24 MPG combined is something to consider if you’re looking at the 2020 Acura RDX with front-wheel drive and its 2.0L turbocharged engine. It’s decent, particularly for a vehicle that provides a good level of luxury and utility. However, it’s not the best in its class, and potential buyers should understand what that fuel economy number means for them. This RDX is best for a buyer who values a comfortable, tech-forward cabin and a fun driving experience more than getting every possible mile per gallon. They want a premium experience and might not care as much about squeezing out every last drop like someone considering a hybrid competitor.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway for this RDX configuration. The city number reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic, which the RDX doesn’t particularly like, while the highway number is more acceptable. The 2.0L turbo needs some RPMs to really get moving, and that means lower efficiency in cities. On the open road, the 10-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine at its most efficient, which leads to better numbers. These figures reflect a balance by Acura to deliver strong performance without completely ignoring fuel usage.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Acura RDX FWD with the 2.0L engine is $2,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. What you actually spend will vary based on your driving habits and local fuel costs. If you mainly drive in the city or tend to accelerate quickly, expect to spend more than that amount. Likewise, if you drive fewer miles per year than the EPA estimate, your yearly costs will be less. The $2,400 figure gives you a standard way to compare running costs with other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a benchmark, but real-world MPG can change quite a bit. Expect changes based on driving style, terrain, and climate. Quick acceleration and frequent hard stops will decrease fuel economy. Uphill driving will also use more gas. Colder temperatures often reduce MPG, so those in colder climates may see lower numbers during the winter. Tire inflation and vehicle maintenance have a big effect, too. Keeping your tires properly inflated and following the recommended maintenance schedule will help ensure you get the best possible mileage. Check RDX MPG across all years to see how this model year compares to previous and later versions.

How it compares

The RDX’s fuel economy is about average for its class. The Lexus NX 300, for example, gets 22 MPG combined. The BMW X3 sDrive30i, with a similar engine, also gets around 25 MPG combined. An Audi Q5 gets about 25 MPG combined, too. These are similar premium compact SUVs, and their MPG numbers show that. Someone primarily concerned with using less gas might consider a hybrid like the Lexus NX 300h (31 MPG combined), accepting less power and performance for better fuel savings. Buyers should also analyze all Acura fuel economy data to see how the RDX compares to other vehicles in Acura’s lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the RDX’s drive mode selector. The “Econ” mode focuses on fuel efficiency by changing how the throttle responds and how the transmission behaves. It might feel a bit slow at times, but it can make a difference in MPG, especially when driving in the city. Switch to “Econ” when cruising consistently or when you don’t need to accelerate quickly.

Avoid letting the engine idle unnecessarily. Modern engines are very efficient, and restarting them uses less fuel than letting them idle for long periods of time. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This can add up, and it matches a driving style that anticipates traffic flow.

Tire maintenance is important. Regularly check your tire pressure to make sure it matches the recommended PSI listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and reduces fuel economy. Buy a good tire pressure gauge and check them at least once a month.

Reduce the weight in the car. Carrying weight in your RDX hurts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t regularly use from the trunk and back seats. The lighter the vehicle, the less energy it takes to accelerate and maintain speed, and the junk adds up.

Plan routes and avoid rush hour. Choosing routes with fewer stops will improve fuel economy. Use navigation apps to identify and avoid congested areas. Driving smoothly and consistently is more fuel-efficient than constantly accelerating and stopping in heavy traffic.