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Is Acura RDX v4 or V6?

The Acura RDX is equipped with a V6 engine, not a V4. The current generation of the Acura RDX, which was introduced in 2019, features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine that produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.


Detailed Explanation


The Acura RDX is a compact luxury crossover SUV produced by Honda's luxury division, Acura. Since its introduction in 2006, the RDX has gone through several generations, with the latest model being the third-generation version that debuted in 2019.


The key engine specifications for the current Acura RDX are as follows:



  • Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder

  • Horsepower: 272 hp

  • Torque: 280 lb-ft

  • Transmission: 10-speed automatic


As you can see, the Acura RDX is equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, not a V6 or V4 configuration. This engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency for the RDX, which is designed to be a sporty and responsive luxury crossover.


It's worth noting that in the past, some earlier generations of the Acura RDX did feature a V6 engine option. However, the current third-generation model has moved to a more modern and efficient turbocharged four-cylinder as the standard powertrain.

Is a 4-cylinder turbo better than a V6?


A turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is often better for fuel economy and emissions, while a V6 is traditionally better for smooth power delivery and overall horsepower, although modern turbos are increasingly closing the performance gap. The "better" option depends on priorities: a 4-cylinder turbo excels at efficiency and offers high torque, while a V6 provides more immediate and consistent power, often with a smoother feel, though modern turbos are now powerful enough to match or exceed many V6 engines in performance. 
This video compares the performance and feel of a 4-cylinder turbo engine versus a V6 engine in a mid-sized truck: 1mBros FOURR SpeedYouTube · Jun 22, 2024
Turbocharged 4-cylinder

  • Pros:
    • Better fuel economy and lower emissions. 
    • Can produce high torque at low RPMs, making it feel strong in everyday driving. 
    • Lighter and more compact, which can improve handling and vehicle packaging. 
    • More potential for modification to achieve high power levels. 
  • Cons:
    • May have a slight delay in acceleration (turbo lag). 
    • Can generate more heat, which may require more robust cooling systems and potentially lead to higher maintenance costs over time. 
    • May not have the same inherent smoothness as a V6 due to fewer cylinders. 

You can watch this video to see how a 4-cylinder turbo engine performs compared to a V6 engine in a pickup truck: 1mRudyCarsYouTube · Jun 26, 2024
V6
  • Pros:
    • Traditionally offers higher horsepower and torque, leading to strong acceleration. 
    • Smoother and more refined power delivery due to more frequent power pulses. 
    • Often better for towing and hauling heavy loads due to higher torque output. 
  • Cons:
    • Generally lower fuel economy and higher emissions compared to a 4-cylinder turbo. 
    • Larger and heavier, which can affect vehicle handling and packaging. 
    • Maintenance can be more complex and costly, especially on front-wheel-drive vehicles. 

This video discusses the performance and capabilities of 4-cylinder turbo engines in pickup trucks: 55sJason SamkoYouTube · Dec 22, 2024



Is the RDX a 4 or 6 cylinder?


4-Cylinder
The 2021 Acura RDX provides smooth and easy speed. Pulling from its exhilarating 2.0-liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder engine, the RDX can accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in just 6.5 seconds.



Does the Acura RDX have a V6?


No, the current Acura RDX does not have a V6 engine; it has been replaced by a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four engine since the 2019 model year. Previous generations, specifically the second generation (2013-2018), did come with a 3.5L V6 engine. 
Current generation (2019 - present)

  • Engine: 2.0L turbocharged inline-four
  • Horsepower: 272 hp
  • Transmission: 10-speed automatic 

Previous generation (2013-2018) 
  • Engine: 3.5L V6
  • Horsepower: 270-279 hp, depending on the model year
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic 



Which Acura SUV is 4-cylinder?


Acura has two SUV models with 4-cylinder engines: the compact ADX and the RDX. The ADX is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, while the RDX uses a more powerful 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The MDX does not have a 4-cylinder engine; it is equipped with a V6.
 
This video discusses the updated 2025 Acura RDX, highlighting its 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine: 56sMotormouthYouTube · Feb 19, 2025
Acura ADX

  • Engine: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Horsepower: 190 hp
  • Torque: 179 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT)
  • Drive: Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available 

This video is a review of the 2025 Acura ADX, focusing on its 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and CVT transmission: 46sTheStraightPipesYouTube · Mar 31, 2025
Acura RDX
  • Engine: 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Horsepower: 272 hp
  • Torque: 280 lb-ft
  • Transmission: 10-speed automatic
  • Drive: All-wheel drive is standard on the 2025 model 


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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.