2020 Acura RDX Review: Reliable Small Luxury SUV With Low Ownership Costs As It Ages

Alex Showalter
Nov 6, 2023

The 2020 Acura RDX lasts around 200,000 miles with some average check engine light and stereo system issues. At $31,250 to $39,998, it’s a great value for an entry-level compact luxury SUV with a lot of advanced features.

VehicleHistory Image
likeFilled The Good
There are a lot of technology features, passenger room is excellent throughout the cabin and steering is responsive for an SUV.
dislikeFilled The Bad
The base engine is weaker than some competitors, its stereo system is tricky to use and the suspension is a bit firm.

Is the 2020 Acura RDX a Good Used SUV?

  • Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Acura RDX since it offers decent reliability and a nice cabin for the money. Owner reviews praise the upscale interior, smooth suspension, along with the responsive engine.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nice for a luxury small SUV, the seats offer good support on long drives, and cargo space is good behind the rear seats.
  • Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2020 RDX. Avoid models from 2019 which have engine issues, while 20132018, and 20202022 are more reliable choices.
  • Performance 8/10 – Performance is okay from the standard turbocharged engine, but it’s not as quick as some of its German competitors.
  • Safety 9/10 – The 2020 RDX is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. Optional upgrades include a head-up display along with parking sensors.
  • Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 24 MPG, offering 410 miles of range from the 17.1 gallon tank. Gas costs are $13 higher than average at $259 per month.
  • Value 8/10 – The 2020 Acura RDX is less expensive than many other small luxury SUVs with reasonable depreciation rates as it ages.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Michael G
2020 Acura rdx best car ever owned!
No issues so far. Incredible performance for vehicle type and extremely comfortable seats. The vehicle handles very well. The head up. Display and els sound system are the top features. I wish it had wireless CarPlay but overall the car is an excellent value and I am very happy with my purchase.
accountCircle John N
Highlights of the 2020 Acura rdx.
All rdx trims are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It comes mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but our rdx tester came with Acura's sh-AWD option for added traction and handling capability. The 2020 Acura rdx offers sharp steering and excellent handling in the corners for an SUV.
accountCircle Clarence L
Title: Acura rdx a-spec - cannot beat it, buy it or lease it!
I only buy Acura automobiles. The rdx a-spec is an advanced automobile with the latest features incorporating technology to get better gas mileage, performance and driving experience. Different drive modes, turbo charge, panoramic moonroof, 20 inch tires and a respectable mpg rating are but a few features which distinguish the Acura a-spec rdx from the many other SUVs on the road. The styling is smart, sharp and subtle. With a high 'build quality' the 2020 Acura rdx a-spec will hold retain a high resale value and is also a excellent automobile to consider leasing. For the money, one of the best buys on the market in its class.
accountCircle Jimmy A
It has auto park, and many more features.
The vehicle has a very nice interior, has an auto braking system, eco mode, sports mode, 4 wheel drive. It also has an auto park feature, GPS location, emergency call and 2 row seats. It also has Bluetooth speakers embedded into the car. To be real with you, I think this is one of the best cars you can buy.
accountCircle Kolby C
Acura rdx 2020 form and function.
The rdx pushes the limits of what constitutes a 'compact' SUV. The cabin is spacious and provides very comfortable and supportive front seats. It is not hard to find a good driving position, and you should have plenty of head- and legroom. Space extends to the second row, which also has great headroom and decent legroom. The front row has space for large water bottles in the doors and in the center console, hidden behind a retractable panel. Beneath the shifter console, there is a pass-through cargo tray, which also has a USB port. The second row has a fold-down center console with two cup holders. It also has in-door cup holders.
accountCircle Roger R
The 2020 Acura rdx review performance.
The 2020 Acura rdx comes equipped with a 2.0l turbocharged inline four cylinder engine that makes 272hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. That is a healthy bump in torque from the previous v6 offering, and it also creates more of that power lower in the rpm range. The 2020 Acura rdx has angular bodywork and a striking front end which stands out compared with its subtler alternatives. While the Acura badge might lack the cache of rivals such as Audi and BMW.
accountCircle Tucker D
Sleek with lots of new technology.
It is very high tech and includes features that my older cars do not have. I also think it has a very sleek design. The care also comes with large screen that is good for music and GPS. The different driving modes are convenient and work perfectly. The car also has great fuel economy because the car turns off when stopped.
accountCircle Harlan R
Most comfortable vehicle I have ever used. It has to a good performance.
It's much more reliable and comfortable. There is no problems in this car. It has a huge performance of comfort. And also easy to drive the vehicle. I love this vehicle. There is nothing to complain about this vehicle. The feature of this vehicle is good enough to buy and ride. For use it was most comfortable that I use any of other vehicle.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Tammy T
Acura rdx not so good a car.
Brakes squeak and Acura is okay with this. The problem has persisted since 2015. Gas mileage is terrible for a four cylinder. My old sequoia 8 banger gets better. Acura customer service is horrible at corporate level. Car does have nice updated features.
accountCircle JJ
Avoid the headache..avoid Acura RDX
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Can not give it less than one star! Dealership is of NO help!
accountCircle Jonathan D
Title of the review title of the review.
Not large enough. I need more space, I thought it was going to be bigger than this. Some more space would really be the way to go. Maybe more foot room also, definitely need more space. I like the color though and the way that it drives. It feels great but I just need more room in it for gear and groceries.
accountCircle DRK
DRK
