The pursuit of outstanding safety performance is a critical element designed into every Acura built. This focus on safety performance not only extends to the driver and passengers of the RDX, but also to the safety of occupants of other vehicles as well as the injury mitigation to pedestrians.
For Acura, equally important is addressing both active and passive safety. Active safety features can help the driver avoid a collision or mitigate its severity, and the RDX includes numerous standard active safety features, including the enhanced visibility of the Multi-View Rear Camera and Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, along with standard Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control and 4-wheel anti-lock disk brakes with Brake Assist that enhance vehicle control.
For 2016, the RDX adopts AcuraWatch™, a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies that can help drivers avoid a collision or mitigate the severity of a collision. The RDX AcuraWatch™ suite is available as a standalone option on the base RDX and RDX with Technology Package and as standard equipment on the new RDX with Advance Package. AcuraWatch™ technologies are as follows:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS)
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
The new RDX with Technology Package or Advance Package also adds Acura’s blind spot information (BSI) and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor technologies.
In the event of a collision, the RDX utilizes its advanced, energy-absorbing body structure, supplemental restraint systems (seatbelts and airbags) and strategically designed interior components to mitigate injury.
The RDX utilizes Acura’s acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure – a network of connected structural elements to help distribute and direct crash energy in a range of frontal collision scenarios, including offset and oblique impacts. This enhanced frontal crash energy management helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment and can help to more evenly disperse the forces transferred to other vehicles in a crash.
The 2016 RDX features additional engineering enhancements to the front body structure that further improve frontal collision performance, including improved performance in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) stringent 40-mph small overlap front collision test. To address the federal government’s new FMVSS 216 standard for roof crush resistance, the RDX body also incorporates structural enhancements in the roof and side pillar areas. As a result, top governmental (NHTSA) and IIHS test ratings are expected.
While ACE™ is a structural foundation for the RDX’s safety performance, its array of industry-leading passive safety technologies is equally important. The list begins with six airbags including dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags (SRS), dual-chamber front seat side airbags, and side curtain airbags for the front and outboard rear seating positions.
Safety features continue with 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, while the driver and front passenger have front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system with load limiters. The RDX offers head restraints for all seating positions. The rear seat features Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH), which permits easy attachment of up to two child seats.
Advanced Compatibility Engineering™
The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure is an exclusive body design incorporated into the RDX that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. The ACE™ design utilizes a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle. This enhanced frontal crash energy management helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment and can help to more evenly disperse the forces transferred to other vehicles in a crash. ACE™ helps maintain the structural integrity of the passenger cabin in a frontal crash. It does so by markedly improving energy distribution away from the cabin during the crash, thus allowing a more uniform absorption of impact energy. This crash energy redirection helps reduce the chance of intrusion into the passenger cabin. By doing so, ACE™ is the cornerstone engineering feature that defines much of the RDX structure.
In addition, the ACE™ design also provides benefits by increasing vehicle compatibility in frontal crashes, which can improve passenger safety when vehicles of dissimilar size, height or weight collide.
For 2016, the RDX body structure receives numerous engineering enhancements designed to further improve its performance on a wide range of collision scenarios, including small overlap frontal collisions. As a result, the 2016 RDX is anticipated to earn a top rating of GOOD in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s stringent 40-mph small overlap frontal crash test.
Rollover Protection
Another target that Acura designers felt strongly about was the RDX’s ability to withstand a rollover with the roof frame maintained, no fuel system damage, and no tailgate door-opening damage. The use of a high-strength steel safety cage helps provide the stiffness that allows the RDX to better withstand rollover forces.
