The 2017 Acura RDX lasts around 250,000 miles with some relatively minor transmission software and brake issues reported. At $25,315 to $29,950, it’s expensive, but a great value if you’re looking for an SUV with some luxury features.
Is the 2017 Acura RDX a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2017 is a very good year for the Acura RDX since it offers nice luxury features and technology. Owner reviews praise the smooth suspension, powerful engine, along with the reasonable ownership costs.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are reasonably luxurious, the seats are comfortable on long drives, the cargo space is also very good for a small SUV.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems found on the 2017 RDX, in general models from 2013–2018 are all good, with some engine problems in 2019 which are cleared up by 2020.
- Performance 8/10 – Performance is good from the standard V6 engine which is reasonably quick for a small SUV.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2017 RDX is safe, earning a 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, along with lane keeping assist.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 23 MPG, giving 368 miles of range from the 16 gallon tank. Gas costs are average for an SUV at $261 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2017 Acura RDX is a good value since it’s cheaper than many other luxury SUVs while offering a nice driving experience.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Acura RDX?
- Consumer Reports says the 2017 Acura RDX doesn’t push the envelope but offers a very nice driving experience with high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the RDX at 4.3/5, enjoying the passenger room in the rear seats, but doesn’t like the distracting touchscreen.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the RDX a 4.4/5, praising the impressive handling for a small SUV, but owners don’t like the poor off-road performance.
What Common Problems Does the 2017 Acura RDX Have?
Common problems found on the 2017 Acura RDX include the navigation system freezing, slow gear changes, along with warped brake rotors. Overall, these problems are generally minor compared to other luxury SUVs on the market, leading to lower repair costs as it ages.
Navigation system freezing is the most widespread complaint on the 2017 RDX, showing up in the first 2,000 miles. Usually, the problem is simply caused by a software issue. There are updates for the stereo system software which improves the reliability. Most dealerships will install the updates for free, while some charge around $50.
Slow gear changes have also been reported at around 15,000 miles. This is also a software issue, usually. Most dealerships will update the transmission software for free, while some charge around $100. There are some rare reports of damage to the gears in the transmission, but those problems are usually covered under a warranty when it has low mileage.
Warped brake rotors are another complaint from some 2017 RDX owners at around 10,000 miles. If you are heavy on the brakes it can lead to additional heat building up which causes the rotors to warp. Replacing the rotors costs around $550, depending on local labor rates.
There is only one recall on the 2017 Acura RDX, which is better than other compact luxury SUVs. It covers an incorrect information label, which Acura will replace with the correct label for free.
How Long Will the 2017 Acura RDX Last?
A well-maintained 2017 Acura RDX can last around 250,000 miles, which is longer than other small luxury SUVs including the Mercedes GLC. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than other SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $466 per year.
As a used 2017 Acura RDX reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the fuel door release actuator for $175, A/C refrigerant pressure switch costing $375, along with the water pump which costs $600.
I have had no problems with this vehicle and it is very reliable! I highly recommend this vehicle. Acura's last a while.
This is a very reliable vehicle. I have not had any problems. The system monitors the car and lets you know if there is a problem.
Yes it's very reliable as long as you follow maintenance and learn about the expensive vehicle you just bought. No problems so far.
One time We I’ve check emission system light up and the car was not going fast at all if pressed on the gas
Very reliable and really no problems we bought the car new. The Acura dealership is very helpful and courteous. Also flexible with appointments.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is good offering a dual-screen setup in the dash, but is missing some of the latest phone connectivity. Optional upgrades include a more powerful stereo system.
Standard safety technology is basic, offering a rearview camera as well as traction control.
Optional driver assistance safety features include:
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot monitoring
- Lane keep assist
- Rear cross traffic alert
Is the 2017 Acura RDX a Good Value?
Yes, the 2017 Acura RDX is a good value since it offers luxury and technology paired with a reliable V6 engine. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $25,315 to $29,950, making it less than a Porsche Macan or BMW X3. When new, the price range was $35,670 to $43,820. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Acura RDX?
The 2017 Acura RDX is only offered as one model, although there are several packages available which add more features. The RDX comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is an optional upgrade.