Been buying Acura’s for 30 years but the problems started in 2015, quality and manufacturer service have taken a drastic drop.No customer loyalty at all. Already having electrical problems with my 2020 RDX. This will definitely be my last Acura.
accountCircle Glenn OBrien
Electrical Safety Issue and Lack of Dealer Response
On Monday December 30th , 2019 we went to the DCH Montclair Acura dealer of New Jersey to purchase an RDX. My wife Louise and I were considering two different cars at this time. The first car was a 2019 certified pre owned, gunmetal grey RDX Advance and the second car was a 2020 brand new gunmetal grey RDX Advance. We were far into the discussion on buying the 2019 RDX or the RDX 2020 After lengthy negotiations, we decided to purchase the new 2020 gunmetal RDX car. Then we learned that the 2020 RDX Gunmetal car had been sold in the meantime. The only choice the dealership provided us was a black or white 2020 RDX; even after I asked if they could get us a Gunmetal Grey car at a future date. The sales manager said that we would loose the $1000.00 year end deal if we did as they had to have a VIN number in order for us to get the $1000.00 discount. We then decided to settle for the black 2020 RDX car. We went through the normal procedure of settling on the final price of the car, met with finance and purchased the car. When we went to do the initial set up of the car and learn all of the controls; a warning light came on about an air bag problem. The car was taken back into the service area to fix it. Then my sales person told me it was not an air bag problem but a safety issue with the driver seat belt not acting properly and that it would cause damage to the driver if it was not fixed. The dealer said they fixed this and I drove the car home. When we got the car home, we noticed several scratches on the car. These were not there on the initial examination of the car, and must have occurred when they worked on the seatbelt issue. I sent pictures to our sales person and the dealer said they would fix these and that we should bring it back in. The car was returned on January 2, 2020 to have the scratches fixed and it came back without the scratches being fixed. At this point, another service appointment was set up to send the car out to have the scratches fixed on January 7, 2020. On January 5, 2020 the car was sitting in our driveway and the head lights and the dashboard inside the car started flashing uncontrollably by themselves. I ran out to try to turn off the lights and I was unable to stop the head lights and dashboard from strobing / flashing. I could not start the car nor turn off the lights; it was completely unresponsive to the remote. Nothing could be done on my part to make the lights from flashing. This went on for 5 hours before the car finally lost all power. I texted and sent a video of all of this when it first started to my Acura sales representative. A call to the dealer at 2 in the afternoon with a video was sent to the salesman. We tried to jump the car on Monday however it would not take a jump. The dealer sent a tow truck to the house to pick up the car. This took close to 3 hours. It was agreed that they would work on the scratches and the electrical issue at the same time. They replaced the battery and said that was the issue. (no idea how a battery could cause a car to flash for 5 hours and not allow it to be turned on or off) but of course the battery died after this timeframe. They sent the car to a body shop to fix the scratches. The car was ready on Thursday the 9th for pick up. When I went in to pick up the car, the main scratch on the driver side rear door was still visible as well as new swirling scratches all over the entire top coat of the car. I left the car there at the dealer and again asked them to fix this, again. I went home in a loaner car. The loaner worked fine for a day. The second day (January 11) it died and I had to have it jumped. A neighbor saw it with lights flashing late at night, same electrical/battery issue. I didn’t use it after that and returned it to the dealer on Tuesday Jan 14 when they told me my newly purchased car was ready to be picked up. When I went to pick up the 2020 RDX Advanced, they said they used a special buffing compound to remove the swirl-marks out of the car. Most were removed but not all of them. They offered me 5 oil changes, 2 tire rotations and to pay for the interest on the loan for the days we have not been able to use the car. We left the car at the dealership. The manager from the dealership called and stated that this “battery” issue has happened in other cars, we should pick up our car without giving us an explanation as to what they have done to rectify the situation. Acura Corporate has not been responsive, a case worker was assigned, however he went out of the office with no message to us for the next 6 weeks. A second case worker was assigned however she also has not been responsive, and finally after a week returned our call and said she could not help us. I have no confidence in the safety integrity of the vehicle, 1. Seatbelt warning, 2. The electrical problem of 5 hours sitting in my driveway flashing where nothing could be done, What would happen if I was driving on a highway and I wouldn’t have control of the car. This is clearly a safety issue with this vehicle. 3. In addition the clear coat of the car is compromised and what should be a new car now looks like one that has been in an accident. I would like a new 2020 RDX Advanced in either Black or Gunmetal grey as well as compensation for my time, aggravation and not having a new vehicle which I have been paying for since December 31. I am a valued Honda Customer for most of my life, and still currently own 3 Honda’s. This is not an acceptable way to be treated by Acura/Honda.
accountCircle Rory M
Wouldn't recommend buying a new Acura.
Driver door doesn't align properly when getting it from the dealership. Liftgate makes a humming noise when closing on a hot day, when it is left out in the sun for 6-8 hours. Speakers pop when on the phone or listening to music. (speakers are not blown) Acura has been giving me the run arounds on fixing my vehicle.
accountCircle Rachel L
Why you should buy this car!
They're rugged, they're built well,( most of the time) and made to stay. They have the best engines, transmissions, suspension, and brakes. This car allows me to get across town to work and back. The air conditioning work dandy and I bought it used! Great car.
accountCircle Nicole J
It has great technology and safety!
It is a great car but I would rather own a jeep wrangler. It has great technology although the touch screen is hard to use while driving. Overall, it is easy to drive and has many safety features! I just feel like a jeep wrangler would better fit my needs.

