Acura RDX

• Standard equipment a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 273 horsepower (33 more than the outgoing model)
• 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter
• Lighter all-wheel-drive system
• EPA fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway
• Front-wheel-drive models of the 2013 RDX are expected to offer the best fuel economy of any gasoline-powered luxury SUV in its class
• Chassis updates include a longer wheelbase and wider track, all-new Amplitude Reactive Dampers, and a new motion adaptive electronic power steering system
• Abundant use of sound deadening materials and Active Sound Control team to provide an exceptionally quiet cabin.
• Additional interior features, such as larger door openings, more passenger room, increased cargo volume and a power rear tailgate make the RDX interior even more accommodating and flexible
• Pandora internet radio interface, SMS text message feature, a smart entry keyless access system, pushbutton start, and a three view rear camera
• The even more advanced navigation system utilizes a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity – including 15 gigabytes that can be allocated for music storage
• Production of the new RDX will move to the East Liberty, Ohio plant of Honda of America Mfg., Inc.— home to one of the four top assembly lines in North America in the J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The first generation RDX has been built at the Marysville, Ohio auto plant, an IQS award winner for both of its assembly lines

Acura Debuts Three New Vehicles at the 2012 North American International Auto Show

New ILX compact sports sedan to feature Acura's first hybrid powertrain;All-new RDX sport utility vehicle features new engine and all-wheel-drive system; NSX Concept to be developed and built in America with new performance hybrid system.

Representing the leading edge of a wave of new products and technologies, Acura today unveiled three new vehicles at the North American International Auto Show, including a concept version of the all-new gateway to the Acura brand, the ILX luxury compact sedan; a prototype of the 2013 RDX crossover sport utility vehicle; and the NSX Concept, which presages the direction for Acura's next-generation supercar.

Acura also announced that the next-generation NSX will feature Acura's innovative new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® technology and that the vehicle will be developed by Honda R&D Americas and manufactured in Ohio.

"Over the next 24 months the Acura brand will unleash a series of new models that will remake our product lineup and shake up the luxury market," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura. "Acura will once again defy conventional wisdom to become one of the top luxury brands by creating luxury vehicles based on our own unique values."

Debuting three new models in Detroit heralds the beginning of Acura's second 25 years as a premium luxury-performance automobile brand.

Acura ILX Concept

The Acura ILX Concept is the precursor to an all-new Acura luxury compact sedan scheduled for launch in Spring 2012. To be positioned as the gateway to the Acura brand, the ILX will feature three different powertrains, including Acura's first-ever gas-electric hybrid.

"First time luxury buyers place the highest value on exterior styling, affordability and environmental issues and that's a virtual definition of what we have created with the new Acura ILX," said Jon Ikeda, head of the Acura Design Studio. "The strategy behind this new model is to position ILX as the first opportunity for many young buyers to enter the luxury market."

Sleek, sporty and aerodynamically efficient, the exterior of the all-new Acura ILX combines luxury, performance and efficiency. A beautifully styled luxury sedan, the ILX Concept has a compact, yet formal proportion, targeting a very professional image. The Acura ILX delivers both, with a greenhouse that provides excellent visibility, an aerodynamic low and wide stance, the ILX is immediately recognizable as an Acura

The lineup of ILX models will include an entry-level model powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine; a high-performance model with a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission; and a 1.5-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, Acura's first-ever hybrid offering.

The ILX will feature a high–quality, well-appointed interior that is smart, spacious and sporty. It will offer a number of new, high-value features, including a smart entry keyless access system and pushbutton start, along with Pandora internet radio interface and SMS text message function for smart connectivity with the world.

As with all Acura models, the ILX will have a long list of standard features, different trim levels (that will include a Technology Package), multiple transmission choices, and excellent standard safety features— including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ body structure, front, side and side-curtain airbags, 4-channel anti-lock brakes and Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA™). Acura anticipates that the ILX will achieve top ratings in both NHTSA and IIHS crash safety testing.

The new ILX will be manufactured exclusively by Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC, in its Greensburg, Ind. plant— one of only three plants in the world to receive J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Platinum Award for outstanding quality.

