2008 Acura RDX news, pictures, and information

2008 Acura RDX Crossover Combines Sports Sedan Performance with SUV utility for an Advanced Driving

The heart of the RDX's performance is its Variable Flow Turbo, (VFT) that delivers an unusually broad powerband wîth virtually no lag in throttle response. The RDX is equipped wîth a 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve in-line four-cylinder engine incorporating computer-controlled i-VTEC™ 'intelligent' intake/exhaust valve actuation system that delivers enhanced performance across a broad powerband while still delivering superior fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions. The Variable Flow Turbo works in concert wîth i-VTEC to deliver excellent acceleration while driving at a variety of speeds.
Rated output for the RDX engine is 240 horsepower at 6000 rpm wîth 260 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. The RDX has an EPA fuel economy rating of 17/22 mpg* (city/highway) and meets the Ú.S. EPA's stringent Tier-2 Bin-5 (and CARB LEV-2 ÚLEV) exhaust emissions standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com)
A performance-minded 5-speed automatic transmission wîth Sequential SportShift is standard on the RDX. An electronically-controlled drive-by-wire throttle system works wîth the transmission to execute exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The Sequential SportShift transmission can function as a conventional automatic transmission or, at the driver's option, can be shifted manually via §teering-wheel-mounted paddles.
Chassis

Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system is standard on the RDX, helping it to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness. SH-AWD™ distributes optimum torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels. The system's direct yaw control helps reduce understeer thus enhancing §teering accuracy and adding to total cornering ability.
Precise and responsive handling is further aided by fully independent front and rear suspensions. A MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension system is tuned for compliant control, and the suspension is assisted by large-diameter front and rear stabilizer bars for flatter cornering. Standard to the RDX is Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) wîth traction control to further enhance vehicle controllability and grip.
Exterior/Interior

RDX exterior styling further emphasizes the SÚV's sporty athleticism. Standard 18-inch wheels and tires, large wheel arches, aggressively raked body sides, steeply raked windscreen, and a short rear overhang generate an RDX wîth a taut and muscular presence. A unique rear hatch, finished wîth a replaceable panel to reduce the cost of accident repair, allows for a smooth transition of the body to the rear bumper. Such bodywork transition delivers a more custom look as well as eases loading and unloading of cargo. Available for 2008 is a new exterior color named Polished Metal Metallic.
Inside the RDX, the front seats feature a high outward visibility 'eye point' that provides a confident field of view. The 3-passenger rear seat has a 60/40 split-folding capability and, when folded flat, significantly expands the load area and increases the total cargo volume to 60.6 cubic feet. Multiple interior storage compartments are positioned throughout the interior, including a lockable dual-level center console that's large enough to accommodate a briefcase, located conveniently between the front seats.
The RDX features an array of electronic features that set it apart from the competition. Standard features include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a Multi-Information Display (MID), LED backlit gauges wîth progressive illumination and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ mobile phone connectivity. Also standard is an impressive 360-watt 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System wîth a multi-format 6-disc changer, AM/FM tuner, XM® Satellite Radio, and the convenience of an MP3/auxiliary input jack for easily connecting audio devices such as an iPod®.
Just one option package-the Technology Package-is offered on the RDX. The Technology Package heightens the RDX's appeal wîth tech-savvy customers through a range of advanced features. The centerpiece is a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround™ Premium Sound System designed by legendary recording engineer Elliott Scheiner. When playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-A), this advanced 410-watt system delivers eight discreet audio channels (up from the usual two channels) to create an exceptionally accurate listening experience. With its multi-format 6-disc DVD-A changer, AM/FM tuner and XM® Satellite Radio, the system is versatile and powerful.
The Technology Package also incorporates numerous information and communications features including Acura Navigation System and AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System wîth real-time traffic. Furthermore, AcuraLink™ allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, thus providing customers wîth the latest information and service requirements specific to their vehicle.
The real-time traffic feature of the Acura Navigation System wîth Voice Recognition™ can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow, accident, construction and weather conditions on freeways in 76 metropolitan areas-an increase of 32 markets from 2007. When the transmission is placed in reverse, the Navigation screen displays a video image from a rearview camera to make parking easier.
Safety

The RDX's technology leadership also extends to safety, where a long list of advanced safety technologies, including an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure make the RDX one of only two luxury SÚVs in its class to achieve both the Ú.S. government's top 5-star rating for both frontal and side impact crash tests, along wîth a 'TOP SAFETY PICK' rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The ACE™ body employs a network of interconnected front frame structures that work to absorb and redirect collision forces away from the passenger cabin while improving crash compatibility wîth vehicles of different sizes in a frontal collision. A special frame member located below the front bumper is designed to engage the front bumper of a lower vehicle, allowing the bumper systems of both vehicles to attenuate crash energy more efficiently.
Inside the RDX is a full complement of passive safety features. Key technologies include the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger along wîth side curtain airbags wîth a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. The passenger's side airbag features an Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) to prevent airbag deployment if a child or small-stature adult leans into the deployment path. LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat mounting systems allow the quick and secure installation of a child seats.
In addition, a specially engineered hood, collapsible hood hinges, breakaway wiper pivots and other features help reduce the chances of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision wîth the vehicle.
The RDX is assembled in America at the company's Marysville, Ohio, auto plant. The RDX is built on the same assembly line as the Acura TL luxury performance sedan. (concept carz)
Like all Acura models, the 2008 RDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care® (TLC®), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service, and trip routing.