What Do Critics Say About the Acura RDX?

  • Consumer Reports says the 2020 Acura RDX offers agile handling and a modern interior, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
  • Edmunds rates the Acura RDX at 4/5, enjoying the spacious cabin for a small SUV, but doesn’t like that the options only come in packages instead of standalone.
  • Kelley Blue Book users give the RDX a 4/5, praising the advanced standard tech features, but owners don’t like the relatively weak standard engine.

What Common Problems Does the 2020 Acura RDX Have?

Common problems found on the 2020 Acura RDX include check engine lights, the stereo disconnecting, and noise from the brakes. Overall, these problems are similar to other small luxury SUVs on the market, but repair costs are slightly lower than the competition.

Check engine lights and limp mode are the most widespread complaints from 2020 RDX owners, showing up within the first 15,000 miles. The problem is usually caused by a fuel delivery issue, which is covered by a recall. Acura will replace the fuel pump on affected models for free, which solves the problem.

The stereo disconnecting from mobile devices has also been reported by some RDX owners within the first 1,500 miles. There are stereo system updates available which improve the stability of the Bluetooth connections. Most dealerships will install these updates for free, while others charge around $50.

Noise from the brake system also shows up on some RDX models at roughly 20,000 miles. If there’s excessive noise, then the brake pads need to be replaced. Changing out the brake pads costs around $150, while new rotors are over $400 if they’ve been damaged.

There are two recalls on the 2020 Acura RDX, which is better than other luxury SUVs on the market. The most serious recall is the one for the fuel pump, which Acura will replace for free. The second recall covers seat belt buckles, which may not latch. Acura will also swap out those for free on affected models.

How Long Will the 2020 Acura RDX Last?

A well-maintained 2020 Acura RDX can last over 200,000 miles, which is shorter than the long-lasting Lexus NX. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than other luxury small SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $467 per year.

As a used 2020 Acura RDX reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the A/C blower motor for $150, crankshaft position sensor costing $225, along with the oil pressure sensors, which costs around $350.

How Is the Technology?

The standard entertainment technology is great and includes a 10.2-inch central display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Optional upgrades include a more powerful stereo system with up to 16 speakers.

Standard safety technology is better than many other small SUVs, and features:

  • Rearview camera
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane keep assist
  • Road departure mitigation
  • Forward collision warning
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane departure warning

Optional driver assistance features include:

  • Surround-view parking camera system
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Blind spot monitoring
  • Head-up display
  • Rear cross traffic alert

Is the 2020 Acura RDX a Good Value?

Yes, the 2020 Acura RDX is a good value for a compact luxury SUV since it offers good technology features and improved reliability from last year. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $31,250 to $39,998, making it less than a Mercedes GLC or BMW X3. When new, the price range was $37,800 to $47,900. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 7% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Acura RDX?

There is one main model of the 2020 Acura RDX offered and then there are three main options packages available for it. The RDX comes standard with front-wheel drive, while the SH-AWD (super handling all-wheel drive) system is available as an optional upgrade.

Base is the entry-level version with:

  • Comes well-equipped with many standard luxury features.
  • Includes the AcuraWatch suite of driver aids.
  • Equipped with an infotainment system featuring a touchpad interface.
  • Boasts a 10.2-inch central display.
  • Offers Apple CarPlay smartphone integration.

Technology adds upgrades such as:

  • Adds navigation system.
  • Includes leather upholstery.
  • Features blind-spot monitoring.
  • Equipped with rear cross-traffic alert.
  • Upgraded to a 12-speaker sound system.

A-Spec has more items, including:

  • Includes all features from the Technology package.
  • Adds larger wheels and wider tires.
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Features blacked-out trim inside and out for visual enhancement.
  • Equipped with a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system.
  • Offers unique styling, but no significant performance enhancements.

Advance is the top of the line model, which has:

  • Most feature-rich package.
  • Includes acoustic front door glass and thicker carpet for noise reduction.
  • Equipped with adaptive suspension dampers.
  • Features a hands-free liftgate.
  • Offers upgraded power-adjustable front seats.
  • Includes a 360-degree camera.
  • Equipped with a customizable head-up display.

Each package builds upon the one before it, providing a range of options suited for different preferences and needs, from standard luxury in the Base model to the comprehensive feature set found in the Advance package.

car
w/Technology Pkg
272 HP 24 MPG
car
w/A-Spec Pkg
272 HP 24 MPG
car
w/Advance Pkg
272 HP 24 MPG

What Engines Come In the Acura RDX?

The 2020 Acura RDX is powered by a single engine option across all its trim levels, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powertrain is robust, generating an impressive 272 horsepower, guaranteeing that the RDX feels energetic and responsive in various driving situations. The engine is mated to a ten-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth, quick shifts and contributes to the vehicle’s combined fuel economy of 24. In terms of acceleration, the 2020 RDX can sprint from 0 to 60 MPH in 6.6 seconds, a respectable time that adds to its performance appeal.