Acura RDX

Shown as a prototype version of the 2013 RDX, the second generation of Acura's five-passenger crossover SUV will up the ante with a new approach to achieving both advanced performance and fuel efficiency via a new engine, transmission and all-wheel drive system.

The 2013 RDX, scheduled to launch in Spring 2012, will have as standard equipment a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 273 horsepower— 33 more than the outgoing model. For even higher performance and improved fuel economy, the RDX makes use of a 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter. The RDX also gets a new, lighter all-wheel-drive system that provides the required performance and safety with increased efficiency.

With anticipated EPA fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, front-wheel-drive models of the 2013 RDX are expected to offer the best fuel economy of any gasoline-powered luxury SUV in its class.

The RDX exterior incorporates a sleek, more aerodynamically efficient body, evolving RDX from a sporty, compact SUV to a more formal look with a longer, sculpted hood and styling that is more elegant and sophisticated to match the Acura philosophy of timeless, beautiful design. Chassis updates include a longer wheelbase and wider track, all-new Amplitude Reactive Dampers, and a new motion adaptive electronic power steering system.

Inside the 2013 RDX, new sweeping shapes, matte surface trim, and generous use of leather combine to give the RDX interior an upscale look and luxury feel that Acura customers have come to expect. Abundant use of sound deadening materials and Active Sound Control team to provide an exceptionally quiet cabin. Additional interior features, such as larger door openings, more passenger room, increased cargo volume and a power rear tailgate make the RDX interior even more accommodating and flexible.

As with the ILX, the 2013 RDX will receive a host of new technologies including Pandora internet radio interface, SMS text message feature, a smart entry keyless access system, pushbutton start, and a three view rear camera. An available Technology Package will provide a full complement of relevant technologies, including AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps. New for 2013, the even more advanced navigation system utilizes a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity – including 15 gigabytes that can be allocated for music storage.

Acura anticipates that the RDX will achieve top ratings in both NHTSA and IIHS crash safety testing.

Production of the new RDX will move to the East Liberty, Ohio plant of Honda of America Mfg., Inc.— home to one of the four top assembly lines in North America in the J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The first generation RDX has been built at the Marysville, Ohio auto plant, an IQS award winner for both of its assembly lines.

Acura NSX Concept

The dynamically-styled NSX Concept gives an indication of the next great performance vehicle from the Acura brand. Making use of lightweight materials and a mid-mounted V-6 engine, the NSX Concept employs several new technologies for Acura, including application of Acura's innovative new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super Handling All Wheel Drive™) hybrid system.

Utilizing an unique 2 Electric Motor Drive Unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system, the all-new hybrid all-wheel-drive system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. Acura anticipates the new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® will deliver handling performance unmatched by previous AWD systems. In addition to the handling benefits of the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, a powerful next-generation VTEC® V-6 engine with direct-injection works in concert with a dual clutch transmission with built-in electric motor to create supercar acceleration while offering outstanding efficiency.

"This Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system will make NSX the ultimate expression of Acura's idea to create synergy between man and machine," said Takanobu Ito, president and CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. "The NSX will make the driver one with the car to enhance dynamic driving abilities without getting in the way."

While most supercars opt for brute force delivered from a large engine, the NSX Concept champions the true racing philosophy of an extremely favorable power-to-weight ratio.

"Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency," added Ito, who led the development of Acura's first NSX supercar. "In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities."

The new Acura supercar, expected to debut in the next three years, will be developed by an engineering team led by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., and manufactured in Ohio, at a yet to be named facility.

Acura Debuting 3 Vehicles at Detroit

Acura will unveil three all-new vehicles at the 2012 North American International Auto Show including an all-new compact ILX sports sedan, a redesigned RDX crossover sport utility vehicle, and a concept version of the next generation Acura NSX super car.

