2019 Acura RDX teaser hints towards a new sportier variant

KUALA LUMPUR: From December last year, Acura is constantly teasing us by sharing pictures of the all-new Acura RDX. First, it was a stunning red beauty, standing side-faced showing off beautiful design philosophy. Second, came the prototype that allured the crowd at the 2018 North American International Auto Show. And now, as for today, Acura shares what we can say - a front fender image.

Amongst the first few things to catch attention is the ‘A-Spec’ red-silver badge resting on the fender. This new element hints towards a new sports trim to join the RDX force. However, we are not sure about its performance hike over the rest. Also, visible are prototype-like LED headlamps, carbon-fibre alloy wheels, and what we think is a fog lamp casing that was missing in Detroit revealed pre-production model.

Based on the 2016 Acura Precision Concept, the third-generation Acura RDX is first in the family to completely follow brand's reinvented design language. This means the car will look all dynamic and powerful, a hard deal not to gaze when on road. The cabin along with the amenities and technologies resting inside is inspired by the much talked about Precision concept.

Here are a few updates to feature on the 2019 Acura RDX (based on the prototype) -

• Based on the brand's exclusive platform, new Acura RDX will feature a new powertrain, revised chassis, along with a lighter and stiffened body.
• Ditching the ongoing 3.5-litre V6 mill, RDX will now house 40% more low-torque delivering 2.0-litre DOHC VTEC Turbo mill. This new mill will be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission (first even in an Acura).

• Most expected to make a comeback and enhance the handling is Acura Super Handling All-Wheel Drive feature. It is tagged as “most advanced and capable” all-wheel system by the brand.
• The centre tunnel will get a drive mode dial with options like - Sport, Sport+, Show, and Comfortable.
• Combining the remote and touchscreen interface, the new Acura RDX will be the debut stage for the all-new Acura True Touchpad Interface. It’ll be supported by an Android-based operating system along with 10.2-inch high-mounted display.

• The next-gen Acura RDX will rate high on the safety scale with advance offerings like Surround-View Camera System, new AcuraLink with 4G LTE WiFi, Blind Spot Infotainment System, and front & rear parking sensors.

Sounds advance and appealing, right. Also, with the new ‘A-Spec’ variant, Acura is only adding more and more gems to its already shimmering 2019 RDX. Once launched, it’ll be interesting to see how this one competes with the existing high-profile market players.