What Colors Does the Acura RDX Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Acura RDX?

The 2020 Acura RDX redefines comfort in the luxury compact SUV segment, offering a meticulously crafted interior and an array of features designed to enhance the driving experience for both the driver and passengers. The vehicle’s spaciousness is immediately noticeable, comfortably seating up to five adults and providing ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats. The seats themselves are a highlight, designed with high-quality materials and available in both plush leatherette or rich leather, with options for heating and ventilation that further accentuate the comfort on both cold and hot days.

Additionally, the RDX’s advanced climate control system maintains a pleasant atmosphere within the cabin, irrespective of the conditions outside. Acoustic glass and active sound control contribute to a quiet interior, making even long journeys relaxing. The SUV’s adaptive suspension, part of the available Adaptive Damper System, adjusts to the road’s nuances, delivering a smooth ride and making sure that passengers barely feel the bumps and dips encountered on their travels.

Moreover, the ergonomically designed interior makes every control easily accessible, with a True Touchpad Interface™ that responds precisely to the user’s touch, significantly reducing any potential driving distraction. The panoramic moonroof, standard on the 2020 RDX, adds to the sense of airiness and relaxation in the cabin, allowing passengers to gaze at the sky and surroundings. All these elements combine to make sure that the 2020 Acura RDX offers a comfort-focused, luxurious driving experience that cradles passengers in a cocoon of luxury, whether on quick commutes or longer road trips.

How Much Storage Space Does the Acura RDX Have?

The 2020 Acura RDX boasts a generous amount of storage space, skillfully combining luxury and practicality. Owners will enjoy up to 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, a capacity that expands to an impressive 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This spaciousness is more than enough to accommodate a variety of items, from daily groceries and a baby stroller to larger, more cumbersome items like a bicycle or a couple of large suitcases for those longer trips.

Furthermore, the RDX is cleverly designed with numerous small interior spaces to enhance your storage options. These include door panel storage areas, a center console with an adjustable parcel shelf, and seat-back pockets, perfect for storing smaller items such as smartphones, wallets, water bottles, or tablets. The underfloor storage also adds a discrete option for keeping valuables out of sight. These thoughtfully designed spaces make sure that both driver and passengers have ample room to store their personal items, enhancing the overall comfort and convenience of their journey in the 2020 Acura RDX.

VehicleHistory Image

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The third generation of the Acura RDX was launched for the 2019 model year.

2015: No updates from earlier years.

2016: Redesigned front grille with updated headlights, a new touchscreen, and more safety features.

2017: Same features carry over from the 2016 model year.

2018: No changes from earlier years.

2019: Fully redesigned for the third generation with more technology, new engines, and updated exterior styling.

2020: No major changes after last year’s full redesign.

2021: New PMC limited-edition model launched

How Does the Acura RDX Compare to the Competition?

The 2020 Acura RDX is a very nice small luxury SUV since it offers good practicality, a lot of technology, and reasonable ownership costs as it ages.

The Acura MDX is a larger SUV offered by Acura, which costs about $3,500 more. Passenger room is better in the Acura MDX, while the Acura RDX is much easier to park in large cities where parking spots are small. We recommend the Acura RDX for most shoppers unless you need the extra space found in the MDX.

The Honda CR-V is another small SUV which can be found for about $5,000 less. Both the Acura RDX and Honda CR-V are built on the same base platform, but the Acura RDX has a more luxurious interior. We recommend the Acura RDX if you want more features and a nicer cabin, otherwise the Honda CR-V is a better value.

Ranks #16 Luxury Compact SUV by Owners

1
car
4.89
2
car
4.88
16
car
4.39

Do Owners Recommend the Acura RDX?

