Honda goes with a 2.3L I4 TURBO. The whole point of VTEC was to AVOID the turbo! I'm gonna faint...

The highly anticipated Acura RDX Prototype SUV debuted today at the North American International Auto Show. Combining sport utility with sports sedan handling and performance, RDX features an innovative 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), and is designed to redefine the entry premium SUV segment. This near-production prototype provides an advance preview of the all-new RDX that will go on sale this summer.

"The RDX Prototype represents the forward thinking that will be seen in the next generation of Acura light trucks," said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. "It is loaded with leading edge technology and it exemplifies what we call intelligent performance: a sporty, luxurious and functional SUV that has outstanding performance yet is also fuel efficient."

RDX features an all-new 2.3-liter i-VTEC(R) four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 240 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque. This is the first application of forced induction technology in Acura history. The revolutionary i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a variable flow turbocharger, which is exclusive to the RDX, and provides dramatic performance benefits while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. To complement the all-aluminum high-performance engine, the RDX utilizes Acura's steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to manually operate the 5-speed sequential SportShift(TM) automatic transmission.

Acura's Super Handling-AWD system is tuned specifically for the new RDX platform. SH-AWD's sophisticated electronic controls automatically distribute torque fore and aft, as well as splitting the rear torque left to right. The result is dramatically enhanced handling, traction and stability during sporty driving as well as in inclement weather. A sophisticated chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension complement the SH-AWD. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) combines with large disc brakes and ABS to enhance control.

The RDX is built on an all-new global light truck platform. Reflecting Acura's commitment to safety through innovation, the RDX is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure and additional state-of-the-art safety features. The ACE structure helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area. The system also helps to provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants while at the same time increasing compatibility with other vehicles in a frontal collision. Front, side and side curtain airbags, in addition to rollover sensors add an extra measure of safety.

The chiseled exterior styling combines with a generous greenhouse to provide excellent visibility for driving in city traffic or on twisty mountain roads. RDX employs a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, sporty wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to an aggressive Acura signature five-sided grill. Custom 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX Prototype an aggressive stance. Dual exhaust tips, HID headlights, and a rear spoiler add to the sporty appearance of the vehicle.

Inside, the RDX combines richly appointed materials with a sporty, driver-oriented ****pit. The center console features an innovative storage system, which allows for hidden and lockable storage of a briefcase or laptop computer. The prototype's interior features an assortment of leading-edge technologies, such as the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM), AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system with real time traffic and HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface. A premium Acura/ELS(TM) DVD-Audio system is tuned to deliver rich surround sound to the cabin.

The RDX offers seating for five and a versatile rear cargo hatch allows for easy load-in and storage. The second row seats split and fold flat into the floor, providing ample cargo space for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.

The RDX will be assembled at Honda of America Manufacturing in Marysville, Ohio and will go on-sale in the summer of 2006. Pricing has not been determined.

Wow! Honda is pulling out all it's little tricks from the bag! First the 6MT sedan, now a turbo engine?! :eek: Maybe the SH-AWD Accord isn't as far fetched as I thought! :eek:

:bawl: i'm personally very disappointed. i love I(maybe admired is the better word!) how honda can extract more and more from just an engine. no need to do the turbo thing. this will just lower them down to the rest of the crowd. sure it will appeal to the morons who think that turbo is the ONLY way to equate to power, but....... well for purists. BAD IDEA. :grumpy:

So is this VTEC + Turbo?

If so I say, why not. The best of both worlds!

But Turbos are known oil COOKERS! No long oil drain intervals. And please don't let a Turbo go bad! :thumbsdow

Ask VW owners about their turbos. They run thru them under 100K. And the service intervals on a turbo car, even a light pressure turbo, are something like 3K oil changes ON SYNTHETIC. Beyond that, it looks really nasty and the turbo cooks it.

if you can make power without a turbo, DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!! it makes no real sense why they would put a turbo on any honda product..... not only do turbos depend on oil, but in a modern turbo system, there is a TON OF CRAP added to the engine electronics and engine systems to make it work efficiently and maintain emmisions and smooth driveability.......... avoid turbos if you can!!!

