Are Acuras a smooth ride?
Yes. Acuras generally offer a smooth, refined ride with quiet cabins and composed handling, though sportier trims can be firmer to emphasize agility.
Across its lineup, Acura prioritizes comfort alongside driving dynamics, delivering vehicles that glide over highway surfaces while remaining confident on winding roads. This piece examines what makes Acuras ride smoothly, how different models compare, and what buyers should consider when shopping for comfort.
What makes Acuras ride smooth
These are the common factors that contribute to a smooth ride across Acura’s current lineup.
- Refined powertrains with smooth, predictable transmission behavior.
- Independent suspension tuning that balances comfort with capable handling.
- Cabin design and insulation that minimize road and wind noise.
- Chassis damping and tuning that absorb surface imperfections without feeling floaty.
- Available adaptive dampers or suspension enhancements that adjust to road conditions.
- Consideration for wheel and tire sizing that favors comfort over extreme sportiness.
In practice, these elements combine to create a ride that feels poised and quiet on long trips, with dependable manners on a variety of road surfaces and weather conditions.
Ride quality by model line
Here is a quick look at how different Acura models tend to approach ride comfort, based on current offerings and typical configurations.
- MDX — A large, three-row SUV known for a serene highway ride, strong refinement, and ample interior space, making it a favored choice for families and long trips.
- RDX — A compact SUV that blends a refined, comfortable feel with sharper handling; generally very capable on mixed roads with a balance of quietness and steadiness.
- TLX — The sedan lineup emphasizes everyday comfort with a smooth ride; the base and mid-range trims tend to be composed, while the high-performance TLX Type S leans firmer for sharper handling.
- Integra — A compact sedan that offers nimble driving dynamics and a comfortable ride for its class, though it prioritizes sportier feel more than a large luxury comfort ride.
- NSX — A high-performance hybrid; its ride is engineered for speed and precision, not plush luxury, though it remains well-sorted for its performance remit.
For most buyers, MDX and RDX deliver the easiest-to-live-with comfort, while TLX and Integra balance sportier handling with practicality. If a plush, quiet ride is the top priority, larger SUVs tend to be the strongest candidates within the lineup.
Comfort-focused buying considerations
To ensure the ride meets your expectations, consider these factors when evaluating an Acura in person or on a test drive.
- Wheel size and tire choice: Larger wheels with low-profile tires can feel stiffer on rough pavement, while touring tires and smaller wheels generally provide more cushion.
- Drive modes and dampers: Models with adaptive dampers or comfort-oriented drive settings can significantly soften the ride on poor roads.
- Seat ergonomics: Cushioning, seat support, and adjustability can influence long-drive comfort as much as suspension tuning.
- Road type and conditions: Test on highways, city streets, and uneven surfaces where you’ll drive most often to gauge real-world comfort.
Note that sportier trims (such as the TLX Type S) typically prioritize handling and acceleration over a super-soft ride. If comfort is paramount, seek trims with comfort-oriented tuning and appropriate tire setups.
Comfort vs. sport tuning
ACura’s lineup often blends comfort with sport performance. When shopping, prioritize models and trims that emphasize softer suspension tuning, moderate wheel/tire size, and drive modes geared toward comfort to maximize serenity on daily commutes and long trips.
Summary
Across its range, Acura generally delivers a smooth, refined driving experience, with the MDX and RDX standing out for quiet, comfortable highway cruising. Sedans like the TLX and compact Integra offer a balance between comfort and sport, while high-performance models like the NSX shift toward precision and speed over plushness. For buyers focused on comfort, test drives should emphasize trunk road surfaces, highway stability, and seat comfort across the trims you’re considering. In short, Acuras are a solid choice for a smooth ride, with options that can lean toward sportier character if desired.
What is the most common problem with Acura?
A common problem for Acura models includes transmission issues in older models and occasional electrical malfunctions.
What Acura to stay away from?
According to CarComplaints.com, the 2003 model is one of the most problematic Acura TL years, with over 400+ NHTSA user complaints. This car's top three most prominent problems are transmission failure, car shakes during acceleration, and the peeling clear coat.
Do Acuras drive smoothly?
Paired with smooth handling and a responsive drive, the ADX provides a refined yet exhilarating experience that elevates every journey.
Is the Acura TLX a smooth ride?
The Acura TLX's front wheels have a double wishbone suspension: the same type used in Formula 1 race cars. While this design is more complex than other suspension systems, it provides several advantages, including a smoother ride on bumpy roads.