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Geeta P on June 24, 2021
Acura rdx 2020 review: moonroof.
The only problems are, the pickup is abrupt and the car makes a weird sound (as if the brakes are gone ) in the morning. The performance is wonderful, in snow, comfort and sports mode. I personally miss the shifting gears and do not like the push buttons. Comfort is great, only wish heated steering wheel was in this package. Moon roof is gorgeous.
accountCircle Kim B on June 16, 2021
2020 Acura rdx w fantastic cruise control!
I absolutely love that this car has cruise control that when you use it, the car not only slows down in front of another car but will also slow down to a complete stop as well! Plus, I also love that it has a brake hold, so when you are stopped at a light, the car stops too!
accountCircle Geraldine C on May 17, 2021
Loving our new Acura: the comfort and safety features.
We have only had this vehicle since July. We have done 3 major trips in that time and have found the car to be very comfortable and reliable. The safety feature such as lane departure are good. The warning lights when cars are passing is very useful. The seat position options are very good especially for long journeys.
accountCircle Jenna S on May 10, 2021
Great, reliable, stylish SUV.
Reliable. Stylish. Runs well. Interior is sleek. Touchpad is easy to use. The moon roof is nearly the length of the roof which provides excellent light. The engine is responsive and quick. Excellent turn radius. The vehicle is able to detect vehicles in lane when using cruise control and responds to the speed of the other vehicle. It slows down and keeps at least a car length between vehicles.
accountCircle Jimmy A on May 3, 2021
It has auto park, and many more features.
The vehicle has a very nice interior, has an auto braking system, eco mode, sports mode, 4 wheel drive. It also has an auto park feature, GPS location, emergency call and 2 row seats. It also has Bluetooth speakers embedded into the car. To be real with you, I think this is one of the best cars you can buy.
accountCircle Pamela B on April 21, 2021
Really enjoy my rdx, great for small families. Nice sports body.
My Acura rdx drives smoothly, which is great if you have kids. It is a small size SUV but perfect for a small family. Enjoy the different type of modes to drive. Really great sports look to it. Really great options for colors. There will be many options for you to choose from. Great space in the back to carry everything you need. The seats are really easy for you to clean if anything gets dropped on them. Everything is comfortable. The headlights give great visibility at night. The sunroof is great for kids and starry nights. Sunroof cover pulls all the way.
accountCircle Tucker D on April 12, 2021
Sleek with lots of new technology.
It is very high tech and includes features that my older cars do not have. I also think it has a very sleek design. The care also comes with large screen that is good for music and GPS. The different driving modes are convenient and work perfectly. The car also has great fuel economy because the car turns off when stopped.
accountCircle Ron Perry on April 8, 2021
Expensive and problematic for a care in this class
Mixed about recommendation. The construction of the vehicle and ride seem very good. The technology is extremely difficult to work with. Often restarting, "blinking out", and just slow. The sound system is mediocre. The road noise is greater than you would expect for the cost of the car. Next time Audi for me.
accountCircle Sophia W on March 28, 2021
A truly luxurious, affordable car!
My 2020 Acura has been a household necessity ever since we got it! It is a great luxury vehicle with an excellent make and design, with very plush seating. It rides very smoothly and we really love our car... The brake control is excellent and everything is very automated, which is a great thing. The price point is also stellar and so far we haven't run into any issues with our car since purchasing. It is so unique and affordable for how luxurious it really is.
accountCircle Jonathan D on March 21, 2021
Title of the review title of the review.
Not large enough. I need more space, I thought it was going to be bigger than this. Some more space would really be the way to go. Maybe more foot room also, definitely need more space. I like the color though and the way that it drives. It feels great but I just need more room in it for gear and groceries.
accountCircle DRK on March 16, 2021
DRK
Been buying Acura’s for 30 years but the problems started in 2015, quality and manufacturer service have taken a drastic drop.No customer loyalty at all. Already having electrical problems with my 2020 RDX. This will definitely be my last Acura.
accountCircle Glenn OBrien on March 16, 2021
Electrical Safety Issue and Lack of Dealer Response
On Monday December 30th , 2019 we went to the DCH Montclair Acura dealer of New Jersey to purchase an RDX. My wife Louise and I were considering two different cars at this time. The first car was a 2019 certified pre owned, gunmetal grey RDX Advance and the second car was a 2020 brand new gunmetal grey RDX Advance. We were far into the discussion on buying the 2019 RDX or the RDX 2020 After lengthy negotiations, we decided to purchase the new 2020 gunmetal RDX car. Then we learned that the 2020 RDX Gunmetal car had been sold in the meantime. The only choice the dealership provided us was a black or white 2020 RDX; even after I asked if they could get us a Gunmetal Grey car at a future date. The sales manager said that we would loose the $1000.00 year end deal if we did as they had to have a VIN number in order for us to get the $1000.00 discount. We then decided to settle for the black 2020 RDX car. We went through the normal procedure of settling on the final price of the car, met with finance and purchased the car. When we went to do the initial set up of the car and learn all of the controls; a warning light came on about an air bag problem. The car was taken back into the service area to fix it. Then my sales person told me it was not an air bag problem but a safety issue with the driver seat belt not acting properly and that it would cause damage to the driver if it was not fixed. The dealer said they fixed this and I drove the car home. When we got the car home, we noticed several scratches on the car. These were not there on the initial examination of the car, and must have occurred when they worked on the seatbelt issue. I sent pictures to our sales person and the dealer said they would fix these and that we should bring it back in. The car was returned on January 2, 2020 