Well, I certainly will NEVER purchase any Turbo vehicle!!! And I know that there is a saying, "Never say Never" but as long as there are non-Turbos to be purchased I will say, I'll Never purchase a Turbo!!! :banana:

Does this mean the next-gen TSX will get the same engine ? Stevel, what's the reason you have Accord floor mats and trunk tray in your TL ?

Does this mean the next-gen TSX will get the same engine ? Stevel, what's the reason you have Accord floor mats and trunk tray in your TL ?
Those are in Anysias car...
see...

Stevels Sig...
mine.....'05 TL MT.
hers......'04 Nighthawk Black EX Crooked Accord Coupe(mt) ~ Accord all season floor mats and trunk tray.
anysia's blue cool beans coffee cup.

Two cars, one Accord and one TL...

stevel still does have Accord floor/trunk mats in his TL. They fit so he bought them and put them in...only wanted 2 floor mats and Accord mats are sold that way but TL's aren't.

my old all weather floor mats and trunk tray are in anysia's car. I bought new all weather accord front mats and trunk tray for the TL because from acura you have to buy a set of all four, which I didn't need or want. and the accord trunk tray was a little cheaper.... yeah, I'm cheap with things that are just meant to collect the dirt from my shoes, not wal-mart cheap though. and my acura dealer is kind of out of my way to get the stuff whereas my honda dealer is right down the street. not to mention yet, I like my honda dealer better, so if I can, I'll give them my money instead of acura. :thmsup:

I wouldn't touch a turbo with a ten-foot pole. I just absolutely CAN NOT believe how anyone could buy one. I guess maybe if you're gonna lease it and throw it away after three years, who cares if the engine is toast thereafter. Sheesh.

hurnnhh wtf? why is it that turbo engines can run for over 200k miles? aka volvos and saabs? and various turbo diesels?

sheesh, edjumakate yourself before assuming turbos are bad for your engine.

You're comparing diesels to gas engines? You joking? If a turbo diesel stopped at 300K, I'd say something went wrong. Even GM and Dodge can make a turbo diesel go 350-500K miles.

Any engine can run 200K miles if you keep pouring money into it. Saabs and Volvo's aren't exactly known for their legendary reliability.

wtf??? :jawdrop: :puke: :eek: :paranoid:

i am sure that the engine will still last, but, if they have never used a turbo before, why start now?????

hurnnhh wtf? why is it that turbo engines can run for over 200k miles? aka volvos and saabs? and various turbo diesels?

sheesh, edjumakate yourself before assuming turbos are bad for your engine.
I have been edjumakated by saab as well as audi..... turbos are NOT worth it if power can be made without them.

I have been edjumakated by saab as well as audi..... turbos are NOT worth it if power can be made without them.


tru, tru, i guess people are spoilt by forced induction, since it offers sort of best of both worlds if driven correctly.

i have seen turboed cars last well past the 200k mark though.

tru, tru, i guess people are spoilt by forced induction, since it offers sort of best of both worlds if driven correctly.

i have seen turboed cars last well past the 200k mark though.
saab turbos used to last forever. there were incredibly reliable turbo systems. but even they have begun failing way too much, they aren't like they used to be.

tru, tru, i guess people are spoilt by forced induction, since it offers sort of best of both worlds if driven correctly.

i have seen turboed cars last well past the 200k mark though.
any car can last as long as the owner is willing to sink the neccessary money into it to keep it running. thats not saying it's a good car, it's simply saying someone doesn't want to let go of their car.... aka stiller fan disease. :lmao:

saab turbos used to last forever. there were incredibly reliable turbo systems. but even they have begun failing way too much, they aren't like they used to be.
That's only because they got taken over by GM....:lmao:

I agree that turbo cars don't last nearly as long as N/A cars and I will try to avoid buying a car with a turbo unless I'm going to lease.

I wouldn't touch a turbo with a ten-foot pole. I just absolutely CAN NOT believe how anyone could buy one. I guess maybe if you're gonna lease it and throw it away after three years, who cares if the engine is toast thereafter. Sheesh.
it;s all in that dumba$$ idea that power is gawd.


