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2020 Acura RDX Review: Reliable Small Luxury SUV With Low Ownership Costs As It Ages

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Based on 0 Owner Reviews â–¶
Drew B | March 31, 2025
The Acura RDX, introduced in 2006, is a compact luxury crossover SUV. The 2020 model is part of the third generation, which started in 2019. Key trims include Base, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance. The 2020 RDX stood out due to its sporty handling, spacious interior, and a long list of standard features at a competitive price point. New, it ranged from approximately $38,000 to $48,000. Its combination of practicality and luxury makes it a popular choice.
The Good

The 2020 Acura RDX offers a compelling blend of advantages. Performance is spirited thanks to its turbocharged engine. Reliability is generally good, as expected from Honda/Acura. Comfort is enhanced by a well-appointed and spacious cabin. The design is modern and attractive, appealing to emotional buyers, while its strong value proposition and practical cargo space appeal to those seeking sensible transportation.

The Bad

Some weaknesses of the 2020 Acura RDX include its infotainment system, which some find unintuitive. The touchpad interface can be distracting to use while driving. The rear cargo area, while spacious, may not be as configurable as some competitors. Road noise can also be noticeable at higher speeds. Furthermore, some have reported issues with the infotainment system software.

2020 Acura RDX: Quick Overview

  • Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4
  • Horsepower: 272 hp
  • Torque: 280 lb-ft
  • Transmission: 10-speed Automatic
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
    • FWD: 22 MPG City / 28 MPG Highway / 24 MPG Combined
    • AWD: 21 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway / 23 MPG Combined
  • 0-60 MPH: Approximately 6.6 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs (with Acura accessory trailer hitch)
  • Trim Level Features:
    • Base:
      • Panoramic sunroof
      • AcuraWatch safety suite (Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking System)
      • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
      • 9-speaker audio system
      • Keyless entry with push-button start
    • Technology: (Adds to Base)
      • Navigation system
      • Blind Spot Information System
      • Rear Cross Traffic Monitor
      • ELS Studio Premium Audio System (12 speakers)
      • Leather upholstery
      • 2-position memory for driver's seat and side mirrors
    • A-Spec: (Adds to Technology)
      • Unique exterior and interior styling elements
      • Sport seats with Ultrasuede inserts
      • A-Spec exclusive wheels
      • LED fog lights
      • Dark chrome accents
    • Advance: (Adds to Technology)
      • Adaptive Damper System
      • Head-Up Display
      • Heated and ventilated front seats
      • Heated steering wheel
      • 360-degree Surround View Camera
      • Rain-sensing windshield wipers

2020 Acura RDX Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2020
Make Acura
Model RDX
Trim -
Style All-Wheel Drive
Type Minivan
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In Japan
Manufacturing City SAYAMA
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight 1822.99 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 2721.55 kg
Overall Height 166.88 cm
Overall Length 474.22 cm
Overall Width 189.99 cm
Wheelbase Length 275.08 cm
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine K20C4
Engine Size 2L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 10-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 10-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Standard
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $47,700 USD
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges $995 USD

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2020 Acura RDX Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2020 Acura RDX often revolve around the infotainment system. Users have complained about the True Touchpad Interface being difficult to use accurately while driving, leading to distractions. Some have also experienced software glitches, system freezes, and unresponsive screens. Others have reported issues with the automatic emergency braking system engaging unnecessarily. While recalls are relatively infrequent, it's important to check the NHTSA website for any active recalls pertaining to the specific VIN. Some owners have also noted premature wear on brake pads and rotors. Long-term reliability concerns appear to be minimal, as the engine and transmission are generally robust. However, keeping up with scheduled maintenance is crucial for preserving its reliability. Some earlier model years of the third-generation RDX (2019) experienced similar infotainment issues, suggesting that the 2020 model carried over some of the same software or hardware. Regularly updating the infotainment system software can help mitigate some of these issues. It's worth noting that while some owners have reported these problems, many others have experienced trouble-free ownership.

How long will the 2020 Acura RDX last?

The 2020 Acura RDX, given proper maintenance, can easily reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles, potentially lasting 10-15 years. A well-maintained RDX should provide reliable service.
Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and timely replacement of wear items (brakes, tires) are essential. Long-term durability is generally good, though potential weaknesses might emerge in the infotainment system (screen delamination, software glitches) and suspension components, especially in areas with poor road conditions. The turbocharged engine benefits from regular maintenance to prevent potential turbocharger issues.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2020 Acura RDX boasts a comprehensive suite of built-in technology, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features. Standard features include a 10.2-inch display with the True Touchpad Interface, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a 9-speaker audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.
Entertainment options include SiriusXM satellite radio and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Driver-assistance features, bundled under the AcuraWatch suite, are standard and include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, Collision Mitigation Braking System, and Road Departure Mitigation.
Optional features, depending on the trim level, include a navigation system, a Blind Spot Information System, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, and an ELS Studio Premium Audio System with up to 16 speakers. The Advance trim adds a Head-Up Display, a 360-degree Surround View Camera, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
Safety features include advanced front airbags, side curtain airbags, and vehicle stability assist. The 2020 Acura RDX received excellent crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). The IIHS awarded the RDX a "Top Safety Pick+" rating, indicating superior performance in crash tests and advanced safety technology.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Platinum White Pearl
Lunar Silver Metallic
Modern Steel Metallic
Fathom Blue Pearl
Performance Red Pearl
Apex Blue Pearl
A-Spec Exclusive Apex Blue Pearl
Interior Colors
Ebony
Graystone
Parchment
Red

2020 Acura RDX Prices and Market Value

The 2020 Acura RDX had a starting MSRP around $38,000, with higher trims reaching close to $48,000 when new. Current used market prices generally range from $25,000 to $35,000, depending on mileage, condition, and trim level.
Depreciation is moderate for the RDX, reflecting its reliability and brand reputation. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, service history, and the presence of desirable features like the Technology or A-Spec packages. Lower mileage examples with clean titles and complete service records command higher prices. Market demand for SUVs also influences resale values.