The Acura ILX Concept is a styling study of an all-new luxury compact sedan scheduled for launch in spring 2012. To be positioned at the gateway to the Acura lineup, the ILX will feature three powertrains including Acura's first-ever gas-electric hybrid. Acura also will unveil a prototype of the 2013 RDX, the second generation of Acura's five-passenger SUV. Finally, Acura will debut the NSX Concept, which represents the styling direction for the next generation of Acura's super sports car.

Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC (HMIN) today announced that it will be the exclusive manufacturer of the Acura ILX, an all-new luxury sedan going into mass production in Indiana in the spring of 2012.

The Acura ILX will join the TL sedan, ZDX crossover vehicle, and the MDX and RDX sport-utility vehicles as the fifth Acura model produced exclusively in North America. Acura finished second among all luxury brands in the J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Study.

HMIN was recognized earlier this year for its outstanding quality as one of only three automobile plants globally to earn a Platinum Award for outstanding quality based on the results of J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Survey℠ (IQS). The plant recently added nearly 1,000 associates to support the move to two-shift production, which started on Oct. 24, 2011, doubling the plant's capacity to 200,000 vehicles per year. The Acura ILX will be the first hybrid vehicle to be made in America at a Honda plant. Gasoline engines for the new Acura ILX will be produced at the Anna, Ohio, engine plant of Honda of America Mfg., Inc.

Honda Manufacturing Indiana, LLC (HMIN) in Greensburg, Ind., began operations with production of Civic Sedans in October 2008. HMIN added production of Honda's natural gas-powered Civic Sedan in May 2009, and began producing Civic for export to markets outside North America in September 2009. With employment of approximately 2,000 associates and capital investment exceeding $550 million, HMIN started operations as a zero-waste-to-landfill factory, meaning no waste is sent to landfills, and maintains one of the lowest environmental footprints of any automobile plant in Honda's global production network.

Some things I have been hearing:

• Acura Legend?
• Acura will get new flagship...
• The new flagship will feature the electric SH-AWD with V8 performance and better than inline-4 cylinder fuel efficiency 
• Acura NSX Concept
• Basically, the vehicle spied on the Avengers' movie set over the summer
• More production developed version and is also in hard-top form.
• Will carry on the NSX tradition of a mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout.
• Acura ILX (the following are the different powertrain setups)
• hybrid form (1.5L IMA). 
• For automatic transmission, the ILX will be offered in a 2.0L 4-cyl flavor
• For the more sport-minded, a 6-speed manual will be offered, with a 2.4L 4-cylinder.
• Acura Strategy
• "Smart Luxury"
• Acura's model strategy will be centered around a 3-sedan lineup running in parallel with a dual-CUV offering, so because of the ILX either the TSX or TL will get axed.

Spied 2013 Acura RDX?

VTEC.net has up some photos of a super camo-ed compact SUV that they are speculating to be the 2013 Acura RDX.

2010 Acura RDX

Never content resting on its laurels, Acura brings to market the 2010 RDX with a fresh new exterior look, a more luxurious interior, and a host of new technology features. For 2010, the RDX is now available with a two-wheel drive option which offers improved fuel economy and a lower price point over its SH-AWD™ counterpart.


"The RDX has always offered a unique mix of great performance, good utility, lots customer relevant technology and sharp looks- but for 2010 these attributes get even better," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "The availability of a new 2WD model with improved fuel economy and a lower price make the 2010 RDX a smart choice."
The RDX continues to be the compact luxury SUV of choice for drivers with energetic lifestyles who need a responsive and sporty vehicle with plenty of utility and leading edge styling. 2010 marks the first time ever that the RDX is available with a two-wheel-drive option, which is appealing to customers who live in warmer climates and who don't need the all-weather capability all-wheel drive offers. Due to the decreased weight of the two wheel drive model, the RDX gets improved fuel economy over the SH-AWD model- resulting in an improvement of 2 mpg in the city and on the highway.
Externally, the 2010 RDX receives numerous changes resulting in a more aggressive, sporty appearance. Exterior changes include redesigned 18-inch diameter aluminum-alloy wheels, bold new front and rear bumper fascias, Acura's signature design front grille, revised headlights and taillights, new exhaust tips and satin trim accents.
While the RDX's sport-minded chassis remains the same, the 2010 model features revised braking system components that deliver better feel and enhanced durability. Also for 2010, the RDX receives several new standard interior features including a rear view camera system, electronic compass, a pull handle to make closing the rear hatch easier, auto-function headlights, ambient footwell lighting, a center console storage tray, improved cupholders, USB-port connectivity, and Note function for XM® Radio. Additionally, the RDX interior gets subtle changes to the leather, resulting in a richer, more premium look to the interior seating surfaces.