:rolleyes:

and that power can only be achieved by turbo and supercharging and random crapola.

stupid things the american public begs for and guess what? they have possibly gotten even honda to cave.

what is this world coming too????


i plead with the idiot americna public STOP BEGGING FOR STUPID CRAP!!!!!

any car can last as long as the owner is willing to sink the neccessary money into it to keep it running. thats not saying it's a good car, it's simply saying someone doesn't want to let go of their car.... aka stiller fan disease. :lmao:

terminally ill...... :lmao: :nuts: :yes: :thmsup:

it;s all in that dumba$$ idea that power is gawd.


:rolleyes:

and that power can only be achieved by turbo and supercharging and random crapola.

stupid things the american public begs for and guess what? they have possibly gotten even honda to cave.

what is this world coming too????


i plead with the idiot americna public STOP BEGGING FOR STUPID CRAP!!!!!


the europeans did turbos all the time.

hurnnhh wtf? why is it that turbo engines can run for over 200k miles? aka volvos and saabs? and various turbo diesels?

sheesh, edjumakate yourself before assuming turbos are bad for your engine.


aaa u from v6p too ehhh :salue:

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b5/ItsaHonda/AcuraRDX8.jpg
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Turbocharged Acura RDX Debuts At 2006 New York Auto Show

New York, NY - April 12, 2006 -- The all-new 2007 Acura RDX Entry Premium SUV, made its production debut at the New York Auto Show today. RDX combines Acura's first-ever turbocharged engine with the breakthrough Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), for sports sedan-like handling in a SUV package.

"The all-new RDX is an exciting entry to the Acura light truck lineup for 2007," said John Mendel, senior vice president, auto operations, "The RDX's innovative powertrain coupled with SH-AWD provides this SUV with excellent fuel economy and outstanding performance."

The RDX is aimed at high-energy urbanites that spend the work week in the confines of the city, and then decompress on the weekends by getting away from it all. Regardless of where they go, these drivers expect the ultimate in responsiveness, control and adaptability.

Built on a new global light truck platform, the RDX concept was first designed in California and then developed in Japan. Besides featuring precedent-setting engineering features including Acura's first turbocharged and intercooled engine and the first adaptation of a SH-AWD(TM) system to an SUV, the RDX also offers Acura's first standard 18-inch wheels and tires.

True to form for Acura, the RDX incorporates a class-leading array of sophisticated electronic technologies that are seamlessly integrated to keep its passengers informed, entertained and in touch. The RDX also introduces new safety technologies based on the fundamentals of Acura's "Safety Through Innovation" initiative.

As Acura's first Entry Premium SUV, the RDX was the focal point of the development of a special powertrain that would blend 4-cylinder efficiency and 6-cylinder power. The ideal solution came in the form of an innovative new variable flow turbo (VFT) that delivers an unusually broad powerband with little or no lag in throttle response. The RDX is equipped with an all-new 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve in-line four-cylinder engine with i-VTEC valve control that combines Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) with Variable Timing Control (VTC). With the variable flow turbo working in concert with i-VTEC, the RDX delivers strong power and torque, excellent fuel economy and very low emissions.

Rated output for the RDX engine is 240 horsepower SAE net* at 6000 rpm. In terms of torque, the RDX has the highest output of any engine in the Acura lineup, with 260 lbs.-ft. of torque SAE net* at 4500 rpm. The RDX is expected to return an EPA-estimated 19/24** City/Highway mileage, while meeting strict CARB LEV-2 ULEV and EPA Tier-2 Bin-5 emissions standards.

A 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is standard. The electronically controlled drive-by-wire throttle and transmission work together to execute shifts, resulting in exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The transmission can function as a conventional automatic transmission or, at the driver's option, can be shifted manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddles.

SH-AWD(TM) is standard in the RDX to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness. SH-AWD(TM) is Acura's patented all-wheel drive system that distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels. The system's direct yaw control helps reduce understeer to enhance steering accuracy and add to total cornering power.

Responsive handling is further aided by fully independent front and rear suspensions. The MacPherson strut front and trailing arm-type multilink rear systems are tuned for compliant control, and assisted with front and rear anti-roll bars for flatter cornering. Standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) with traction control further enhances controllability and grip.

