2024 Acura RDX A-Spec Review — The Secret Sporty SUV Nobody Talks About

Reviewed by The Plug — SUV skeptic

You ever drive something and ask yourself, “Why is this actually kinda fun?” That was me in the 2024 Acura RDX A-Spec. I didn’t expect to enjoy this thing as much as I did. On paper, it’s a luxury compact SUV, the kind of car you buy when you say, “I guess it’s time to grow up.” But in real life? It’s got real Honda spirit hiding under all that leather and red stitching.

Performance: The Type R's Responsible Cousin

Not gonna lie, the RDX is surprisingly quick. Like “damn, you’re pretty fast for a big guy” quick. The turbocharged 2.0L has just a whisper of lag off the line, but once you’re in it, the thing moves. Is the throttle response perfect? Nah. It’s a little sleepy sometimes, like it hits snooze before waking up. But once it’s up, it's up.

No joke, this SUV handles way better than it has any right to. It won’t out-grip a sports car, but for something with legit cargo space and backseat legroom, it can hustle through on-ramps and winding back roads like a champ. It’s not quite a Civic Type R, but you can feel the DNA in there. It's like the Type R got a little older, got a little slower, had a couple kids, but still hits the gym.

Ride Quality: Just Right

Acura nailed the ride balance. It’s sporty without being harsh, comfy without being floaty. You’ll feel the road enough to stay engaged, but not so much that you’re questioning your life choices during pothole season. Goldilocks would approve.

Interior: Roomy, Luxe Vibes with a Side of “Wait, How Do I Work This?”

The cabin’s legit. It’s spacious, the seats are buttery comfortable, and the A-Spec trim brings just the right amount of “I spent money” energy. Visibility is great (no chunky blind spots) and the overall layout feels upscale and driver-focused.

Now, let’s talk infotainment. The screen looks good, the interface isn’t bad, but that trackpad? It takes some getting used to. It’s like learning to write left-handed with gloves on. Once you get it, it’s fine, but there’s a learning curve. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wireless, which is awesome, until they decide not to work. Finicky is the word. Wireless charging also fits that bill. Sometimes it charges, sometimes your phone’s just warm and confused.

Sound System: Certified Slapper

The sound system, though? 🔥 Absolute win. Whether you're bumping bass-heavy tracks or zoning out with lo-fi during traffic, it sounds clean, rich, and immersive. Acura did well here.

Fuel Economy: Depends on Your Mood

I averaged around 21 mpg doing a mix of freeway cruising and city crawling. Respectable for the class, but if you have a heavy foot (and with how fun this thing can be, you probably will), don’t expect Prius numbers. You will burn a little extra premium fuel, but hey, you’re smiling while doing it.

The Plug’s Final Take

The 2024 Acura RDX A-Spec is one of those rare crossovers that lets you have your practicality and eat your corners too. It’s stylish, quick, and just edgy enough to keep a car enthusiast happy while still handling everyday life like a responsible-ish adult.

It’s not perfect, throttle response is a little lazy and the infotainment can be stubborn, but overall? This thing’s a sleeper hit. If you want a sharp-looking SUV that drives like it has something to prove, this is the one.