How reliable is the 2019 Acura RDX?

The 2019 RDX earns excellent reliability ratings from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. Built on Hondas foundation with the proven 2.0T engine (similar to Civic Type R architecture), the RDX delivers Honda-level dependability with luxury features. The 10-speed automatic is smooth and reliable. First-year redesign concerns are minimal - this platform was well-sorted from launch.

What problems should I look for in a 2019 RDX?

Issues are minimal but check: 1) Infotainment learning curve - ensure True Touchpad works properly and isnt damaged, 2) Some early units had minor electrical glitches (software updates resolve), 3) Wind noise from door seals at highway speeds (common complaint), 4) Occasional sunroof rattle. No significant mechanical issues affect this generation. Overall reliability is excellent.

Which 2019 RDX package should I buy?

Technology Package offers the best value with navigation, premium ELS 3D audio, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring. Base model lacks navigation and premium audio which diminishes the luxury experience. A-Spec adds aggressive styling, sport seats, and unique wheels - worth it if you value appearance. Advance is nice but the premium over Technology is significant for modest additions.

How is the True Touchpad Interface?

Acuras True Touchpad has a learning curve but works well once familiar. It maps your finger movements on the touchpad to cursor movement on screen - different from traditional touchscreen or knob interfaces. Initial frustration is common, but most owners adapt within a week. The system becomes intuitive with use. Test it during your evaluation to ensure you can adapt.

How does the 2019 RDX compare to German competitors?

The RDX competes directly with BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes GLC. It offers better reliability than all three, similar performance to base German models, and comparable interior quality. The ELS audio system rivals any factory system. Where it falls short: the badge cachet and some interior material details. For most buyers prioritizing value and reliability, RDX is the smart choice.

What should I pay for a used 2019 RDX?

Fair prices by package (50,000-70,000 miles, SH-AWD): Base $24,000-$28,000, Technology $26,000-$31,000, A-Spec $30,000-$35,000, Advance $32,000-$37,000. FWD models: subtract $1,500-$2,000. Higher mileage (85K+): subtract 12-15%. Lower mileage (under 40K): add 10-15%. RDX holds value well due to reliability reputation.

2019 Acura RDX Buyer's Guide: The Redesigned Contender

The RDX Gets Serious

The 2019 Acura RDX represents a complete reimagining of Acura's best-selling model. Gone is the adequate-but-uninspiring previous generation, replaced by an athletic, technology-forward crossover that finally competes head-to-head with German rivals. Built on Acura's exclusive platform with a turbocharged engine derived from the Civic Type R, the RDX delivers enthusiast credentials with Honda reliability.

Six years into this generation, the 2019 RDX offers access to modern luxury crossover capability at depreciated prices. Unlike some first-year redesigns with teething problems, the RDX platform was well-sorted from launch. Reliability has been excellent, owner satisfaction is high, and examples with reasonable miles now fall into accessible territory.

SH-AWD Recommendation

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) is one of RDXs best features, providing active torque vectoring that improves handling dynamics beyond simple AWD systems. Its standard on most packages and adds real capability. Target SH-AWD models unless you live in a warm climate and never encounter snow.

Package Breakdown

2019 RDX Package Comparison with Current Used Prices
Package	MSRP New	Avg. Used Price	Key Features	Recommendation
Base	$37,400	$25,800	Standard features, cloth/leather	Acceptable
Technology	$40,500	$28,600	Navigation, ELS audio, parking sensors	Best Value
A-Spec	$44,000	$32,200	Sport styling, sport seats, unique wheels	Style choice
Advance	$46,200	$34,400	Heads-up display, surround view, full luxury	Premium

Base: Acceptable Starting Point

The base RDX includes leather-trimmed seats, 10.2-inch display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and AcuraWatch safety suite. What it lacks: navigation, premium ELS audio, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring. Base is acceptable but missing features that enhance luxury experience.

Technology: Our Recommendation

Technology Package adds navigation with 3D mapping, premium ELS Studio 3D audio (16 speakers), parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and cross-traffic alert. The ELS audio system is genuinely excellent - among the best factory systems available. This package represents the value sweet spot.

