Acura already has compact, commonplace, and even EV SUV segments lined with the RDX, MDX, and ZDX respectively, leaving solely the pint-sized subcompact format unaccounted for. That’s set to vary shortly, with Acura’s latest entry-level SUV slated to hit the scene in early 2025. Whereas Acura has left quite a bit to the creativeness relating to the brand new ADX, there are some robust context clues as to the way it will form up.
Commercial
Over at Honda, Acura’s less-luxurious mother or father firm, the subcompact HR-V SUV acquired a significant glow-up in 2023 and, given Acura’s historical past of borrowing and repurposing Honda chassis, the brand new ADX will probably glean fairly a bit from the just lately reworked HR-V. Granted, Acura exists in a luxurious class above Honda, so the ADX is predicted to obtain perks that may make it aggressive with fashions from BMW, Audi, and Lexus which occupy the identical house. Acura has already confirmed that the ADX will function a extra substantial turbocharged powertrain than the one discovered within the Honda HR-V and a extra upscale inside is a given. With Acura shifting away from commonplace front-wheel drive in favor of its clever SH-AWD system within the RDX compact crossover, the ADX may supply the partaking all-wheel drive system as nicely.
Commercial
The ADX will probably obtain the 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder from the Integra
At this time limit, the precise powertrain particulars for the ADX are tucked away in a Manila folder with a “prime secret” sticker working throughout the highest, however a few hints have made it out. Within the ADX’s press launch, Acura states that the mannequin will come outfitted with a turbocharged engine, which instantly eliminates some unfavorable choices. The Honda HR-V is fitted with an underwhelming 2.0-liter four-cylinder that may solely muster 158 horsepower. It’s naturally aspirated, although, so it is secure to imagine that it will not hop below the hood of the ADX.
Commercial
A extra practical choice for the ADX is the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder present in each the Honda Civic Si and Acura Integra. That engine is actually a step-up, introducing 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque to the bottom. In Automotive and Driver’s take a look at of the 2025 Honda Civic which options the 1.5-liter turbo 4, they notice the engine’s lack of turbo lag and zippy character as excessive factors, particularly when paired to a six-speed handbook.
On condition that the powertrain already crosses model boundaries and is discovered within the 2025 Acura Integra as nicely, it might be the predictable alternative for the ADX. Within the new Integra, the four-banger will be paired with both a six-speed or a repeatedly variable automated transmission that some think about uninspired. Contemplating that not one of the fashions within the fashionable Acura SUV lineup supply a handbook transmission, the ADX will most likely solely supply a CVT. The ADX will probably be notably heavier than the Integra, however even with the added weight the 1.5-liter turbo engine ought to present sufficient oomph to make the ADX partaking, even when it is just accessible with a CVT.
Commercial
The ADX will get the Acura inside remedy
With Acura being Honda’s luxurious model, it’s truthful to say that the ADX will obtain the Acura inside remedy, with a decent variety of commonplace options and a sophisticated, premium really feel. We just lately reviewed the 2024 Acura MDX Sort S and gave significantly excessive marks to its inside fit-and-finish. Whereas it is perhaps a bit optimistic to match Acura’s three-row flagship SUV to its new entry-level subcompact, the DNA is shared. As to be anticipated being the premium model, Acura interiors persistently outclass the interiors of comparable automobiles provided by Honda, and the ADX will nearly actually proceed the development when pitted in opposition to the HR-V.
Commercial
The Honda HR-V’s basis is Civic by means of and thru, together with an identical stylish however uninspired inside. For the reason that ADX will probably be the equal of the HR-V however with the Integra as its basis, there is a good probability that it’s going to function an identical intellectual inside full with leatherette touches, an upgraded sound system, and commonplace heated seats. In spite of everything, the ADX must be a aggressive providing in a section that is stuffed with luxury-forward choices together with the BMW X1 and Audi Q3, which function premium interiors of their very own.
There is a good probability it should get non-obligatory all-wheel drive
The overwhelming majority of Acura automobiles include front-wheel drive as commonplace, together with the Integra, MDX, and — previous to 2024 — the RDX. The Honda HR-V can also be outfitted with front-wheel drive as commonplace. Placing all the puzzle items collectively, it solely is sensible that the ADX is prone to comply with within the front-wheel tire tracks of its kinfolk in base type. That does not imply that the ADX will not obtain an all-wheel drive choice. Actually, the percentages of non-obligatory all-wheel drive for the ADX are favorable.
Commercial
Acura did away with front-wheel drive utterly within the RDX compact SUV, because the all-wheel drive trim of the mannequin bought significantly better. As an alternative of constructing an everyday all-wheel drive system commonplace on the RDX, Acura outfitted it with its Tremendous Dealing with All-Wheel Drive system, which makes use of torque vectoring to distribute energy between completely different wheels and supply traction the place it’s wanted. It’s particularly helpful throughout high-speed cornering, as it will probably ship 70% of the engine’s torque to the rear outdoors wheel, limiting oversteer and maximizing rotation. All of that to say, the SH-AWD system that’s now commonplace on the RDX is each practical and enjoyable and could be a welcomed choice for the ADX as nicely.
Whereas all however certainly one of Acura’s SUV choices are at the moment provided with SH-AWD, the ADX will likely be an entry-level automobile, which means that it would get a much less superior all-wheel drive choice just like the one utilized by the HR-V. Regardless, it’s thrilling to assume that front-wheel drive — in all chance — will not be the one drivetrain choice for the ADX.
Commercial