The Acura RDX, the Japanese luxury brand's entry-level SUV, has just come off of its best sales year ever. But Acura isn't content with coasting on that recent success, introducing a mildly refreshed version of the RDX at the recent Chicago Auto Show to keep that sales momentum going.
Related: 2016 Acura RDX First Look
We've had an up-close look at the new '16 RDX and wondered if the changes that Acura has made to the new luxury SUV go far enough. If you're in the market for a new RDX, or will be soon, the question then becomes: Should you wait for the new 2016 to arrive in showrooms this spring, or should you go out and buy one of the slightly more than 10,000 that are sitting on dealer lots right now?
Normally we ask this question before we've actually seen the new model, so we have an advantage here in that we can compare what we know about the 2016 model with the vehicle currently for sale. Sadly we have to wait a bit before driving it, but based on what we do know, here's what we can recommend.
Styling
Acura didn't change much for 2016, with new headlights, taillights, and front and rear bumpers. You need to see them side-by-side to determine what's different because they look so similar; it's safe to say that there is no styling reason to pick the 2016. Go with the current model.
Interior
There have been a couple of updates for the RDX's interior, including a new bilevel entertainment system. Like other Honda/Acura products we've tested, the two screen system generally means more confusion when operating it, but it also brings the latest apps and crisper displays to the RDX. The only other changes, aside from a couple of additional plastic bits, are some climate vents for rear passengers. Only the truly tech-centric RDX buyer would want to wait for the 2016.
Engine
Acura has only managed to squeeze a few more horsepower out of the 2016 model, bumping the rating from 273 horsepower to 279 and torque from 251 pounds-feet to 252. The company says that revisions to the tuning mean better acceleration response with a different torque curve, and fuel economy has improved by just 1 mpg for highway ratings. Without being able to drive the new model, on paper this counts as likely no discernible difference.
Safety
Where Acura has made some improvements are to the available electronic safety systems. Blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers, remote start, front and rear parking sensors, front collision warning with collision mitigation, lane departure warning, lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control are now available. It's a significant upgrade from the 2015 model, and Acura hopes to achieve an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Top Safety Pick Plus award from all of it. The advantage here goes to the redesigned model.
Deals
There are 10,442 2015 Acura RDX models on dealer lots as of this writing, which at current sales levels, is a little less than a three-month supply. With the new RDX expected sometime in the next few months, it could mean that deals to clear old inventory will be coming.
Our Recommendation
The cosmetic, interior and powertrain differences between the 2015 (shown above) and 2016 models are negligible, but the updates to the RDX's safety systems are not. If you can live without some of the more advanced features (or wouldn't be planning to spring for such expensive options when you get a new one anyway), then the 2015 model is likely a better buy. If you must have those safety features and the latest electronics, then waiting for the 2016 is the way to go.
Cars.com photos by Evan Sears; Manufacturer image
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