The Acura RDX has received minor updates for the 2022 model year, introducing revised styling, new technology, and enhanced active safety features.
This update hopes to keep the crossover fresh in the eyes of compact SUV shoppers, but it will take a sharp-eyed fan to recognize the subtle styling changes applied to the 2022 Acura RDX. Some of the updates include a redesigned diamond-shaped grille with a thinner chrome trim outline, different LED fog lamps for A-Spec and Advance Package models, a reshaped rear fascia with rectangular dual exhaust cutouts, and new available 19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheel designs. New available exterior colours include Liquid Carbon Metallic and Phantom Violet Pearl.
A performance-inspired PMC Edition will also join the lineup for 2022, which will be produced alongside the Acura NSX supercar at the automaker’s Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Ohio. The PMC Edition is set apart from the standard RDX by its standard Long Beach Blue Pearl paint, 15-spoke black-painted 20-inch wheels, numbered interior plaque, and exclusive Orchid interior upholstery colour with blue stitching. It will also benefit from the enhanced quality control measures in place at the PMC plant.
Cabin updates include new standard aluminum trim, standard Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a built-in Amazon Alexa AI assistant, and an available wireless charging pad for your phone. Acura also promises an ultra-quiet cabin thanks to additional front fender lining, which reduces road noise, and an updated version of its Active Sound Control (ASC) system. Models with the available Technology Package will also receive thicker carpets, additional door insulation, front acoustic glass, a thicker noise insulation pad in the dash, and more d-pillar insulation. Advance Package models, meanwhile, offer the “quietest cabin in RDX history,” thanks to rear acoustic glass and even more sound insulation in the ceiling, dash, drivetrain tunnel, rear hatch, and under the hood.
The Sporty A-Spec trim also returns for 2022, adding a new flat-bottom steering wheel, dark metallic interior trim, additional interior contrasting stitching, and more Ultrasuede interior surfaces. The new Orchid leather interior leather option available on the PMC Edition will also be offered on A-Spec models equipped with the Advance Package.
As for active safety features, the updated 2022 Acura RDX integrates the latest version of the brand's suite of safety tech, which adds a new traffic sign recognition system and a new forward-collision warning system with pedestrian detection. A rear seatbelt reminder system has also been added, as well as redesigned outboard seatbelts with improved pre-tensioning and load-limiting technology.
The 2022 Acura RDX sticks with its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters is standard and is paired with standard front-wheel drive. Acura’s optional torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is available across all trim levels.
The 2022 Acura RDX will enter production at Acura’s East Liberty Manufacturing plant in Ohio later this year. Canadian-market pricing and fuel economy figures are not yet available.
