24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but it’s an acceptable number for the 2022 Acura RDX FWD A-SPEC. This isn’t a hybrid, nor is it trying to be. It’s a sporty, stylish, and genuinely fun-to-drive compact SUV aimed at buyers who prioritize a premium experience and sharp handling over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gas. These buyers understand the trade-offs and are willing to accept mid-pack fuel economy in exchange for the RDX’s other strengths.

City and highway performance

The A-SPEC’s 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers an adequate 22 MPG in the city. