What is the difference between Acura RDX A-Spec and advanced?

The Acura RDX A-Spec and Advance are two distinct trims designed for different buyer priorities: one emphasizes sport styling and handling, the other prioritizes luxury and comfort. Both rides share the same core drivetrain, but they diverge in design, features, and feel.

A-Spec: Sporty styling and performance cues

Exterior design

The A-Spec model stands out with sport-oriented exterior cues that set it apart from the standard RDX. This trim typically includes distinctive styling elements and wheels that give the SUV a more aggressive look.

• Exclusive exterior design elements, including unique front fascia and badging


• Large, sport-focused wheels (commonly around 20 inches) with dark or machined finishes


• Afrative accent trim and specialized grille treatment to emphasize a performance vibe


• Sport-tuned or firmer ride cues and sport-inspired exhaust finishers

In short, A-Spec is about visual and handling cues that convey a sportier personality on the road.

Interior and features

The interior of the A-Spec blends sport touches with practical comfort, focusing on a dynamic feel rather than pure luxury. Expect design details that emphasize performance without abandoning daily usability.

• Sport seats with contrast stitching and possible suede-like insert accents


• Sporty interior trim and metal pedals to enhance the driving feel


• Drive mode options that emphasize sport performance and throttle response


• Paddle shifters and other performance-oriented controls as part of the package

Overall, A-Spec prioritizes a bold, athletic character in both appearance and drive dynamics.

Advance: Luxury-focused top trim

Interior and comfort

The Advance trim is the flagship luxury-focused option, designed to maximize comfort, materials, and convenience for daily driving and long trips. It typically adds premium seating and upscale touches that elevate the cabin experience.

• Milano leather or high-quality leather seating surfaces with refined stitching


• Ventilated front seats and often heated steering wheel for cold-weather comfort


• Enhanced interior materials and sound-damping upgrades for a quieter ride


• Premium comfort features such as available heated rear seats in some years

In essence, Advance leans toward premium ambiance and comfort, making the cabin feel more luxurious for all occupants.

Technology and safety

Advance typically bundles more advanced technology and safety features, focusing on convenience, connectivity, and driver assistance to improve daily usability and confidence behind the wheel.

• Advanced infotainment with larger display options and navigation in many years


• Premium audio options and enhanced connectivity features


• Expanded driver-assistance suite and convenience technologies such as surround-view camera systems


• Wireless charging and additional comfort-oriented tech is often included

For buyers who prize luxury, the Advance trim packages substantial comfort and high-end tech into one premium offering.

Quick comparison highlights

Both trims share the same core powertrain and most safety systems, but they diverge in focus. A-Spec targets sportier styling and a more spirited driving character, while Advance emphasizes luxury, comfort, and premium features. Year-by-year specifics can vary, so checking the latest brochure or dealer spec is advised.

Price positioning and model-year note

As a rule, the A-Spec is positioned below the Advance on the price ladder, reflecting its sport-oriented focus rather than pure luxury. Exact pricing and feature bundling can shift between model years, so confirm the current year’s equipment lists when comparing trims.

Summary

The Acura RDX A-Spec and Advance cater to different preferences: A-Spec delivers a sportier aesthetic and driving nuance with performance-inspired details, while Advance delivers a more luxurious, feature-rich experience with elevated comfort and tech. For those prioritizing edge, visual drama, and handling, A-Spec is typically the pick; for buyers valuing premium materials, comfort, and convenience in daily driving, Advance is the stronger option. Always verify the latest year’s standard features, packages, and availability with an Acura dealer to ensure an exact match to your preferences.

What year of Acura RDX to stay away from?