to have the scratches fixed and it came back without the scratches being fixed. At this point, another service appointment was set up to send the car out to have the scratches fixed on January 7, 2020. On January 5, 2020 the car was sitting in our driveway and the head lights and the dashboard inside the car started flashing uncontrollably by themselves. I ran out to try to turn off the lights and I was unable to stop the head lights and dashboard from strobing / flashing. I could not start the car nor turn off the lights; it was completely unresponsive to the remote. Nothing could be done on my part to make the lights from flashing. This went on for 5 hours before the car finally lost all power. I texted and sent a video of all of this when it first started to my Acura sales representative. A call to the dealer at 2 in the afternoon with a video was sent to the salesman. We tried to jump the car on Monday however it would not take a jump. The dealer sent a tow truck to the house to pick up the car. This took close to 3 hours. It was agreed that they would work on the scratches and the electrical issue at the same time. They replaced the battery and said that was the issue. (no idea how a battery could cause a car to flash for 5 hours and not allow it to be turned on or off) but of course the battery died after this timeframe. They sent the car to a body shop to fix the scratches. The car was ready on Thursday the 9th for pick up. When I went in to pick up the car, the main scratch on the driver side rear door was still visible as well as new swirling scratches all over the entire top coat of the car. I left the car there at the dealer and again asked them to fix this, again. I went home in a loaner car. The loaner worked fine for a day. The second day (January 11) it died and I had to have it jumped. A neighbor saw it with lights flashing late at night, same electrical/battery issue. I didn’t use it after that and returned it to the dealer on Tuesday Jan 14 when they told me my newly purchased car was ready to be picked up. When I went to pick up the 2020 RDX Advanced, they said they used a special buffing compound to remove the swirl-marks out of the car. Most were removed but not all of them. They offered me 5 oil changes, 2 tire rotations and to pay for the interest on the loan for the days we have not been able to use the car. We left the car at the dealership. The manager from the dealership called and stated that this “battery” issue has happened in other cars, we should pick up our car without giving us an explanation as to what they have done to rectify the situation. Acura Corporate has not been responsive, a case worker was assigned, however he went out of the office with no message to us for the next 6 weeks. A second case worker was assigned however she also has not been responsive, and finally after a week returned our call and said she could not help us. I have no confidence in the safety integrity of the vehicle, 1. Seatbelt warning, 2. The electrical problem of 5 hours sitting in my driveway flashing where nothing could be done, What would happen if I was driving on a highway and I wouldn’t have control of the car. This is clearly a safety issue with this vehicle. 3. In addition the clear coat of the car is compromised and what should be a new car now looks like one that has been in an accident. I would like a new 2020 RDX Advanced in either Black or Gunmetal grey as well as compensation for my time, aggravation and not having a new vehicle which I have been paying for since December 31. I am a valued Honda Customer for most of my life, and still currently own 3 Honda’s. This is not an acceptable way to be treated by Acura/Honda.
accountCircle JJ on March 16, 2021
Avoid the headache..avoid Acura RDX
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Can not give it less than one star! Dealership is of NO help!
accountCircle Kristi H on March 8, 2021
Best car ever, for the price of a luxury car this car has it all.
This is the nicest, smoothest car I have ever had. Has awesome speakers, the leather is easy to clean. I love the screen in front. My favorite part about it is the sunroof, it is a double sunroof. Has a lot of room for storage in the back. My golf clubs fit back there.
accountCircle James J on March 6, 2021
2020 Acura rdx- makes babes swoon.
Good performance, great mileage, comfortable seating, great tech in the car. I can take it anywhere, and everywhere I go, people stare at it because it is so good. Once, a woman came up to me and took me to bed (in the back seat) because she was so turned on by the car.
accountCircle Bonnie N on March 2, 2021
Advantages of owning the 2020 Acura rdx.
I love the peppiness of this vehicle when I want to accelerate to get ahead of someone. It is very easy to park and gets around corners really well without bumping curves. I love the style and size as had the mdx and it was too big and harder to handle and park, perfect vehicle for me and love our dealership.
accountCircle Jen R on February 28, 2021
2020 Acura rdx review of base model.
I love the Acura rdx base model. The seats are extremely comfortable and you can adjust them to suit your needs. I also love how spacious the car feels inside even though it is a small SUV. I test drove a few other luxury cars and they were not as comfortable as the Acura and felt like they had less arm and shoulder room. I also love that they include the full length sunroof in the base model it makes the car feel open and airy. My only complaint about the car is that the mirrors do not include the side blinkers or blinker warnings when you are changing lanes.
accountCircle Carol R on February 23, 2021
Great features reasonably priced luxury SUV.
It is amazing:) I have only had it 4 days but still in love. Great mid size SUV, full panoramic sunroof. Nice sound system. Great all weather mats. Apple carplay. 19” rims. Great on gas. Acura offers roadside assistance that is unmatched. Large trunk. Hands free liftgate.
accountCircle Eunice T on February 8, 2021
How far it can go without gas.
It is nice I could go a far distance without buying gas, the interior is a fine design same with the interior it is very smooth glossy and in some good colors. I would recommend buying this car if your looking for a car that last very long for like trips.
accountCircle Eugenie F on February 6, 2021
Black Acura sedan rear view camera cruise control.
The car is reliable it has never gave me problems the interior is really nice I love it. The best feature to me is the sound the speakers are definitely a plus! As well as the rear view camera that expands and allows me to see a lot behind me. This is definitely a nice car for 2020.