A-Spec: Style Focus

A-Spec adds aggressive exterior styling, unique 20-inch wheels, sport seats with Alcantara inserts, red instrument lighting, and visual differentiation. It doesn't add performance (same engine/suspension) but looks significantly more aggressive. Worth the premium for buyers who value appearance.

Advance: Maximum Features

Advance adds heads-up display, 16-way power front seats with ventilation, surround-view camera, acoustic windshield, and color head-up display. The additions are nice but the premium over Technology is substantial. Consider if specific features (heads-up display, ventilated seats) matter to you.

Price Distribution Analysis

2019 RDX Price Distribution by Mileage

Based on current nationwide market listings

Engine and Drivetrain

2.0L VTEC Turbo

Acura's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque - competitive with base German rivals. The engine architecture shares DNA with the Civic Type R, though tuned for refinement over maximum performance. Power delivery is smooth with minimal turbo lag.

10-Speed Automatic

The 10-speed automatic delivers quick, smooth shifts with intelligent programming. Sport mode holds gears longer and downshifts more aggressively. Paddle shifters provide manual control when desired. The transmission is well-matched to the engine and contributes to the engaging driving experience.

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive

SH-AWD is Acura's torque-vectoring AWD system that can overdrive the outer rear wheel during cornering, improving turn-in and reducing understeer. It's more sophisticated than most AWD systems and provides genuine handling benefits beyond simple traction. In winter conditions, SH-AWD provides excellent capability.

True Touchpad Learning Curve

The True Touchpad Interface requires adaptation. Many users initially struggle with the cursor-based input method. Spend 15-20 minutes during test drive ensuring you can operate navigation, climate, and audio controls comfortably. Most owners adapt within a week, but some never fully embrace the system.

Common Issues and Concerns

Infotainment Quirks

Beyond the learning curve, some early units experienced occasional freezes or slow response. Software updates address most issues. Verify the system is updated and responsive during inspection. These are inconveniences rather than failures.

Wind Noise

Some owners report noticeable wind noise from door seals at highway speeds. This is a common complaint across the model line. Check during highway test driving. Some dealers have addressed this through seal adjustments.

Sunroof Rattle

The panoramic sunroof can develop rattles, particularly over rough surfaces. Usually addressable through adjustment. Test with sunroof in various positions during evaluation.

Interior and Technology

The RDX interior is genuinely premium with quality materials and tight assembly. The pushbutton shifter takes adjustment but frees console space. The ELS Studio 3D audio system (Technology and above) is one of the best factory systems available - audio enthusiasts will appreciate its quality.

Rear seat space is competitive with good legroom and adequate headroom. The 60/40 split rear seats fold to expand the 29.5 cubic foot cargo area to 58.9 cubic feet. The power liftgate and low load floor ease cargo handling.

Buying Recommendations

Best Value Configuration

Target: 2019 RDX Technology Package SH-AWD, 50,000-70,000 miles, single owner with service history. Price: $26,000-$31,000. This delivers the complete RDX experience with premium audio and essential technology.

Budget Option

Target: 2019 RDX Base SH-AWD, 70,000-85,000 miles, clean history. Price: $23,000-$27,000. Accept fewer features while retaining mechanical excellence and SH-AWD capability.

Style Choice

Target: 2019 RDX A-Spec SH-AWD, under 60,000 miles. Price: $30,000-$35,000. Aggressive styling and sport seats for buyers who value appearance.

BUY

Excellent Buy - Target Technology Package

Pros

Honda reliability in luxury package
SH-AWD provides genuine handling benefit
ELS audio is genuinely excellent
2.0T engine is powerful and efficient
First-year redesign without major issues
Competitive pricing with strong value

Cons

True Touchpad has learning curve
Wind noise complaints are common
Base model lacks premium features
Doesnt have German badge cachet

Recommendation

The 2019 RDX Technology Package is one of the best luxury crossover values available. Honda reliability, genuine performance, and excellent audio in a premium package. Target SH-AWD models with Technology Package and 50K-70K miles. Budget $26,000-$31,000. Test the True Touchpad to ensure you can adapt. For buyers prioritizing value and reliability over badge prestige, the RDX is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

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