The 2019 Acura RDX is the model year most frequently cited to avoid due to a high number of owner complaints, especially concerning engine stalling/power loss and infotainment system issues. Other model years to approach with caution are the 2015 and 2018 due to transmission problems, and the 2014 for various electrical and transmission issues. Some owners also reported shattering rear glass on 2019-2022 models, though this seems to be random.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the potential problems with the Acura RDX: 52sHey, ask your dadYouTube · May 24, 2025
Years to avoid

• 2019: This model year had the most complaints and was the first year of a new generation, resulting in significant teething issues. 
  • Engine stalling: A major problem reported was the engine stalling at highway speeds or entering "limp mode". 
  • Infotainment system: The infotainment system was prone to freezing and laggy performance. 
  • Other issues: Some owners reported issues with squealing brakes, sunroof leaks, and shattering rear glass. 
• 2015: This model year continued to have problems from previous years and is associated with transmission issues. 
  • Transmission problems: Issues include rough shifting, slipping, and other gear-related failures. 
  • Infotainment system: The infotainment system was also problematic, with freezes and lag. 
  • Electrical and other issues: Owners reported persistent headlight dimming and electrical system glitches. 
• 2018: This model year had some recalls and reported issues, particularly with the transmission. 
  • Transmission problems: Similar to the 2015, issues with rough shifting and slipping were reported. 
  • Engine problems: There were reports of potential engine issues, though they may be less common. 
• 2014: Some owners reported transmission issues and other electrical problems with this model year. 
  • Transmission problems: Rough shifting was a common complaint. 
  • Electrical problems: Issues with malfunctioning dashboard lights and sensors were reported. 
  • Other issues: Sunroof leaks were also an issue in this model year. 

Other considerations

• 2020-2022: While generally more reliable than the 2019, some owners of these models reported issues with the engine's intercooler, which could cause power loss or stalling. This was often covered by a service bulletin and warranty. Shattering rear glass was also randomly reported in this range of years. 
• Takata airbags: Many Acura RDX models, particularly older ones, were subject to a massive recall for faulty Takata airbags. Be sure to check if a specific vehicle's recall has been addressed. 

What is the lawsuit against the Acura RDX?

There are several lawsuits against the Acura RDX, with the most prominent being related to the infotainment system for 2019-2020 models, which resulted in a class-action settlement. Other active lawsuits and investigations concern a potential defect causing rear windshields to spontaneously shatter in 2019-2023 models and alleged transmission problems in various Acura models, including the RDX. There have also been claims and investigations regarding unintended deceleration and stalling issues in some 2019-2020 models.
 
Infotainment System (2019-2020 models)

• Lawsuit: A class-action lawsuit alleged that the infotainment systems in 2019-2020 RDX vehicles were defective, frequently freezing, crashing, or failing to connect devices. 
• Settlement: A nationwide settlement was reached, providing benefits such as a warranty extension, a dealership assistance program, and compensation for inconvenience and out-of-pocket expenses for affected owners. 

Shattering Rear Windshields (2019-2023 models) 

• Lawsuit/Investigation: A class-action lawsuit was filed alleging that the rear windshields on 2019-2023 models can spontaneously shatter or break without impact, potentially due to the rear defroster. 
• Safety concerns: The lawsuit states this poses a safety risk, as it can startle drivers and cause them to swerve. 
• Current status: This lawsuit is ongoing, with investigations into the issue and potential class-action status. 

Transmission and Deceleration Problems (2019-2020 models)

• Lawsuit/Investigation: Lawsuits have been filed alleging a dangerous defect where vehicles may decelerate unexpectedly or stall when the driver presses the gas pedal.
• Symptoms: Drivers have reported jerking, hesitation, stalling, and abrupt shutdowns.
• Allegation: It is alleged that Honda failed to disclose these defects and the associated safety risks. 

How to take action

• If you own or lease an affected vehicle, contact the law firms handling these cases to see if you qualify for any ongoing settlements or to join a class-action lawsuit.
• For specific details about each case, visit the websites linked in the search results. 

What does Acura RDX a-spec mean?

The A-Spec designation means first and foremost significantly more advanced versions of Acura vehicles, making the Japanese manufacturer claim that its vehicles inspire performance wherever they go, as they are so technologically advanced, elegant and high-performance.

What is the difference between RDX advance and a-spec advance?

What's the difference between the 2025 Acura RDX Advance Package and the A-Spec Advance Package? The A-Spec Advance Package includes both A-Spec Package features as well as Advance features. This combines both sport and luxury into one trim with a Sport Appearance Package, sport seats, and 20-inch wheels.