The RDX exterior styling further emphasizes the SUV's sporty athleticism. It has a taut, muscular presence with standard 18-inch wheels and tires that work together with large wheel arches, aggressively raked body sides, a steeply raked windscreen and a short rear overhang. A unique rear hatch, finished with a replaceable panel to reduce the cost of accident repair, allows the rear of the body to smoothly transition to the rear bumper. This permits a more custom look and also eases the act of loading and unloading cargo.

Inside the RDX, the front-seats feature a high "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 cargo volume to 60.6 cubic feet of storage. There are multiple interior storage compartments positioned throughout the interior, including a large (and lockable) dual-level center console located conveniently between the front seats that can securely accommodate a briefcase.

The RDX features an array of electronic features that set it apart from the competition. These include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a Multi-Information Display (MID), and LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination. Also standard is an impressive 360-watt 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with a multi-format 6-disc changer, AM/FM tuner, XM(R) Satellite Radio, and the convenience of an MP3/auxiliary input jack for easily connecting audio devices such as an iPod.

Just one optional package is offered on the RDX. The Technology Package heightens the RDX's appeal to technology-savvy customers with a range of advanced features. The centerpiece is a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround(TM) Premium Sound System designed by legendary recording engineer Elliott Scheiner. When playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-A), this advanced 410-watt system delivers eight discreet audio channels (instead of the usual two) to create an uncannily accurate listening experience. With its multi-format 6-disc DVD-A changer, AM/FM tuner and XM(R) Satellite Radio, the system is as versatile as it is powerful.

The Technology Package also includes several information and communications such as HandsFreeLink(TM) and the Acura Navigation system. HandFreeLink is a wireless telephone interface that is designed to work with many Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones (sold separately). In addition, the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.

The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow, accidents, construction and weather conditions on freeways in 31 major metro areas (where available). When the transmission is placed in reverse, the Navigation screen displays the image from a rearview camera to make parking easier. In addition, the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.

Technological leadership also extends to safety engineering. The RDX's Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure substantially contributes to passenger safety. ACE(TM) distributes collision loads through the body structure, leaving the passenger cabin more intact for improved occupant protection. Specially designed frame members make the RDX more compatible with smaller vehicles in the event of a vehicle-to-vehicle frontal collision. Likewise, a specially engineered hood and other components help reduce the chances of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision with the vehicle.

Inside the RDX is a full complement of passive safety features. Key technologies include the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. Child-seat mounting systems, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), allow the quick and secure installation of a child seats.

The RDX will be assembled in Marysville, Ohio, on the same line as the Acura TL sedan. It is the first Acura light truck to come from the facility.

Like all Acura models, the 2007 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 (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

*Preliminary mileage estimates determined by Acura. Final EPA mileage estimates were not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage may vary.

*All horsepower and torque specifications reflect revised SAE J1349 net calculations.

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The Interior:

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I don't usually like SUV's, but this one's a winner! :D

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b5/ItsaHonda/AcuraRDX12.jpgManual front seat... yeah this one's a winner :thumbsdow

As a recent VW 1.8t Passat owner, I must note I'm not seeing a whole lot of turbo-love here...lol !

At 200k, my former 1.8t consumes no oil, has never had an engine repair other than one valve cover gasket, and never made any strange noises! Needless to say, my godson is delighted with it now.

Now longevity on a turbo requires that you pay attention to the oil its fed. Mine enjoyed its factory fill, then the first oil change was plain old dino at 5k to ensure a good break-in, then from 10k on it got Mobil1 5w-30 at 5k interals. VW noted sludging and coking problems on the 1997 - 1998 1.8t's and implemented a heat shield then subsequently a requirement for synthetic oil.

I'd think the 2.3 turbo from Honda would be a super motor. This from a guy who has yet to really explore his v6, 6mt yet......But my experience is that everyone would LOVE the torque and the chip tuning thats bound to become available. From my persepective and experience, light pressure turbos are totally reliable.

But what I really want........that European Honda diesel..........oh boy !

