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Acura ADX vs. RDX

Driving an Acura RDX? Should You Consider the ADX Next?

No 2027 Acura RDX? Why Current RDX Owners Should Consider the ADX If you drive an Acura RDX, choosing your next SUV may take a little more thought this time. With the RDX taking a break for the 2027 model year ahead of its next generation, replacing your current vehicle with the newest version of the same model may not be an option. The Acura ADX deserves a look if you want to stay with Acura and your priorities include everyday versatility, available all-wheel drive and a vehicle that fits comfortably into your routine. It offers less power and cargo room than the current RDX, but its dimensions and passenger space may be closer than you expect. For RDX owners around Peabody and the North Shore, the question is straightforward: does the ADX fit the way you drive today? What Is Happening to the Acura RDX? Acura announced that production of the current-generation RDX would be suspended during 2026 as the company prepares for an all-new model. In its October 2026 business update, Acura confirmed that the next-generation RDX will come to market in 2028 with a two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain. That makes this a transition between generations. It also creates a decision for current owners whose next vehicle purchase falls during the gap. You might keep your RDX longer, explore remaining 2026 vehicles if available, consider a pre-owned RDX or look at another Acura SUV. The ADX belongs on that list if you are open to a different balance of space, performance and features. The specifications below compare the 2026 ADX with the 2026 RDX. If you own an earlier RDX, your vehicle’s specifications and equipment will differ. Acura ADX vs RDX: What Changes? 2026 Acura ADX The 2026 Acura ADX has a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available. EPA-estimated combined fuel economy is 28 mpg with front-wheel drive or 27 mpg with AWD. The ADX measures 185.8 inches long and 72.5 inches wide, with 37.7 inches of rear legroom. Behind the rear seats, it provides 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space, or 23.2 cubic feet with the A-Spec with Advance Package. 2026 Acura RDX The 2026 Acura RDX has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is standard, and all packages have an EPA-estimated combined fuel-economy rating of 23 mpg. The RDX measures 187.4 inches long and 74.8 inches wide, with 38.0 inches of rear legroom. Its standard cargo volume behind the rear seats is 29.5 cubic feet, giving it more room for luggage, groceries and everyday gear. Specifications compare the 2026 models; earlier RDX models may differ. Cargo figures use Acura’s standard measurements behind the rear seats. EPA ratings are for comparison purposes; actual mileage varies with driving, maintenance and conditions. The ADX May Be Closer in Size Than You Expect Moving from an RDX to an ADX does not mean making a dramatic change in vehicle length. The 2026 ADX is just 1.6 inches shorter than the 2026 RDX. The difference in width is more noticeable. The ADX measures 72.5 inches wide compared with 74.8 inches for the RDX. That narrower body may appeal if your daily routine includes a tight garage, crowded parking lots or frequent trips into Greater Boston. Check mirror clearance separately when measuring your space. Rear legroom is also close: 37.7 inches in the ADX versus 38.0 inches in the RDX. However, the RDX has more rear shoulder room, so passengers may notice the difference across the cabin. Bring your usual passengers when comparing them. Your seating position, child seats and how often you fill the rear bench matter more than a general size category. Consider How Much Cargo Space You Actually Use Cargo capacity is one of the clearest reasons an RDX owner might prefer to stay with an RDX. Using Acura’s standard measurements behind the rear seats, the 2026 RDX provides 29.5 cubic feet. The ADX provides 24.4 cubic feet, or 23.2 cubic feet with the A-Spec with Advance Package. If your RDX regularly carries a stroller, sports equipment and groceries at the same time, that difference deserves attention. If the cargo area usually holds a few shopping bags and an occasional suitcase, the ADX may meet your needs comfortably. Bring a representative load to your comparison appointment. Check whether it fits with the rear seats upright and whether the opening makes loading convenient. A cargo-volume figure is useful, but it cannot show how your particular belongings fit. Expect a Different Driving Character The ADX is worth considering with realistic expectations about performance. Its 190-horsepower turbocharged engine produces less power than the 2026 RDX’s 272-horsepower engine. The transmissions differ, too: the ADX uses a continuously variable transmission, while the RDX has a 10-speed automatic. If strong acceleration is one of your favorite things about your current RDX, make that a priority during the test drive. Evaluate highway merging, response on an incline and how the vehicle feels with passengers aboard. If your driving is mainly commuting, errands and local trips, you may find the ADX’s balance suits you. The goal is to determine whether you enjoy its response in the situations you encounter most often. Fuel Economy Is a Reason to Look Closer With rising gas prices, fuel economy is on many car shoppers minds. The ADX offers higher EPA combined fuel-economy ratings than the 2026 RDX. For an AWD comparison, the 2026 ADX is rated at 25 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 27 mpg combined. The RDX is rated at 23 mpg combined across its packages. For someone commuting between Peabody, Danvers and Greater Boston, fuel use may be a meaningful part of the decision. Actual results will depend on traffic, weather, driving habits and other conditions. If you currently own an older RDX, compare the ADX with the EPA rating for your exact model year and drivetrain rather than assuming the 2026 RDX figures describe your vehicle. Check the Features You Would Miss - and Those You Would Welcome An RDX owner’s experience with the ADX will depend partly on the age and equipment of their current vehicle. The 2026 ADX includes a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and heated front seats. Additional comfort and technology features vary by package. If you currently use the True Touchpad Interface in a recent RDX, the ADX’s touchscreen is a difference worth trying in person. While parked, connect your phone, enter a destination and explore the controls. Also check familiar conveniences individually. Seat adjustment, driver memory, a heated steering wheel and camera features should be confirmed on the specific vehicle rather than assumed from the Acura badge. Frequently Asked Questions Is the ADX replacing the RDX? The ADX is a separate Acura model. Acura has announced a next-generation RDX Hybrid for market introduction in 2028. The ADX is an alternative to consider during that transition. Can I get an ADX with all-wheel drive? Yes. AWD is available on the 2026 ADX. Its system differs from the RDX’s SH-AWD, so compare the specific vehicles rather than assuming identical operation. Should I wait for the RDX Hybrid? That depends on your timing and how well your current vehicle meets your needs. If you are interested in the future RDX, follow Acura’s announcements without assuming specifications or delivery dates that have not been confirmed. Can I still consider another RDX? Yes. Ask about remaining new 2026 inventory and pre-owned options. Availability will vary, and certified pre-owned Acura vehicles provide another shopping path to explore. Is the ADX the Right Next Step From Your RDX? The ADX is worth a test drive if your needs have shifted toward everyday efficiency, a narrower body and practical passenger space. If you regularly use your RDX’s cargo capacity or strongly value its performance, give those differences equal weight. Contact Acura of Peabody to discuss your current RDX and arrange a closer look at an ADX configuration that fits your routine.

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