Standard features on the RDX include:
- 18-inch wheels
- Rearview camera
- Automatic LED headlights
- Cruise control
- Rear privacy glass
- Keyless ignition and entry
- Power liftgate
- Sunroof
- Dual-zone climate control
- Heated power front seats (eight-way driver, four-way passenger)
- Leatherette (premium vinyl) upholstery
- Leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
- Auto-dimming mirror
- Bluetooth phone and audio
- Seven-speaker sound system with satellite radio, Pandora Internet radio control, auxiliary audio jack, USB port, and a media player interface
AcuraWatch Plus Package offers:
- Forward collision warning and automatic braking system
- Lane-departure warning and keeping system
- Adaptive cruise control
- Color trip computer display
Technology Package adds:
- Blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems
- Navigation system
- Traffic information
- GPS-linked climate control
- Leather upholstery
- Eight-way power passenger seat
- Smartphone apps
- HD radio
- Aha Internet radio capability
- 10-speaker Acura/ELS sound system
Advance Package has even more items such as:
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Automatic wipers
- Fog Lights
- Auto-dimming side mirrors
- Remote ignition
- Ventilated front seats
What Engines Come In the Acura RDX?
Under the hood, you’ll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers an impressive 279 horsepower at up to 23 MPG. This engine is mated to a very smooth six-speed automatic transmission. It is also capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.2 seconds, which is reasonably fast for a luxury compact SUV.
What Colors Does the Acura RDX Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Acura RDX?
The 2017 Acura RDX is widely recognized for its comfortable and luxurious interior. Equipped with high-quality materials and well-crafted features, the cabin offers a top-notch ride experience. The seats are well-padded, supportive, and designed with premium leather upholstery, which adds to the overall comfort and aesthetic appeal. The vehicle seats five people, and both rows provide ample head and legroom, making it suitable for both short city drives and long-distance journeys.
Regarding ride comfort, the RDX excels with its smooth and compliant suspension, absorbing most road imperfections and providing a serene ride quality. The cabin is also notably quiet, thanks to effective sound insulation that keeps wind and road noise to a minimum.
How Much Storage Space Does the Acura RDX Have?
The 2017 Acura RDX is a versatile luxury compact SUV that offers substantial storage space. Regarding cargo capacity, it boasts an impressive 26.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. This is more than enough space to fit everyday items such as grocery bags, suitcases, or a stroller. If you’re embarking on a larger shopping spree, the rear seats can be easily folded down, expanding the cargo area to an even more generous 61.3 cubic feet. This space is enough for larger items such as a bicycle, a small piece of furniture, or several large suitcases for those long vacation trips.
Moreover, the interior storage compartments of the 2017 RDX are also well-designed. There are door pockets, a large glove box, a deep center console, and under-floor storage in the cargo area to conveniently place your small items like mobile phones, water bottles, or notebooks.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The second generation of the Acura RDX was introduced for the 2013 model year.
2015: No significant changes from previous years.
2016: Upgraded front grille, refreshed headlights, new touchscreen, and more safety equipment.
2017: No major changes from earlier years.
2018: Offers the same features as previous years.
2019: Fully redesigned for the third generation with new styling, technology, and engines.
2020: No major changes after last year’s redesign.
2021: Limited-run PMC edition model introduced.
How Does the Acura RDX Compare to the Competition?
The 2017 Acura RDX is a very nice compact SUV if you’re looking for some entry-level luxury features paired with the reliability you would expect from an SUV that is a Honda at its core.
The Acura MDX is a larger SUV offered by Acura which costs around $3,500 more. Passenger room is better in the Acura MDX, while the Acura RDX offers a sportier driving experience. We recommend the Acura MDX since the added practicality is worth the money, although both are very similar choices.
The Honda CR-V is another SUV which is available for around $2,500 less. Both the Acura RDX and Honda CR-V are built on the same platform, although the cabin is nicer in the Acura RDX and the engine is more powerful. We recommend the Acura RDX for most buyers since the extra luxury is worth the money.
Do Owners Recommend the Acura RDX?
Yes it is great! Rides very smooth and I have had no problems! I love the shape and the interior. It is very comfortable.
Very good and dependable. The rdx has just the right amount of room for the family. Love the moon roof. Easy to drive.
Yeah it's pretty good and reliable. I'd recommend it to friends. It's also pretty good on gas mileage.
Yes it is. Drives very well and plenty of room for 5 people. Wish the trunk had more room though I like it
Yes it is a good vehicle with plenty of options. The one with the technology package has a lot of safety features.