True to Acura's leadership in the application of advanced technology, the RDX incorporates a class-leading array of features that keep passengers informed, entertained and in control. Every RDX features as standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® connectivity with new Bluetooth®audio capabilities, a 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System and a new USB port that allows the connection of (and charging of) items such as an iPhone® or iPod®. For those who want to be even more connected to the world around them, the optional Technology Package includes Acura's signature Navigation System with Voice Recognition which has expanded voice capabilities for 2010. Additionally, the AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System with Real-Time Traffic™ now features Traffic Rerouting™ and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™.
The RDX also incorporates leading safety technologies based on Acura's "Safety Through Innovation" initiative including advanced front, side and side curtain airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist ™ (VSA™), ABS with Brake Assist and an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure.
Powertrain

The RDX is equipped with a turbocharged 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine incorporating computer-controlled "intelligent" i-VTEC® intake/exhaust valve actuation that delivers enhanced performance across a broad powerband. The heart of the RDX's performance is its Variable Flow Turbocharger (VFT) that delivers an unusually broad powerband with virtually no lag in throttle response. The turbocharger works in concert with i-VTEC® to deliver outstanding acceleration and efficiency while driving at a variety of speeds.
For 2010, the turbo system makes use of a new inlet pipe that is thicker to reduce noise during high boost situations and the RDX incorporate a dual-stage radiator fan to further reduce cabin noise.
Rated output for the 2.3L I-4 engine is 240 horsepower at 6,000 rpm with 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The RDX has an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating* of 19/24 mpg (RDX) and 17/22 mpg (RDX SH-AWD™) along with meeting EPA TIER 2 - BIN 5 and CARB LEV-2 ULEV exhaust emissions standards.

A performance-minded Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission is standard on the RDX and an electronically-controlled Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system works with the transmission to execute exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The Sequential SportShift feature allows the transmission to function in a conventional automatic mode or can be controlled manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Chassis
Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system is available on the RDX, helping it to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness in a variety of weather conditions. SH-AWD™ distributes optimum torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels while also being able to overdrive the rear wheels. The system's direct yaw control utilizes torque vectoring to help reduce understeer thus enhancing steering accuracy and adding to total cornering ability.
New for 2010 is a two-wheel-drive version of the RDX that offers a lighter vehicle weight, improved fuel economy and a lower purchase price. The 2WD RDX employs a front wheel drive drivetrain design, but otherwise retains the same exceptional chassis and driving dynamics for which the RDX is known.
Precise and responsive handling is generated by fully independent front and rear suspension. The 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®) with traction control to further enhance vehicle controllability and grip.

