Does 2024 RDX need premium gas?
The 2024 Acura RDX generally benefits from premium gasoline, with octane recommendations varying by engine. For the common 2.0-liter turbo, 91-octane or higher is recommended for best performance, while the high-performance Type S requires 93-octane fuel. Regular 87-octane gasoline is not advised if you want maximum power and efficiency, though the vehicle may run on lower-octane fuel in a pinch. Always consult the owner’s manual for your exact trim and regional specifications.
Fuel octane requirements by engine
Below is a concise guide to octane needs based on the RDX powertrain offered in 2024 models.
- 2.0L turbo (standard and most trims): Premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher is recommended to maintain peak performance and efficiency.
- RDX Type S (3.0L turbo V6): Premium gasoline with an octane rating of 93 or higher is required to achieve its advertised horsepower and torque.
In short, the rule of thumb is to use premium fuel that meets or exceeds the octane specified for your engine, and to upgrade to the higher octane for the Type S to preserve performance.
Why octane matters for the RDX
Turbocharged engines like the RDX rely on higher-octane fuel to resist knocking under boost. Using the recommended octane allows the engine to run with advanced timing and full power output. Running on lower-octane fuel can trigger engine knock, reduce throttle response, and diminish acceleration and fuel economy, especially under heavy loads or spirited driving.
What to expect if you use lower-octane fuel
If 87-octane gasoline is used in a 2024 RDX equipped with the 2.0L turbo, you may notice slower acceleration, less responsiveness, and a potential decrease in efficiency. The engine control system may retard timing to prevent knocking, which can blunt performance. The Type S, with its higher-performance setup, is more sensitive to octane and is specifically tuned for premium fuel.
Practical fueling guidance for daily driving
To minimize surprises and maximize warranty-aligned performance, consider these practical steps.
- Fuel with premium (91 octane or higher) if your trim calls for it, or if you routinely push the accelerator hard.
- If you’re in a pinch and must use a lower-octane fuel, plan for a few days of gentler driving and avoid demanding conditions until you can refuel with the recommended octane.
- Always verify the octane specification in your specific owner’s manual or on the fuel-filler door sticker, as regional variations can occur.
Following the manufacturer’s octane guidance helps preserve performance, efficiency, and potential warranty considerations.
Summary
For the 2024 RDX, premium gasoline is recommended for optimal performance. The base 2.0L turbo benefits from 91-octane fuel or higher, while the top-tier Type S requires 93-octane fuel to achieve its stated performance levels. Regular 87-octane fuel is not advised for these engines, particularly under heavy driving. Always check your exact trim’s manual for the precise octane recommendation, and plan fueling accordingly to maintain peak performance and efficiency.
