Is the Acura RDX V4 or V-6?
The Acura RDX is a popular luxury compact SUV known for its performance, reliability, and advanced features. If you're considering purchasing or maintaining an Acura RDX, you might wonder whether it comes equipped with a V4 or V6 engine. Let’s dive into the details to clarify this question and explore the engine options available for the Acura RDX.
Understanding Engine Configurations: V4 vs. V6
Before we address the specific engine in the Acura RDX, it’s important to understand the difference between a V4 and a V6 engine:
- V4 Engine: A V4 engine has four cylinders arranged in a "V" shape. This configuration is compact and efficient, often found in smaller vehicles or those prioritizing fuel economy.
- V6 Engine: A V6 engine has six cylinders arranged in a "V" shape. It provides more power and smoother performance, making it ideal for larger vehicles or those designed for higher performance.
The Acura RDX Engine: What’s Under the Hood?
The Acura RDX does not feature a V4 engine. Instead, it is equipped with a turbocharged inline-4 engine. This engine is often referred to as an "I4" or "inline-four," which means the four cylinders are arranged in a straight line rather than a "V" shape. The current generation of the Acura RDX (as of 2025) comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that delivers impressive power and efficiency.
In earlier generations, the Acura RDX was available with a V6 engine. For example, the second-generation RDX (2013–2018) featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which provided robust performance. However, Acura transitioned to the turbocharged inline-4 engine in the third generation (2019–present) to enhance fuel efficiency while maintaining strong performance.
Why Did Acura Switch to an Inline-4 Engine?
The decision to move from a V6 to a turbocharged inline-4 engine in the Acura RDX was driven by several factors:
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Turbocharged inline-4 engines are generally more fuel-efficient than V6 engines, making them a better choice for modern drivers concerned about gas mileage.
- Compact Design: The smaller size of an inline-4 engine allows for better weight distribution and more space for other vehicle components.
- Comparable Performance: Thanks to turbocharging technology, the inline-4 engine in the RDX delivers power and torque comparable to the older V6 engine, ensuring a dynamic driving experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, the Acura RDX is not equipped with a V4 or V6 engine in its current generation. Instead, it features a turbocharged inline-4 engine that balances performance and efficiency. If you’re considering an older model, you may find a V6 engine in second-generation RDX vehicles. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to help with all your Acura maintenance and repair needs, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly no matter what’s under the hood!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Acura SUV is 4-cylinder?
Acura SUVs Compared
| 2025 Acura ADX | 2025 Acura RDX | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-Liter Turbocharged VTEC 4-Cylinder | 2.0-Liter Turbo Aluminum-alloy 4-Cylinder with direct injection and i-VTEC® valvetrain |
| All-Wheel Drive | Available | Standard |
| Max Cargo Volume | 55.1 cubic feet | 79.8 cubic feet |
| Max Headroom (front / 2nd / 3rd row) | TBA / TBA | 40 / 38 inches |
When did the Acura RDX go to a 4-cylinder?
2019
The third installment of the Acura RDX for model years 2019 and onward reverted to turbo-four power, borrowing its 2.0L engine from the Accord and Civic Type R, here in 272-hp tune and linked to a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
Does Acura have a 6 cylinder engine?
Experience the exhilarating rush of 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque from the 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine inside the Acura TLX Type S. This athletic sedan rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, leaving the competition in its dust.
Is the Acura MDX 4 or 6 cylinder?
A 355-HP * Turbo V-6 engine propels the 2025 MDX Type S Advance through every drive with adrenaline-inducing performance.
Is the Acura RDX a 4 or 6 cylinder?
4-Cylinder
The Acura RDX has 272 horsepower, which is produced by its impressive Turbo Aluminium-Alloy 2.0L 4-Cylinder with VTEC®.
What is the difference between RDX engine and MDX engine?
MDX engines are very different. Rather than a V-6, the RDX uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. This engine makes 272 horsepower, less horsepower than the standard MDX engine. However, the standard RDX engine generates 280 pound-feet of torque, which is more potent than the standard MDX engine.
What is the most common problem with Acura RDX?
Common problems with the 2021 Acura RDX include Engine problems, transmission problems, and brake problems. Two recalls have been issued for this vehicle, one for airbags not properly deploying and one for the driveshaft failing.
What Acura has a 5 cylinder engine?
The TL, "Touring Luxury," debuted for the 1996 model year with the 2.5 TL available with the 2.5 L 176 hp (131 kW) SOHC 20-valve 5-cylinder engine from the Vigor, and the 3.2 TL using the 3.2 L 200 hp (149 kW) SOHC 24v V6 from the second-generation Acura Legend.
When did the Acura RDX go to a 4 cylinder?
2019
The third installment of the Acura RDX for model years 2019 and onward reverted to turbo-four power, borrowing its 2.0L engine from the Accord and Civic Type R, here in 272-hp tune and linked to a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
Are all RDX V6?
Every RDX is powered by a 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive (or "SH-AWD" in Acura-speak).