In the event of a rollover, a roll-rate sensor (along with multiple G sensors) determines the rate of roll and then deploys the side curtain airbags accordingly. The system uses algorithms to continually evaluate the situation and determines whether a rollover is imminent. The roll-rate sensor and multiple G sensors calculate the angle of roll and the speed of the vehicle in order to deploy the airbags at the correct point for optimum protection. In the case of a rollover, the side curtain airbags on both sides of the vehicle will deploy. However, in the event of a sufficient side impact that does not result in a rollover, only the airbags on the impacted side of the vehicle will deploy. The airbags maintain full inflation for approximately three seconds after inflation to allow for the increased duration of a rollover accident.
Driver and Front Passenger Knee Bolsters
To help reduce the likelihood of injuries to the driver or front passenger’s legs in a frontal collision, the RDX has energy-absorbing knee bolsters. The bolsters are designed to help dissipate collision forces if the driver or front passenger’s legs should contact the lower instrument panel during a frontal collision.
Pedestrian Safety
Even though there is no current governmental requirement to do so, as part of Acura’s “Safety Through Innovation” engineering philosophy, the 2013 RDX incorporates design elements that take into account the well being of pedestrians.
Specifically, engineers optimized certain structures in the RDX front end to help absorb energy in the event of a collision with a pedestrian. Research shows that these features can dramatically improve a pedestrian’s chance of survival if struck by a moving vehicle.
Key Pedestrian Safety Features include:
- Hood designed to deform if contact is made with a pedestrian
- Energy-absorbing fender mounts and supports located under the hood
- Greater clearance between hood and engine components
- Crushable hood hinges
Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Airbag System
Dual-stage, multiple threshold front airbags (SRS) are provided for the driver and front passenger. One or both of these airbags will be deployed in the event of a sufficient frontal impact. If deployed, these airbags are capable of being inflated at different rates depending on crash severity, seatbelt usage and/or other factors. Frontal airbags are designed to supplement the seatbelts to help reduce the likelihood of head and upper body injuries in frontal crashes. A seamless dashboard cover conceals the passenger front airbag, while the driver’s front airbag is located in a small housing within the steering-wheel.
Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Airbag parameters:
- Airbag deployment characteristics are finely controlled depending on the severity of a collision, seatbelt usage and/or other factors
- The dual stage, multiple-threshold strategy applies to front airbags only and does not affect operation of front side airbags or side curtain airbags
In addition, the airbag system also uses a sensor in the seat to assess the weight of the front passenger. The front passenger airbag is shut off if the weight sensor indicates that a child or small-stature person is occupying the front seat.
Side Airbags
Side airbags mounted in the outboard area of each front seatback are designed to provide upper torso protection for front occupants in the event of a sufficient side impact.
Side Curtain Airbags
In a sufficient side impact or rollover, the RDX side curtain airbags deploy from roof-mounted modules, providing head protection for outboard occupants seated in both rows of seating. Side curtain airbags effectively cover the window area from the A-pillar back to the C-pillar. Tests show that the g-forces acting upon an outboard occupant’s head during a collision are far lower when side curtain airbags are used.
Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH)
The RDX includes a LATCH child-seat mounting system for the outboard locations of the rear seat. LATCH features built-in lower anchors and ready-to-use tether attachment points that allow compatible child safety seats to be installed without using the vehicle’s seat belt system, which can simplifies child seat installation. Up to two LATCH child seats can be installed simultaneously.
Seat Belt Load Limiters with Automatic Tensioning System
Both front seatbelts have an automatic tensioning system with load limiters that work in conjunction to help protect the driver and front passenger in a collision. The components work automatically in a 1-2 sequence. In the first few milliseconds of a sufficient collision, the tensioning system automatically tightens the front seat belts. Research has shown that seat belts that are snugly secured around the occupants provide better protection. However, if the deceleration forces rise above a predetermined threshold, the load limiter releases (in a controlled manner) a small length of seatbelt webbing to reduce the pressure on the occupant— which helps reduce the likelihood of injuries that seatbelts can cause in a severe, high-speed collision.
Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control
Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) is included as standard equipment on the 2013 RDX. By continually monitoring the vehicle’s operating parameters (such as vehicle speed, throttle position, steering angle, individual wheel speeds, lateral G-force and yaw rate), VSA® detects if the vehicle is about to experience oversteer or understeer.