For 2010, changes to the brake booster and servo deliver even better brake pedal feel along with less initial brake "grabbiness". In addition, the brake system makes use of revised rear brake pad actuation that delivers less drag and longer pad life; also added to the mix are Geomet-coated brake rotors for improved looks and added corrosion protection.
Exterior
RDX exterior styling further emphasizes the crossover SUV's sporty athleticism. Large wheel arches, aggressively raked body sides, steeply raked windscreen and a short rear overhang generate an RDX with a taut and muscular presence. A unique rear hatch allows for a smooth transition of the body to the rear bumper- a transition that delivers a more custom look as well as eases loading and unloading of cargo.
For 2010, the RDX gets a new front fascia, Acura's signature front grille, a hood with a new front edge design and updated HID headlights that are now controlled by a standard Auto on/off function. Looking at the side of the 2010 RDX you'll notice new wheels that team with the vehicle's wide track (61.9-in. front, 62.6-in. rear) to deliver excellent handling. At the rear, a much more aggressive bumper fascia, rectangular exhaust finishers, revised taillights and satin finish trim give the 2010 RDX a fresh new look.
Redesigned high-intensity discharge (HID) low beam headlights command the corners of the RDX's front fascia and fenders. The headlight's new design incorporates a "smoke style" chrome plating treatment and complements the angular pattern set by the Acura grille. Front bumper integrated fog lamps are standard on the RDX, and for 2010 they are mounted within separate side grilles located at the corners of the new front fascia. Both front and rear wheel arches are bold and broad, and new 18x7.5-inch 10-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels further add to the dramatic appearance of the RDX.
Interior
Inside every RDX, leather trimmed front seats deliver 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 storage compartments are positioned throughout the interior, including a lockable dual-level center console (that is large enough to accommodate a briefcase) conveniently located between the front seats. For 2010, two revised interior color themes are available: a darker, richer Ebony and; a lighter, more premium looking Taupe.
Acura interior design has always made intuitive functionality a priority, and in the 2010 RDX all important systems and controls now feature even more intuitive button placement along with easier-to-read markings. The systems used most frequently - audio and cruise control - have switches positioned on the steering wheel, and for 2010 the HVAC buttons have been moved closer to the driver. Technology Package items like Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Multi-Information Display (MID) and the AcuraLink™ Satellite Communications System can be controlled via switches on the steering wheel. AcuraLink™ messages consist of text displayed on the navigation screen, plus full details via Text-To-Speech can be heard over the RDX audio system. For 2010, the RDX has improved Text-To-Speech voice recognition with more words that can be recognized.

Also new for 2010 is a center console tray that is a convenient way to store items such as a wallet, spare keys, or an iPod®. In addition, integrated to the underside of the lid is a coin holder and place for holding credit or gate cards. New for 2010 is a USB port (also located in the center console) that allows for the easy connection of items such as an iPod®, iPhone® or a memory stick storage device. Standard is an Acura Premium Sound System with AM/FM tuner, 6-disc in-dash CD, MP3, WMA, XM® Radio, 7 speakers and a 360 watts watt amplifier. The RDX has soothing blue low-level ambient lighting in the ceiling that illuminates the front center console area, and new for 2010 is ambient blue footwell lighting.
For 2010, the available Technology Package adds even more capability, and integrates seamlessly into the RDX's performance-oriented driving environment. The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ has a revised 8-inch screen, improved navigation system feature use and content, and a faster reacting and more useful rear view camera. Non-Technology Package RDX's now get a standard rear view camera system with a viewing screen that is integrated into the auto-dimming rearview mirror.
With the AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™, the RDX driver can easily navigate around complex freeways. In addition, the navigation system now includes Traffic Rerouting™ that allows automatic rerouting around problem areas. Also new for the 2010 RDX is AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with weather radar image maps that provide weather tracking for area-specific, continually-updated weather conditions between your current location and your final destination.

Part of the RDX Technology Package is a spectacular Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system with 6-disc DVD-audio, CD/MP3/WMA player, DTS®, AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio, Dolby Pro Logic II 10 speakers and a 410 watt amplifier. The Acura/ELS® audio system was designed by 6-time Grammy® award winning sound engineer Elliot Scheiner. When playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-Audio is 500 times clearer than traditional CD), this advanced system delivers eight discreet audio channels (up from the usual two channels) to create an exceptionally accurate listening experience. For 2010, the Acura/ELS Surround® audio system receives a Note function for XM® Radio that allows the driver to later recall the song title, artist, a short excerpt of the actual song along with the XM® channel that played the song.
The Technology Package also includes a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, automatic climate control system. In total, these advanced technologies put the RDX at the cutting edge of the Entry Premium SUV segment.
Safety and Security
The RDX's technology leadership also extends to safety, where a long list of advanced features, including an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure allow the RDX to achieve NHTSA's top rating (5-Stars) for both frontal and side impact crash tests**
The ACE™ body structure employs a network of interconnected front frame structures that work to absorb and redirect collision forces away from the passenger cabin while helping improve crash compatibility with vehicles of different sizes in a frontal collision. A special frame member located below the RDX's 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.
In addition, a specially engineered hood, collapsible hood hinges, breakaway wiper pivots and other features help reduce the chance of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision with the vehicle.

Inside, the RDX has a full complement of passive safety features. Key technologies include the latest generation of dual-stage, multiple-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger along with side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. The front 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.
Like all Acura models, the 2010 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®, which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

Acura Vehicles That Qualify for "Cash for Clunkers"

Following the announcement that President Obama signed the newly enacted Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save (CARS) program, three Acura luxury vehicle models are expected to qualify for government credit vouchers under the stimulus program. The CARS program, also known as "Cash for Clunkers," is a government subsidy that encourages drivers to purchase a new, more fuel-efficient vehicle to replace an older, less fuel-efficient vehicle.

Under the CARS program, government vouchers will be issued to participating dealers for $3,500 or $4,500 (the amount depends on the difference in fuel economy between the older vehicle replaced versus the new model purchased) for new vehicles purchased by qualifying customers. Acura vehicles likely to qualify for government vouchers are the 2009-2010 TSX four-cylinder sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX crossover SUV, and certain models of the 2010 MDX luxury sport utility vehicle that will become available later this year.

Click here for more info.

Honda's Videos from NAIAS2008

I know it's a little late, but if you're interested:

1) Acura's booth at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS):

http://world.honda.com/NAIAS2008/AcuraBooth/video/

Below are screen captures incase you can't or don't want to watch the video.


Acura booth


Acura RL


Acura TL


Acura RDX


Acura MDX


Acura TSX


i-DTEC engine


SH-AWD


Cafe Acura with charging station


Psss... What's the password?


Another angle of the Acura booth

2) Honda Press Conference at the 2008 NAIAS

http://world.honda.com/NAIAS2008/HondaConference/video/



"I was a young engineer participating in an important emissions certification test for the Civic at the EPA lab in Ann Arbor. We believed that clean air was important for the future of life on this earth. And we made it a central focus of our product development efforts.

It was November 1974 and Civic became the first vehicle to pass the new standards of the U.S. Clean Air Act based solely on engine performance. But what I remember most ...was, that the EPA inspector congratulated me for achieving the industry's top rating for fuel economy." - Takeo Fukui, President and CEO Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Can I Use Regular Unleaded In My Acura?

This is straight from the Winter 2008 Acura Style magazine:

"Acura's Client Services (ACS) has thoughts on ill-advised owner attempts to beat stratospheric premium fuel prices by using regular unleaded instead. In a word: don't. Your Acura is designed to operate on 91 octane premium unleaded gasoline. If you're stranded and can't access premium, then 87 octane regular unleaded will see you home, but don't make a habit of using regular gasoline. You want the best possible performance from your Acura-and peak performance demands the correct fuel."

Here is a USAToday.com article on using Regular Vs. Premium gas. Highlights include:

"I personally use regular even though my owner's manual says you'll get better performance with premium," says Lewis Gibbs, consulting engineer and 45-year veteran at Chevron oil company. He's chairman of Technical Committee 7 on Fuels, part of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Fuels & Lubricants Council. Gibbs knows gas.
The main advantage of premium-grade gas is that it allows automakers to advertise a few more horsepower by designing and tuning engines to take advantage of premium's anti-knock properties. But auto engineers generally agree that if you use regular in a premium engine, the power loss is so slight, most drivers can't tell.

"I go back and forth, and I'm hard-pressed to notice" whether there's regular or premium in the tank, says Jeff Jetter, principal chemist at Honda Research and Development Americas. He drives an Acura designed for premium.Import brands, especially, use premium fuel to distinguish their upmarket models. Most Toyotas, for instance, are designed to run on regular or midgrade, while the automaker's Lexus luxury brand prefers premium. Same with Honda and its Acura luxury line.

Today's engines use highly evolved versions of a device called a knock sensor to adjust settings automatically for low-octane gas. And more engine control computers have adequate memory to allow separate sets of instructions for various octanes. The engine control computers keep pushing to maximize performance on whatever grade of fuel is used.