accountCircle Nicole J on January 21, 2021
It has great technology and safety!
It is a great car but I would rather own a jeep wrangler. It has great technology although the touch screen is hard to use while driving. Overall, it is easy to drive and has many safety features! I just feel like a jeep wrangler would better fit my needs.
accountCircle Carly M on January 12, 2021
Sporty chic Acura rdx, high performance.
Very aesthetically pleasing. Center console can seem a little small space wise and the brakes are a little touchy, but I love it. The modes: comfort, sport, sport+, and snow, are very cool. I wish there was a digital read speedometer but the red dashboard lights and ambience lights make up for what it is lacking.
accountCircle People W on January 9, 2021
2020 Acura rdx feature review.
This car is comfortable and has a great interior/exterior look. I used to have a Toyota rav4 and went with the Acura rdx as my new car. This car feels bigger and has more leg room in the driver's side. I love the touchpad feature and easy to use. Also the raised divide between the driver and passenger seat makes it feel less crowded.
accountCircle Erika G on January 1, 2021
Drive is smooth and interior is great. Definitely an upgrade for a base model.
I love it, but I do not like the safety measure with automatic braking while on cruise control. It can be a bit scary and brakes hard on its own. Also, it brakes really hard when it think you might rear end a car but does not let you slow down the brake. Sometimes I feel like I might get rear ended because it breaks fast.
accountCircle John N on December 27, 2020
Highlights of the 2020 Acura rdx.
All rdx trims are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It comes mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but our rdx tester came with Acura's sh-AWD option for added traction and handling capability. The 2020 Acura rdx offers sharp steering and excellent handling in the corners for an SUV.
accountCircle David E on December 14, 2020
My vehicle runs smoothly.
Performance, reliability and it is very comfortable. I like the Bluetooth. I have three kids and vehicles are continuing to be passed down and this is the car that I will not pass down. I love the way it drives. It is the most updated car I have. I love this car dealer was very friendly.
accountCircle Tammy T on December 5, 2020
Acura rdx not so good a car.
Brakes squeak and Acura is okay with this. The problem has persisted since 2015. Gas mileage is terrible for a four cylinder. My old sequoia 8 banger gets better. Acura customer service is horrible at corporate level. Car does have nice updated features.
accountCircle Daila V on December 5, 2020
Amazing fast I just love this SUV.
If you are a sports car lover but need space for family this is the SUV for you. When I have my rdx is sports+ mode its just like driving a 2 door sports car. The interiors looks amazing and lots of foot and head room. You really can't go wrong with this SUV.
accountCircle Michelle M on December 5, 2020
Fantastic new Acura rdx for family.
I love the size for a SUV. Just large enough to carry things but not too large for parking. The ability to link with apple is great and makes mapping and messaging easy. The gas mileage is great on the rdx. The service department at Acura is amazing and is both easy to work with and through. I have had no issues with reliability. The performance of the car has been great and a great family car. The front seats are roomy and comfortable. The leather looks good and is wipeable and functional. There should be a control for the back for air control as sometimes it can be stuffy in the back. The trunk area is roomy and provides enough carrying space especially when the back seat is put down.
accountCircle Monica V on November 19, 2020
Awesome Acura! Happy car driver!!
Love my car! Rides comfortable and love the options as riding in comfort mode, sports mode and sports mode plus! You definitely feel the difference when driving in sport. Love the extended moonroof too! The car is very roomy and trunk space is great too!
accountCircle Harlan R on November 18, 2020
Most comfortable vehicle I have ever used. It has to a good performance.
It's much more reliable and comfortable. There is no problems in this car. It has a huge performance of comfort. And also easy to drive the vehicle. I love this vehicle. There is nothing to complain about this vehicle. The feature of this vehicle is good enough to buy and ride. For use it was most comfortable that I use any of other vehicle.
accountCircle Randi H on November 13, 2020
The comfort and technology.
It is very comfortable! It has enough room but also smaller. The new model has all the latest gadgets and technology up to date. It makes it easier for long distance traveling. Especially if you are like me. I love the long travels. It is great with gas and mileage.
accountCircle Andrea A on November 12, 2020
Beautiful appearance inside and out.
Very comfortable and reliable. The ride is very smooth. Every time my family and I are in it we automatically want to go on a long ride just so we can be inside of it is comfort. The technology is easy to use which I like because the older we get, the more difficult we have with new technology.
accountCircle Khai H on November 9, 2020
Best car ever worth every penny!!
Really good on gas good steering and traction makes the whole difference! Plenty of leg room never cramped! Not to expensive, a lot of leg room in the back for people of all sizes. Nice cushioned sits feels like at home! I really recommend this card for a nice sized family!
accountCircle Joe A on November 8, 2020
Rdx has good horsepower for a 4 cylinder SUV.
Wish there were automatic folding windows on the Acura rdx. Like all the features though that come with the advantage package. Enjoy the 360 camera, diagnostics, and acuralink.. Seats are very comfortable. S/c runs fine as do the heated seats. Cargo space is very adequate.
accountCircle johnny D on November 7, 2020
Amazing car, should add some options other countries get.
Comfy ride, handles great. Had a lot of technology. Gets good gas mileage. Has lots of power. Haven't had any issues so far with my ownership. Would recommend this car to others to drive and own. I wish they would have added power folding mirrors for the USA spec.
accountCircle April D on November 6, 2020
The 2020 Acura rdx is amazing!