To help correct either of these situations, 4-channel VSA® automatically reduces the engine’s power output as needed, and applies one or more brakes individually to help stabilize the chassis. The VSA® response is so quick that the instability may be corrected even before the driver knows that it is occurring. Traction Control is integrated into the VSA® to help the RDX accelerate smoothly on slippery surfaces. If required, Traction Control can be disabled.
Blind Spot Information (BSI)
Included in the RDX with Technology or Advance Package, the blind spot information (BSI) system uses two radar sensors to continually monitor conditions behind the vehicle and alert the driver if another vehicle is detected in close proximity — especially in the blind spot of the driver. The BSI system uses the LED indicators (mounted on the A-pillar) and an audible warning to alert the driver.
There are two warning levels: 1) If a vehicle is detected in the driver’s blind spot then the LED indicator on the incoming side illuminates; and 2) If a vehicle is detected and the turn signal is activated, the LED indicator on the incoming side blinks and a buzzer sounds three times.
To prevent false alarms while maneuvering at low speed, the BSI system is disabled below approximately 20 mph.
Rear Cross Traffic Monitor
Also included in the Technology Package and Advance Package is Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, which works in conjunction with the vehicle’s BSI radar sensors to enhance driver confidence when backing up. The system is especially useful when reversing in congested parking lots with an obstructed view from driver’s seat.
The system utilizes a pair of blind-spot radar units located in the rear bumper corners. When Reverse is selected and an approaching vehicle is detected, arrows indicating the approaching vehicles direction are shown on the 8-inch center display’s rear camera image. With the Multi-view rear camera in Normal or Wide mode, an audible chime and amber arrows warn the driver of an approaching vehicle.
AcuraWatch ™
New for the 2016 RDX is AcuraWatch™, a suite of safety and driver assistive features that includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). AcuraWatch is available as a standalone option on the base RDX and RDX with Technology Package, and is offered as standard equipment on the new RDX with Advance Package.
Adaptive Cruise Control
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) allows the driver to set a desired speed and following interval from the vehicle ahead, allowing the use of cruise control in light traffic conditions. This significantly reduces the driver stress of driving in traffic. The system uses the Millimeter Wave Radar and Monocular Camera to continually track the distance to the vehicle ahead, and then adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain the set following interval. A short, medium, long, or extra-long interval can be selected. When required, the RD-X autonomously brakes using the Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) modulator. ACC operates in the following ways in the listed circumstances:A preceding vehicle is detected in the lane ahead — decelerates automatically, if required, and then controls the following distance.
Another vehicle merges in between the RDX and the preceding vehicle — automatically switches “targets” to the nearest preceding vehicle.
The preceding vehicle exits the lane — ACC system continues at cruise-control speed previously selected by driver (25 to 90 mph).
A Multi Information Display (MID) message and audible warning alert the driver when the ACC function is activated.
Collision Mitigation Braking System ™ (CMBS)
Acura’s Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) is one of the most sophisticated driver-assistive technologies available. Integrated with FCW, the systems’ Millimeter Wave Radar unit and Monocular Camera scan traffic conditions ahead of the vehicle.When the system detects a potential collision, FCW provides visual and audible alerts to prompt the driver to take corrective actions. The visual alert appears on the Multi-Information Display (MID). CMBS takes emergency autonomous braking action to help reduce vehicle speed and eventual collision forces, and therefore to help reduce the severity of a collision if drivers don’t take corrective action on their own.
Due to the effectiveness of its sensing capabilities, the CMBS can recognize shapes and differentiate between a vehicle and a pedestrian, warning the driver in each case. A Millimeter Wave Radar unit located behind the front grille and a Monocular Camera mounted at the upper portion of the windshield is used to detect vehicles and pedestrians. The radar unit and camera work simultaneously and cooperatively to control the VSA modulator, which initiates any required braking.
