What Acura SUV is made in Japan?
None of Acura’s current SUVs are produced in Japan. The RDX and MDX are manufactured at North American plants, so there is no Japanese-assembled Acura SUV in the lineup today.
Where Acura SUVs are typically manufactured
To understand the answer, it helps to know where Acura’s SUV models are assembled. In recent years, Acura’s compact and midsize SUVs have been built primarily in Honda’s plants in the United States and Canada, rather than in Japan. This reflects Honda/Acura’s global manufacturing strategy that emphasizes proximity to major markets and efficient supply chains.
- Acura RDX — produced in North America (primarily Canada/USA) for global distribution. It is not built in Japan.
- Acura MDX — produced in North America (primarily USA) for global distribution. It is not built in Japan.
Production site assignments can shift over model years due to plant capacity, supplier arrangements, and regional demand, but as of today there is no Acura SUV assembled in Japan.
Historical context and branding
Historically, Acura has focused its Japanese manufacturing on non-SUV vehicles and on different models that are sold in or sourced from Japan, while the luxury SUV lineup for global markets has been anchored in North American production. The NSX sports car is the closest example of a Honda/Acura performance model associated with domestic production in the U.S. or other markets, but it is not an SUV. This context helps explain why there isn’t a Japanese-assembled Acura SUV in current production.
Summary
In short, there is no Acura SUV made in Japan. The RDX and MDX are built in North American facilities, and Acura’s SUV production does not include Japan as a manufacturing site for these models. If you’re targeting a Japanese-made vehicle, you would need to consider other brands or non-SUV Honda options, but within Acura’s SUV lineup, Japan is not a production location.
How much of Acura RDX is made in the USA?
If you value American-made products, then Acura is happy to tell you that the entire lineup is made in the United States.
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.
Which Acura is made in Japan?
While the majority of Acura's production happens in North America, Acura's roots are deeply tied to Japan, where Honda was founded. The Japanese production facilities are responsible for creating select high-performance models, including the Acura NSX.
What year of Acura RDX to stay away from?
The Acura RDX years to avoid are generally the 2015, 2019, and 2021 models due to significant issues. The 2019 is often cited as the worst, especially the first model year of the third generation, with problems like engine stalling and power loss. Other years with notable problems include the 2013, 2014, and 2018.
This video discusses common problems with the Acura RDX, including potential engine, transmission, and electrical issues: 59sHey, ask your dadYouTube · May 24, 2025
Years to be cautious about
- 2013-2015: These years can have transmission issues like rough shifting and slipping, and some models may have engine oil leaks.
- 2015: In addition to transmission problems, this model year had issues with airbags and the soy-based wiring insulation attracted animals.
- 2018: Reported transmission problems and potential engine issues like head gasket or timing chain problems have been noted.
- 2019: This is widely considered the least reliable model year, particularly because it was the first year of a new generation. Owners have reported engine stalling, power loss, and issues with the rear glass shattering.
- 2021: This year experienced issues with the transmission, brakes, and engine stalling due to a potential intercooler design flaw that could let moisture into the engine.
What to do if buying used
- Thoroughly inspect any used model for the specific issues mentioned above.
- If considering one of these years, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.
- Check for service records and recall history.
This video demonstrates how to inspect an Acura RDX for potential issues, including engine oil leaks and suspension problems: 58sBCauto_YouTube · Aug 21, 2024
