Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
The new ADX from Acura enters the premium compact SUV segment with self-assurance, a bit of swagger, and dutiful technologies and amenities for its loyal owners looking for something unique. Based on the highly-revered Integra platform, the ADX is sporty, confident, and youthful, as the brand targets a younger audience.
The entry-level ADX crossover joins a family of utilities from the Japanese automaker that include the top-of-the-line MDX, the dynamic RDX, and the all-electric ZDX, which becomes Acura’s most powerful SUV ever when the Type S label is applied. ADX is available in three trim levels: the base $35,000 FWD ADX, $38,000 ADX A-Spec in FWD, and the $42,000 ADX A-Spec with Advance Package in FWD. Each can be paired with AWD for an additional $2,000. The destination and processing fee is $1,350.
To experience the small wonder, Acura held its national media drive north of San Diego, CA where the vehicle blended with the harmonic energy of the Pacific Ocean. The stunning environment allowed me to engage and delve into the ADX’s dynamic mannerisms on the thrilling Cali roads, including its superb brakes and stopping power. Acura put everyone in Urban Gray Pearl models in the most sensational form, ADX A-Spec with Advance Package. However, to meet your personality requirements choose a hue from Adriatic Sea Blue Metallic, Milano Red, Platinum White Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, or Solar Reflection Silver Metallic. Yet, the Urban Gray Pearl is dull, and I would have preferred Adriatic Sea Blue Metallic to liven up the vibe.
To go along with the ADX’s family-familiar Diamond Pentagon grille, LED fog lights, and wide-set Acura LED daytime running lights and taillights, the A-Spec and Advanced Package upgrades helped the SUV make a stronger pronouncement whenever I entered a new scene in the various coastal towns I drove through. You also receive contrasting blacked trim such as the wheel wells, power-folding mirrors, grille, rocker panels, front chin spoiler, lower bumpers, and of course, the 19” aluminum alloy 10-spoke Berlina Black rims wrapped in 235/45 R19 Continental ProContact all-season touring tires for crossovers. Moreover, a power tailgate with walkaway close capability, a panoramic moonroof, and the bold tailgate spoiler add to the ADX’s allure.
Powering the ADX is an efficient and steadfast turbocharged 1.5-liter VTEC engine (190-horsepower and 179 lb.-ft. of torque) coupled to a sport-tuned continuously variable transmission (CVT) with metal paddle shifters. It’s not my favorite since CVT vehicles seem to whine during upshifts — nor that of the majority of my media colleagues — but Japanese automakers unequivocally love CVTs. The powertrain utilizes an Integrated Dynamics System with five drive modes (snow, comfort, normal, and sport), including a driver-customizable Individual mode accessible on the center console. A remote engine start feature will be favorable in cold weather states like Maryland where I reside. In unison with the sport-tuned fully independent suspension and advanced all-wheel drive, the ADX’s gripping and maneuvering capabilities were phenomenal.
Step inside the technical cabin to feel appeased and empowered. The MDX’s performance layout has always fascinated me, and the ADX inherits a tamed-down rendition of that same cockpit, especially when you incorporate the sporty A-Spec styling cues. Acura blesses drivers and passengers with Ultrasuede seat trim, stainless steel sport pedals, a thick, perforated leather, heated, and flat-bottom steering wheel with thumb indentions, ambient lighting, stainless red gauge needles, red contrast stitching, and the 10.2” Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument display.
But that’s not it since the technology keeps coming. Acura includes the impressive 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system (etched aluminum speaker grille plates), Google built-in with a complimentary 3-year unlimited data plan, Alexa built-in, a Multiview Camera System, rain-sensing windshield wipers, rear seat USB-c charging ports, 5G connectivity telematics, and the Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charger. The nucleus of the above indulgences is a 9″ touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Nonetheless, I would have liked to see a cleaner integration of the screen as it currently looks like an afterthought sitting atop the dash.
Our 2025 ADX model totaled $46,890 with all packages and upgrades. Keep in mind that Acura offers a boatload of Acura Genuine Accessories to enhance the look and versatility of your ADX. Lastly, the standard AcuraWatch safety system instills confidence in your drive. It includes advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies such as the Collision Mitigation Brake System, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, and Blind spot information to name a few.
The ADX is Acura’s latest Art of Invention that will compete with competitive premium, compact crossovers like the BMW X1, Audi Q3, Lexus UXh, and Volvo XC40.
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