It is important to note that CMBS cannot detect all objects ahead, nor is it intended to replace the driver’s assessment of traffic conditions and control of the vehicle. The driver must intervene in certain situations, and must always be attentive when using the system. Although in many cases CMBS will stop the car, it is not intended to apply enough braking force to prevent all collisions. Based on the conditions, the system also may not perform all visual- and audible-alert stages, and may instead automatically engage the brakes if the system deems it necessary.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead and to determine whether a collision is imminent. If the FCW system detects a vehicle or pedestrian in front of the RDX and then determines that a collision may occur (due to a speed differential between the RDX and the object), it will trigger a “BRAKE” message on the Multi-Information Display (MID) and an audible alert. The FCW system in the RDX will not automatically brake, and the driver remains responsible for safely operating the vehicle and avoiding collisions.Drivers may adjust the distance at which FCW alerts occur and may choose between “Long,” “Normal,” or “Short.” Drivers may also select “Off” to disable the FCW system entirely.
Note that the FCW system cannot detect all objects ahead; accuracy will vary based on weather, speed and other factors.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is designed to alert the driver if the vehicle is leaving a detected lane without the turn signal being activated. The system functions at speeds from 45 to 90 mph on straight or slightly curved roads, alerting the driver of deviations from a detected lane. The LDW system utilizes the same upper front windshield camera used for FCW® and LKAS.If the vehicle begins to move out of a detected lane without the turn signal activated, LDW illuminates a Lane Departure message on the Multi-Information Display (MID) and sounds an audible warning, advising the driver to take appropriate action. The system can be activated and deactivated by pressing the LDW button located on the instrument panel, to the left of the steering column.
There are certain conditions under which the system may not engage or operate, including inclement weather (e.g., snow, ice or heavy rain) and extreme cabin heat (due to operability of the camera). The system will automatically suspend operation when the brakes are applied or the turn signals are used. LDW may not detect all lane markings or lane departures; accuracy will vary based on weather, speed and road condition. The driver remains responsible for safely operating the vehicle.
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) provides a less stressful driving experience by reducing steering correction movements and driving effort on the highway. LKAS uses a camera to read lane markings and uses the Electric Power Steering to assist the driver in maintaining their position within the lane.Designed for the U.S. road structure, the system uses a Monocular Camera mounted on the upper portion of the windshield to identify painted lanes, Botts’ Dots and Cat Eye markers at speeds between 45 mph and 90 mph. When LKAS senses that the driver is drifting from the middle of a detected lane, the system generates corrective steering torque to assist the driver in maintaining lane position.
LKAS may be activated and deactivated using a switch located on the lower right part of the steering wheel. The system will suspend after several seconds if the driver takes his or her hands off the wheel, accompanied by a visual warning in the MID, resuming when the driver makes a steering input.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Acura RDX has an onboard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that warns the driver if the air pressure decreases significantly in any tire. The system helps reduce the chance of damaging a tire or losing control of the vehicle due to low air pressure. This is important because a slow leak might not be easily detectable but could over time cause significant air loss resulting in loss of grip or potentially a blowout.
TPMS uses a sensor mounted in each wheel that continually monitors tire pressure and sends a coded signal to the TPMS electronic control unit (ECU). The process begins with a signal initiator located on the chassis just inboard of each tire. The initiator sends a unique signal for each TPMS sensor. Then the TPMS sensor sends tire pressure data to the TPMS ECU, which compares the values for each tire’s pressure against an acceptable range of pressures.
Fuel Tank Safety
The RDX’s 16-gallon fuel tank is located in a protected area in front of the rear body-deformation zone, which helps minimize the risk of tank damage during a collision. In addition, locating the fuel tank in this protected area helps optimize vehicle balance by moving the weight of the fuel tank farther forward. Thus, handling characteristics are minimally affected whether the fuel tank is full or near empty.