2020 Acura RDX Cost of Ownership

The 2020 Acura RDX presents moderate ownership costs. Insurance premiums are typical for a luxury compact SUV. Fuel costs are reasonable, considering its turbocharged engine. Maintenance is generally affordable, with regular service intervals. Repairs can be more expensive than non-luxury brands, especially for specialized components like the infotainment system or turbocharger. Long-term ownership costs are generally manageable if the vehicle is well-maintained. Overall, the RDX is neither the most economical nor the most costly vehicle to own in its class, striking a reasonable balance.

2020 Acura RDX Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 38.14 liters
City Mileage 4.76 km/l
Highway Mileage 3.7 km/l

2020 Acura RDX Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2020 Acura RDX Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2021-03-25
Recall no. 21v215000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2020 Acura Mdx, MDX Sport Hybrid, Rdx, Tlx, Honda Accord, Civic Hatchback, Insight, 2019 Acura Ilx, Honda Accord Hybrid, Civic Coupe, Civic Coupe SI, Civic Sedan, Civic Sedan SI, Civic Type R, Fit, Hr-V, Odyssey, Passport, Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 Cr-v Vehicles. THE Low-pressure Fuel Pump Inside THE Fuel Tank MAY Fail.
Consequence Fuel Pump Failure CAN Cause AN Engine Stall While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Assembly, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed MAY 18, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Note: This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Recall 20v-314.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Recall date 2023-03-09
Recall no. 23v158000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2017-2020 Cr-V, 2018-2019 Accord and Accord Hybrid, 2018-2020 Odyssey, 2019 Insight, and 2019-2020 Acura RDX Vehicles. A Manufacturing Issue With THE Front Seat Belts MAY Cause THE Seat Belt Buckle Channel TO Interfere With THE Release Button, Preventing THE Seat Belt Buckle From Latching.
Consequence AN Unlatched Seat Belt Cannot Properly Restrain THE Seat Occupant During A Crash, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Driver and Front Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Release Buttons or THE Buckle Assemblies AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed April 18, 2023. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Nda, Qdb, Bdc, Mdd, Ld9. Tdf, Fdg, Odh, Ydi, Zde.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2023-12-18
Recall no. 23v858000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, Cr-V, Hr-v, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura Ilx, Mdx, MDX Hybrid, Rdx, Rlx, Tlx, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda Cr-v Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity Phev, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX Vehicles. THE Fuel Pump Inside THE Fuel Tank MAY Fail.
Consequence Fuel Pump Failure CAN Cause AN Engine Stall While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Module, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed September 6, 2024. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE KGC and Kgd. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall Numbers 21v-215 and 20v-314.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger
Recall date 2024-02-01
Recall no. 24v064000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic Sedan, Hr-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic Coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic Hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 Cr-v, Cr-v Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura Mdx, 2022 Acura Mdx, 2020-2022 Acura Rdx, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX Vehicles. THE Front Passenger Seat Weight Sensor MAY Crack and Short Circuit, Failing TO Suppress THE AIR BAG AS Intended.
Consequence AN AIR BAG That Deploys Unintentionally During A Crash CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Seat Weight Sensors, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This IS A Phased Recall. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR These Recalls ARE XHP and Vhq.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2020 Acura RDX Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired

2020 Acura RDX Insurance

Insurance for a 2020 Acura RDX is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2020 Acura RDX Compare to Other Minivan?

The 2020 Acura RDX competes with other luxury compact SUVs like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Lexus NX, and Volvo XC60. In terms of performance, the RDX offers a sporty feel, though the X3 and Q5 might offer slightly quicker acceleration. The RDX boasts a strong value proposition, offering a generous list of standard features at a lower price point than some competitors.
Reliability is generally considered good, on par with the Lexus NX and better than some BMW and Audi models. The RDX's infotainment system is a point of contention; rivals like the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60 have more user-friendly interfaces. The Lexus NX prioritizes fuel efficiency and reliability, while the BMW X3 emphasizes performance and driving dynamics.
The Volvo XC60 offers a stylish design and advanced safety features. Alternatives to consider include the Mazda CX-5 (non-luxury but offers a premium feel at a lower price), or a certified pre-owned Lexus NX for similar reliability. The Acura RDX provides a well-rounded package, especially for those prioritizing value and a sporty driving experience.

Ranks #1235 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1235 2020 Acura RDX (0.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Acura RDX a Good Minivan?

The 2020 Acura RDX is an excellent choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded luxury compact SUV with a sporty driving experience, spacious interior, and a strong value proposition. It's ideal for individuals or small families who appreciate a blend of practicality and luxury. It's worth buying, particularly as a used vehicle, given the depreciation and the features offered for the price. The Technology trim strikes a good balance between features and cost, offering desirable upgrades like navigation and blind-spot monitoring. Ensure a thorough inspection, focusing on the infotainment system and maintenance history. If the touchpad infotainment system isn't a deal-breaker, the 2020 RDX offers a compelling package.

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Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma