2026 Acura RDX

2026 Acura RDX Research and Review

The 2026 Acura RDX continues its position as the benchmark compact luxury SUV in a segment crowded with worthy European rivals — and for Gaithersburg, Rockville, and Bethesda drivers who have put the RDX alongside the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Audi Q5, Acura's value proposition remains consistently favorable. The RDX's 272-horsepower turbocharged engine, Sport Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) standard on every configuration, and available ELS Studio 3D premium audio give it a performance and premium content profile that European competitors replicate only at meaningfully higher transaction prices. At Rosenthal Acura, serving the DC area since 1986, we carry the full 2026 RDX lineup.

Browse our 2026 RDX inventory, apply for pre-approval online, and value your current vehicle before visiting our Gaithersburg showroom.

• 272-horsepower 2.0T VTEC Turbo — turbocharged sport-luxury performance on every RDX.
• SH-AWD standard on every configuration — Acura's torque-vectoring AWD, not an option.
• Available ELS Studio 3D — 16-speaker premium audio system tuned for the RDX cabin.
• AcuraWatch standard — comprehensive driver-assistance across all 2026 RDX trims.

2026 RDX Performance: 272 Horsepower and Sport Handling AWD

The 2026 RDX is powered by a 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic — delivering responsive, confident performance that makes Maryland's highway interchanges and I-270's variable-speed segments feel entirely managed. Sport Handling AWD is standard on every RDX — not an option or an upgrade tier — providing torque-vectoring capability that distributes power not only between front and rear axles but across the rear axle left to right, actively pulling the RDX through corners with precision that conventional AWD cannot replicate. For Bethesda and Potomac drivers who navigate the Beltway interchange and also enjoy the occasional spirited run on Maryland's secondary roads, SH-AWD's standard inclusion is a genuine competitive advantage over the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 which charge for comparable AWD performance.

The Integrated Dynamics System's four modes — Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+ — give RDX drivers conditions-matched performance at a button press. Contact our team to discuss current RDX availability and configurations.

• 272hp 2.0T with 10-speed automatic — sport-luxury performance calibrated for engaged Maryland driving.
• SH-AWD standard — torque-vectoring AWD that actively corners the RDX, not just stabilizes it.
• 4 drive modes including Sport+ — Integrated Dynamics System for every road condition.

2026 RDX Interior and Technology

The 2026 RDX cabin delivers the premium positioning that makes it competitive with European compact luxury rivals — available Milano leather, open-pore wood or aluminum trim, and the True Touchpad Interface dual-screen cockpit with a 10.2-inch upper display and 7-inch lower display. Available ELS Studio 3D 16-speaker audio, a Head-Up Display on the Advance Package, 360-degree surround-view camera, and ventilated front seats give the A-Spec with Advance Package configuration a premium content level that Silver Spring and Bethesda buyers evaluating it against the fully equipped BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC consistently find competitive at lower transaction prices. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available Amazon Alexa Built-In keep DC metro drivers connected within the RDX's intuitive infotainment environment. Value your trade and apply for financing before your visit.

• True Touchpad Interface dual-screen cockpit — precision infotainment that distinguishes RDX in class.
• Available ELS Studio 3D 16-speaker audio — premium sound engineered for the RDX cabin.
• A-Spec with Advance Package — the most popular RDX configuration for DC-area buyers.

Shop the 2026 Acura RDX at Rosenthal Acura in Gaithersburg

Rosenthal Acura at 623 N Frederick Ave has been Montgomery County and the Washington DC metropolitan area's Acura specialist since 1986. We carry the full 2026 RDX lineup. Call (301) 840-9333 to schedule your 2026 RDX test drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2026 Acura RDX have?

The 2026 RDX is powered by a 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic. Sport Handling AWD (SH-AWD) is standard on every RDX configuration.

Is AWD standard on the 2026 Acura RDX near Gaithersburg?

Yes — Sport Handling AWD (SH-AWD) is standard on every 2026 RDX. Every RDX at Rosenthal Acura includes SH-AWD with torque-vectoring capability, unlike competitors that offer front-wheel drive as a base option.

How does the 2026 Acura RDX compare to the BMW X3?

The RDX offers SH-AWD standard (BMW X3 xDrive is an additional cost), available ELS Studio 3D audio, AcuraWatch driver assistance standard across all trims, and Acura's 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. At comparable equipment levels, the RDX is generally priced lower than the BMW X3.

What is the RDX A-Spec with Advance Package near Bethesda?

The A-Spec Package adds a sport-tuned suspension, red sport interior, 20-inch dark-finish wheels, and A-Spec exterior styling. The Advance Package adds ELS Studio 3D audio, Head-Up Display, 360-degree surround-view camera, and ventilated front seats. The A-Spec with Advance Package combines both — the most popular RDX configuration for DC-area buyers.

Where can I test drive a 2026 Acura RDX near Gaithersburg, MD?

Rosenthal Acura is located at 623 N Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20879. We carry the full 2026 RDX lineup and have been the Washington DC area's Acura specialist since 1986. Call (301) 840-9333 to schedule your test drive.