Manual front seat... yeah this one's a winner :thumbsdow
Eh... It's the passenger seat. I could care less. :D Besides, I much prefer a manual seat recline! I hate waiting for the power seat to recline all the way when I want to lie down while waiting for someone in my car!

As a recent VW 1.8t Passat owner, I must note I'm not seeing a whole lot of turbo-love here...lol I love how most turbo engines produce more torque than hp (hp isn't all it's hyped up to be), but I hate turbo lag! The 2.3L turbo is supposed to has special valves to help make the turbo spool up faster and given that it's a Honda, I'm sure they will make the engine feel as much like a Honda as possible... (ie flat torque band across most of the rpm range :yes: ) Hey. If the aftermarket's been able to do it all these years, why not Honda themselves? :D

Im not extremely happy about the turbo thing. But maybe Honda can perfect it, that's what they did with SH-AWD. My Wife Karen had a Saab 9-3 (last gen 2003 model) she loved it. It wasn't that troublesome either. The Braakes wore fast, as did the tires at only 28k when we sold it, but overall it was a good car, and our neghiboor who has a Saab 900 (older 9-3) has run his past 150k with no major issues to report. I think we need to look on the birght side. This is aan opportunity for Honda make the Turbo revolutionary by making it work seemlessly, and reliably.
Which I have no doubt they will.

Take a look at the new 911 turbo, they've made the turbo lag almost a thing of the past. The fitted the exhasut pipe upstream of the turbine with a veneer (if that's the right word) changing the effective diameter of the pipe. Smaller at low RPMs and wide open at high RPMs. The effect constant fast air to run the turbines (kind of like squeezing a hose when the water pressure is low). So now they get the full effect as low as 1950 RPM, or so they claim.

Saab almost got it right... I test drove a Saab 9-3 2.0L turbo two years back and I couldn't even tell it was a turbo until I got out of the car and it was an automatic to boot! VW's turbos are also very good and I could see Honda's first attempt at a turbo application work out smoothly. They got too much on the line to flop their first turbo/ intro of a new car.

Karen's was an AT 9-3 too. I loved it. The S on top of the gear shift for sport was fun! Built nice and solid too if you ask me. Nothing GM about it IMO. The new ones are another story...

I hate how this thing looks. Nice catch on the manual power seat but I don't think it's a big deal. For me I like manual seats...I spent forever and beyond trying to find a comfortable position in super complex all way power seats. My uncle's 540i with 16 way comfort seats was impossible to get real comfortable in :lmao:

Turbos are okay, if you run Mobil 1 for 200K @ 5K intervals. If you're like most people and go 7500-10000 miles on dino oil and just turn off the car after a hard drive well...good luck.

I love the 8-way power seats in the accord... until the guy at the dealer or at discount tire changes it. Then it feels like I can't ever find that perfect position again. So as long as it has memory seats for the driver, and the passenger seat is comfy for my wife, I could care less if the passenger seat was auto or manual. And the more I look at this thing, the nicer it looks. Didn't really like it in silver, but that red looks nice.

I guess I'm one of the few that will swim against the tide but I think the new model is killer. If an Accord turbo is ever available I'll be the first in line.....providing it's a manual shift. All I would add would be a turbo timer if it wasn't offered.

I'm of the opinion that when the world's largest engine maker comes out with a revolutionary diesel and a turbo gasoline engine, they have done their homework to the Nth degree.
This wasn't a spur of the moment decision you know.

With so much on the line these two engines have to be right the first time with Honda's name on them.

Eww gross...


It looks like a Tribecca in the back..

and..

My taste-- An suv is supposed to look like an older grand cherokee (99--04) or a 4 runner or something like that.. Not a oversized station wagon..

They are going too car like for me

I guess I'm one of the few that will swim against the tide but I think the new model is killer. If an Accord turbo is ever available I'll be the first in line.....providing it's a manual shift. All I would add would be a turbo timer if it wasn't offered.
:yes: :yes: :yes:
Unfortunately, TTs aren't usually offered even as a factory option. :thumbsdow

Then that would be my 1st mod!

Then that would be my 1st mod!
My first mod would probably be a DEI alarm and remote starter with a built in TT.. :)