Is 2019 Acura RDX a good year?
The 2019 Acura RDX is generally considered a good year for the model, offering a strong turbocharged engine, a refined interior, and a solid set of safety features that place it well within the compact-luxury SUV field.
Overview: what changed in 2019
Powertrain and chassis
In 2019 Acura gave the RDX a comprehensive redesign, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing about 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a modern 10-speed automatic transmission and available SH-AWD (super handling all‑wheel drive) for improved grip and handling. The redesign also brought a longer wheelbase, lighter weight, and a smoother ride, which collectively helped the RDX feel more upscale and composed than its predecessor.
Interior and technology
The interior received a significant upgrade with higher-quality materials, more spacious seating, and a quieter cabin. Tech features include a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a long list of safety aids, and a large touchscreen paired with a traditional control knob—an arrangement some drivers either praise for its layout or find less intuitive.
Pros you’ll typically hear from critics and owners include:
- Powerful turbo engine with confident acceleration and strong mid‑range torque.
- Upscale cabin with comfortable seating and premium materials.
- Quiet ride with good noise isolation and a smooth highway character.
- Comprehensive standard safety gear and solid crash-test performance.
- Strong resale value and a reputation for reliability within the segment.
In short, these strengths helped position the 2019 RDX as a compelling alternative to European rivals in its class.
Ownership, reliability, and costs to know
The 2019 RDX tends to rank well for reliability in the luxury compact SUV category, and Acura’s reputation for durable engines and solid dealer support helps with long-term ownership value. As with any used car, real-world ownership costs depend on maintenance history, mileage, and how well the vehicle has been cared for. Prospective buyers should budget for routine maintenance, potential tires and brakes, and the possibility of software updates to keep the infotainment and driver-assistance features current.
What to watch for when evaluating a used 2019 RDX:
- Infotainment quirks or lag and ensure CarPlay/Android Auto functionality works as expected.
- Condition of tires, brakes, and suspension components, especially if the vehicle has SH-AWD.
- Complete recall and service history; ensure any outstanding software updates or safety recalls are addressed.
- Seat comfort and cabin wear in higher-mileage examples, since luxurious interiors can show wear over time.
These considerations help determine whether a specific used 2019 RDX will meet your expectations for reliability and total cost of ownership.
Safety, practicality, and what buyers should consider
The 2019 RDX earned favorable safety ratings and comes equipped with a strong set of standard and available driver-assistance features. Its handling and ride quality strike a balance between comfort and responsiveness, making it a practical daily driver for many families and professionals. Cargo space and seating are well-suited to a typical small family or active lifestyle, though it remains a five-passenger SUV rather than a larger three-row model.
- Strong safety suite with features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.
- Smooth, confident handling with available SH-AWD for improved traction in adverse conditions.
- Competitive interior refinement and cargo flexibility for a compact luxury SUV.
- Infotainment interface can feel less intuitive to some users due to the center-console control layout.
Overall, the 2019 RDX performs well in safety, practicality, and daily usability, making it a strong candidate in the used-luxury SUV market.
Who should consider the 2019 RDX?
Buyers seeking a premium-feel interior, strong turbo performance, and a well-rounded set of safety features will likely be satisfied with a 2019 RDX. It is especially appealing for those who want a quiet, comfortable ride without paying European-brand prices. If you prioritize the latest in infotainment ergonomics or need maximum trunk space, you may want to compare it against rivals in the segment.
Summary
In sum, the 2019 Acura RDX is a solid choice in the compact luxury SUV class. It delivers a compelling blend of power, interior quality, safety features, and resale value. Its main caveats are the infotainment interface for some users and price sensitivity relative to rivals. For a well-maintained example with a complete service history, the 2019 RDX remains a good year to consider for buyers in the market for a premium, practical SUV with strong overall appeal.
