Does RDX have a 3rd row?
The short answer is no: the Acura RDX is a five‑seat, two‑row compact luxury SUV and does not offer a third row. For seven‑seat capability, most buyers turn to its larger sibling, the MDX.
In today's market, the RDX sits as Acura's smaller, sportier option within the brand’s lineup. It prioritizes a premium, performance‑oriented interior and practical cargo space over adding a third row of seating. The MDX, by contrast, was designed from the ground up to accommodate more passengers with a traditional third row. This distinction helps explain why shoppers interested in seven seats are steered toward the MDX rather than the RDX.
Seating and configuration
The RDX standardly seats five across two rows. In some trims, buyers can opt for second‑row captain’s chairs, which reduces total seating to four but can improve rear passenger comfort and access. Regardless of the second‑row setup, there is no factory option or variant that adds a third row to the RDX.
Practical space without a third row
Even without a third row, the RDX offers a respectable amount of cargo space for a compact luxury SUV. Roughly 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space exists behind the rear seats, expanding to about 58.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. These figures vary slightly by model year and trim, but the two‑row, five‑seat layout remains a constant.
MDX as the three‑row alternative
For buyers who need seven seats, Acura directs attention to the MDX, its larger three‑row SUV. The MDX provides a true third row and can be configured for seven passengers, or five with a more premium second‑row setup. The MDX shares some design language and features with the RDX but is engineered to maximize passenger capacity and interior space.
Bottom line
If your priority is a RDX specifically, you should expect two rows of seating only—no third row. If seven seats are essential, the MDX is the appropriate Acura model to consider within the same brand family. The RDX remains a strong choice for buyers seeking a compact, premium, two‑row SUV with solid performance and cargo flexibility.
Summary
The RDX does not offer a third row; it is a five‑passenger, two‑row SUV. For a true seven‑seat option, look to the MDX, Acura’s larger three‑row counterpart. This distinction helps buyers choose between two distinct roles: sportier two‑row practicality (RDX) versus family‑friendly three‑row versatility (MDX).
Which is more reliable, Acura RDX or MDX?
The Acura RDX has a slightly better overall reliability rating than the MDX, with a higher rating on RepairPal (4.5/54.5 / 54.5/5 vs. 4.0/54.0 / 54.0/5) and lower average annual repair costs. However, both models are considered reliable, with major issues being uncommon for both. The choice between the two may come down to factors like size, price, and performance, rather than a significant reliability gap.
Acura RDX vs. MDX reliability breakdown
| Feature | Acura RDX | Acura MDX |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Reliability | Higher: 4.5/54.5 / 54.5/5 (1st out of 11 luxury compact SUVs) | Lower: 4.0/54.0 / 54.0/5 (2nd out of 14 luxury midsize SUVs) |
| Average Annual Repair Cost | Lower: $497$ 497$497 (below average) | Higher: $571$ 571$571 (average) |
| Severity of Repairs | Low | Low |
| Frequency of Issues | Average | Average |
| Major Issues | Uncommon | Uncommon |
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Other factors to consider
- Price: The RDX has a lower starting price.
- Size: The MDX is a larger, three-row SUV, while the RDX is a smaller, two-row SUV.
- Performance: The MDX offers a more powerful V6 engine and higher towing capacity, while the RDX's turbocharged 4-cylinder is more fuel-efficient.
- Features: The MDX may come standard with more advanced features due to its higher price point.
Does the Acura RDX have a 3rd row?
While the 2025 Acura RDX has two rows of seating, a family of five can still fit comfortably in the spacious cabin. In addition to being spacious, the cabin is also versatile, with intelligently engineered rear cargo underfloor storage and 60/40-split rear seats.
What is the lawsuit against the Acura RDX?
In the case, plaintiffs alleged that America Honda Motor Co., Inc. (“AHM”) knowingly sold its 2019-2020 Acura RDX vehicles with defective infotainment systems that behaved erratically, malfunctioned, and repeatedly froze, thereby distracting the driver and posing a safety hazard.
Is the Acura RDX a 7 seater?
The 2025 Acura RDX is a two-row compact SUV that can comfortably seat up to five people. If you're interested in a seven-seater SUV, turn to the 2025 Acura MDX instead, which can accommodate up to seven people.