The only modern engines that should really need premium are those with superchargers, which force-feed fuel into the cylinders. "You're driving along and just tramp the gas and the knock sensor cannot sense the knock fast enough in some cases," because the supercharger boosts pressure so fast, says Bob Furey, chemist and fuels specialist at General Motors.

Burning regular when the owner's manual specifies premium won't void the warranty, nor damage the engine, even the most finicky automakers say. "You're giving up perhaps just a little bit of performance that a customer wouldn't really even notice, it's so slight," says Furey.

Automakers say they don't test premium engines on regular to check the difference, but some auto engineers estimate that power declines roughly 5%.

Acura in Russia in 2008

Honda Motors Co Ltd. plans to sell Acura luxurious sedans in Russia as of 2008. The company will open ten offices in Russia’s biggest cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg. According to the Nikkei weekly, Honda will market its executive and sports brands – Acura RL, Acura RDX, Acura MDX and Acura TL. The Acura brand is currently being sold in the United States, Canada, China and Mexico.



At present, Honda has 30 shops in Russia. In 2006 the sales level snowballed by 77 percent to 15,723 cars as against 2005. In January-June, sales more than doubled to 13,616 cars. Honda Motors Co Ltd forecasts that in 2010 it may increase sales by six-fold as against 2006 to 100,000 cars a year. The Japanese business newspaper cites statistics proving that in 2006 Russians bought 1.8 million of new cars, while this year this figure may go up by 10-20 percent.

[Source] itar-tass.com

New Features for 2008 Acuras

So what changes did Acura make to their 2008 lineup?
New technology for the 2008 RL is:

• AcuraLink™ real-time traffic expands to 76 metropolitan areas - an increase of 32 markets

The TL receives the following changes for 2008:

• Two new exterior colors: Polished Metal Metallic paint and Bold Beige Metallic
• Parchment added to all TL interior trim of when paired with exterior color of White Diamond Pearl or Carbon Bronze Pearl
• Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ now available in Hawaii
• AcuraLink™ real-time traffic expands to 76 metropolitan areas - an increase of 32 markets
• Updated vehicle security immobilizer system

For 2008 the TSX receives the following technology upgrades:

• Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ now available in Hawaii

The RDX receives the following upgrades for 2008:

• Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface with steering wheel mounted controls (formerly only available with Tech Package)
• Personalized settings via 8-inch Multi -Information Display (MID)
• Dual-position memory for driver's seat and mirrors
• Automatic dimming rear view mirror
• AcuraLink™ real-time traffic expands to 76 metropolitan areas - an increase of 32 markets
• Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ now works in Hawaii
• New exterior color: Polished Metal Metallic

MDX includes the following new features for 2008:

• Automatic dimming rear view mirror
• Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ now available in Hawaii
• AcuraLink™ real-time traffic expands to 76 metropolitan areas - an increase of 32 markets
• New exterior paint color: Sterling Gray Metallic
• Taupe added to all MDX interior trim of when paired with exterior color of Aspen White Pearl

[Source] AcuraNews.com

Acura TSX - "the least expensive luxury car to own"

ForbesAutos compiled a list of Top 10 Least Expensive Luxury Vehicles to Own. "Cars at the lower end of the luxury class are the least costly to own because their lower starting prices minimize the effects of depreciation." At the top of the list is the Acura TSX. Also included is the Acura RDX, the "only SUV that runs with the 10 luxury vehicles that are least expensive to own."

1. Acura TSX
Starting MSRP: $28,090
Five-year cost of ownership: $47,084

Half the models on this least expensive to own list wear lower sticker prices than the Acura TSX. But after five years, this sporting sedan ends up the most economical. Acura's reputation for vehicle reliability helps hold up resale value, so that the TSX depreciates just 49 percent over five years — the lowest depreciation among the 10 luxury cars that consume cash most lightly. It also boasts the lowest maintenance and repair expenses among these 10 lowest cost luxury models.