I actually just got this vehicle a month ago but so far I love it. Some of the features I love are the navigation system, the sound system, and how smoothly it drives. The car offers 3 different driving styles, comfort, sport and sport plus. The car is good on gas. The seats are extremely comfortable. This is my 3rd Acura rdx and this new model is by far the best one I have had! I took it on a long road trip and rode the entire way comfortably! The safety features for staying in your lane, blind sports and backup hazards are excellent! I would say the only thing I do not like about it is the steering wheel adjustment and the dashboard options. I do not think the steering wheel goes down low enough and I think the dashboard options are too busy. I think what is showing up on the dashboard should be simple so your not looking at too much stuff while your driving. I would rate this vehicle a 9.5/10.
accountCircle Dave burrows on October 30, 2020
Disappointed
Idle engine unavailable comes up.why[needs more info to be a complete review]
accountCircle Marissa S on October 19, 2020
Modern look- very sporty but elegant.
Great car very reliable. Would recommend any make and model of Acura. Great customer service as well. I had a 2015 rdx before this current car and loved it so much I got the 2020 model. Definitely 10/10 stars for reliability, customer service, speed, accuracy.
accountCircle Bridget B on October 17, 2020
Peppy with plenty of space.
This vehicle provided a lot of space (cargo and seating, my 6'4' husband is able to comfortably sit in the back seat). It has a great infotainment system with built in navigation that comes without extra cost. It also has enough horsepower to feel 'peppy' for an SUV. I recently traded in a small sports car for something larger as our family grows and do not miss it.
accountCircle emilio R on October 13, 2020
Acura’s are very reliable and comfortable.
The car is really reliable and since it is a Honda it has a really good engine and transmission. Also it has all the comfort you need and the technology you deserve and want in a car. Plus it has that Japanese trim and appearance, it also has leather seats which make the car a big luxury car.
accountCircle Jason C on October 5, 2020
The 2020 Acura rdx is an excellent choice.
Overall, the 2020 rdx offers up a high-quality interior that leaves no room for feeling like you are in anything but a premium vehicle. The seating is very comfortable and in the front row your ideal seat position is very easily found thanks to the 12-way power adjust function along with lumbar support. As well, the a-spec package alcantara leather and contrasting stitching give real pop to the sharp black-and-red color scheme. My tester for the week was decked in the a-spec package, which does not alter the performance of the SUV but does much to make that sleek outer shell (and premium interior) that much more seductive. It sticks the rdx on bigger 20-inch alloy wheels (and wider tires), and gives it distinctive black trim both inside and outside, led fog lights, power-folding side mirrors, special badging, etc. You also get a premium 16-speaker els studio surround-sound audio system, heated steering wheel, alcantara leather seating with contrasting stitching, metal sport pedals. I think buyers will find it hard to resist the small extra splurge required to get this package that really enhances the visual appeal of the rdx.
accountCircle Clarence L on October 4, 2020
Title: Acura rdx a-spec - cannot beat it, buy it or lease it!
I only buy Acura automobiles. The rdx a-spec is an advanced automobile with the latest features incorporating technology to get better gas mileage, performance and driving experience. Different drive modes, turbo charge, panoramic moonroof, 20 inch tires and a respectable mpg rating are but a few features which distinguish the Acura a-spec rdx from the many other SUVs on the road. The styling is smart, sharp and subtle. With a high 'build quality' the 2020 Acura rdx a-spec will hold retain a high resale value and is also a excellent automobile to consider leasing. For the money, one of the best buys on the market in its class.
accountCircle Lynn J on October 1, 2020
Acura rdx 2020 awesome ride.
The 2020 Acura rdx is a fully equipped, super comfortable vehicle. The ride is smooth and it has many great features that we love. It has lane assist so you do not cross over the line, the engine shuts off when idle. I love the screen and mouse pad to operate the radio, Sirius, and apple play. The car itself is awesome. Super reliable, comfortable for my tall family of 4. The glass roof is really cool and the buttons make it easy to slide it open. I love voice texting while I am driving.
accountCircle John Bund on September 28, 2020
Heat
The 2020 RDX has more power because of the turbo engine which output excessive heat and inside the cabin. The V6 or V4 non turbo are still preferable. Excessive power gets you more ticket.
accountCircle Ro W on September 26, 2020
My review of a 2020 Acura rdx.
No problems yet. It is very easy to drive handles well and worth the price for entry level luxury. Acura is affordable luxury and sporty with Honda reliability. For the price is the vehicle and coverage for insurance I will always keep an Acura in my driveway/garage.
accountCircle Sophia K on September 24, 2020
Good power. I do like the power the car has.
I do not like the air conditioner it does not blow out enough air not enough air vents in the car especially in the back. I am also not very happy with the seats in the front. I do not find the driver's seat to adjust very well. I do not like the full sunroof it lets to much air and noise in.
accountCircle Ida F on September 23, 2020
Just the sexiness of the car it is so gorgeous.
My 2020 Acura rdx is gorgeous! I bought the car because of how it stood out to me I was looking for a car that could replace my old car I got into a accident with and it is even better I got the car in white. The car is very large you can fit anything in it.
accountCircle Adam B on September 22, 2020
Love my aspec rdx! Great vehicle!
Love my aspec rdx! It is luxury and performance all in one, while having plenty of room too. No problems whatsoever, just a fun nice upscale vehicle. AWD is great too. The exterior is aggressive and the apex blue is absolutely a head turner. Just a great vehicle that I love to dive. Put it in sport plus mode and use paddle shifters for a great time, oh and the audio system is sweet!
accountCircle Ataur Q on September 14, 2020
Perfect blend of sports & luxury.
It is perfect blend of luxury & sports performance. The infotainment system is not the best out there. But it is certainly better than what you get in a Lexus. So far I have enjoyed driving it thoroughly. Do not regret my purchase. Always wanted to own an Acura.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.