alert sound characteristics change depending on how close the vehicle is to the object. The system starts with slow intermittent beeps when an object is first detected, and progresses to quick intermittent beeps as the vehicle moves closer. The system will sound a continuous beep when the vehicle is within a few inches of the object.
Note that the parking sensors cannot detect all obstacles, and that the driver is always responsible for making sure the path is clear when operating the vehicle.
Keyless Access System with Smart Entry
The RDX features Acura’s Keyless Access System as standard equipment. The system lets the RDX owner gain access to the vehicle without having to unlock it with the remote transmitter or a conventional key. The Keyless Access System remote has a unique digital identity and the RDX can be unlocked when the driver pulls one of the front door handles while the remote in his/her possession.
Each time the driver’s door is opened (even if it is already unlocked), the system identifies one of two driver remotes and then automatically sets a multitude of features to a profile preset by that driver. Profile items able to be set include: driver’s seat, outside mirrors, climate control, audio system (and audio system presets) and select navigation system settings. In the event both owners (each with their own coded key fob) approach the vehicle at the same time, the RDX will set the vehicle preferences of the Keyless Access Remote that approaches the driver side door. Once the driver has opened the door and is seated, the Keyless Access System allows the RDX to be started by pushing the Engine Start/Stop button (while pressing the brake pedal) — no longer needed is the insertion (and twisting) of a traditional ignition key.
When leaving the RDX, a press of the soft-touch button on outside of the door handle simultaneously locks all the doors. Alternatively, a press of the Lock button on the Keyless Access Remote will also lock all the doors. The Keyless Access System will not allow the transmitter fob to be locked in the interior of the RDX. When carrying the fob (or if all doors are unlocked), the rear hatch can be opened by pressing a button located on the RDX’s tailgate.
The Keyless Access System also features a unique “quick vent” feature (activated by pressing the Keyless Access Remote “unlock” button two times and then holding it) that automatically lowers all side windows and opens the power moonroof to quickly vent built-up interior heat. In addition, turning the key in the driver’s door key cylinder to the “lock” position twice (and then holding it the second time), simultaneously closes all open windows and the moonroof.
Built-in Key
When the remote battery is low, the RDX will signal the driver to bring key fob closer to the Start Button for ignition, and the MID will display that the key fob battery is low. A mechanical key is built into the remote fob and provides a back up to enter vehicle in the event that the Keyless Access Remote battery should fail.
Remote Engine Start
Remote engine start is standard equipment on the 2016 RDX with Advance Package. The RDX engine can be started remotely so that the engine is warmed up and the cabin is either heated or cooled appropriately by the time you arrive. The engine can be started remotely using the two-way keyless access remote from distances up to 328 feet (100 meters) from the vehicle.
- The climate control will automatically set to 72 degrees, preparing the RDX interior to be close to the driver’s desired temperature setting.
- In cold temperatures, defrost will already be working to clear the windshield and even the seat heaters may be activated.
- LED lights on the remote inform the user of the RDX ignition status.
- Wipers, audio and lighting are disengaged during remote start period, though the security system remains active.
- Only when the RDX detects the remote inside the car can it be driven away.
Paint Colors
The 2016 Acura RDX is available in seven exterior colors. All paint choices (3 pearl and 4 metallic) are topped with a durable clear-coat finish that resists scratching and the effects of urban pollutants.
RDX Exterior Accessories
The 2016 RDX can we equipped with an array of exterior accessories. When installed at the time of vehicle purchase, the accessories are covered by Acura’s 4-year/50,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty.
- 18-inch Diamond-Cut aluminum alloy wheels
- Wheel locks
- Sport running boards
- Advance running boards
- Rear bumper appliqué
- Engine block heater
- Roof rails
- Roof rail crossbars
- Ski attachment
- Snowboard attachment
- Surfboard attachment
- Roof-mount bike attachment
- Kayak attachment
- Short roof box
- Trailer hitch
- Trailer hitch ball
- Door edge protection film
- Body side molding
- Chrome lower door trim
- Splash guard set
- Moonroof visor
- LED fog lights
- Spare tire kit