*After 5 years*
Cost of ownership: $47,084
Depreciation: $13,808
Interest and opportunity cost: $9,730
Fuel: $10,279
Maintenance and repairs: $3,002
Insurance: $8,285
Taxes and fees: $1,980

8. Acura RDX
Starting MSRP: $32,995
Five-year cost of ownership: $54,502

The Acura RDX is the only SUV that runs with the 10 luxury vehicles that are least expensive to own. With the gas-guzzling rap against SUVs, it seems appropriate that the RDX has the highest estimated fuel cost in the group. At $12,542 over five years, the Acura squanders 20 to 25 percent more fuel than some passenger cars in the ranking. Still, for a sport utility, its EPA fuel economy rating of 19 mpg city/23 mpg highway is good — especially for an all-wheel-drive hauler with pep and pizzazz.

*After 5 years*
Cost of ownership: $54,502
Depreciation: $17,826
Interest and opportunity cost: $11,323
Fuel: $12,542
Maintenance and repairs: $3,538
Insurance: $6,950
Taxes and fees: $2,323

[A Look into the Past] RD-X Concept Video

2002 Acura RD-X Concept Pictures

For more Acura Concepts

Some Upclose Photos of Concept cars from Acura Design Studio

IGN.com posted some pictures from their visit to the new Acura Design Studio.


The highly talked about 1995 Acura CL-X Concept.


Side view of the CL-X.


The rear end of the CL-X.


Acura RDX Concept.


Acura MDX Concept.


A photo of the Acura Sedan Concept.


Acura Sports Car Concept.

The Washington Times' Acura RDX review

Acura, Honda's luxury division, enters the highly competitive crossover utility vehicle (CUV) marketplace with an all-new premium entry-level model that features a host of "best-in-class" attributes, combining superlative styling, luxurious appointments, and super handling all-wheel drive in a technologically advanced ride with the RDX.



The turbocharged 2.3-liter four cylinder delivers instant acceleration off the line or at highway speeds, thanks to the broad torque curve. The ride quality is on the firm side, befitting the RDX's performance orientation. Handling characteristics are crisp, and indeed more sport sedanlike than light trucklike. The overall size of the RDX is well suited to zipping through traffic with ease, while offering the versatility on par with, or exceeding many competitors. The Acura/ELS audio system places the RDX in the transportation concert hall category in terms of entertainment and sound quality, so parked, or on the move, your favorite tunes take on new life.



The RDX is so well appointed that there is only one optional package -- the Technology Package, which is truly "wired."
The Technology Package adds:
• A 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround Premium Sound System with multiformat six-disc DVD-A changer, AM/FM tuner, and XM Satellite Radio.
• HandsFreeLink wireless telephone interface.
• AcuraLink Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic.
• The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition.
• Rearview camera.
• GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, automatic climate-control system.

As always, Acura may not always be the first to the fray, but when the battle is over, Acura vehicles seem to reign supreme.



[Source] WashingtonTimes.com

Click here to see the RDX when it was still a concept.

[Video] 2007 Acura RDX Review From Fuel

The Fuel Show's review on the 2007 Acura RDX.



Q Factor = 4.25/5
Curb Appeal = 3.25/5
Performance = 3.75/5
Fit & Finish = 4.50/5
Drivability = 3.75/5

Overall = 19.50/25

[Videos] TOV Video Road Test - 2007 Acura RDX

VERY DETAILED & EXCELLENT reviews from VTEC.net.

Exterior/Underhood Overview:


Acura RDX Interior Overview:


Road Test:


[Video Source] Temple of VTEC

All of About Acura RDX articles.

The Acura RDX Concept in 2002.

WheelsTv's 2007 RDX Test Drive Video

WheelsTV has a 3 minute video of the 2007 RDX on their site. The video comments on the technology, drive train, pricing and etc. Please follow the link for the video.

WheelsTV's 2007 RDX Video Test Drive

[A Look into the Past] 2002 Acura RDX Concept

So we're all a little concerned about the look of Acura's Advanced Sedan Concept (ASC). Well, if you remember how the 2002 Acura RDX concept looked, then maybe the ASC still has a chance of not looking butt ugly!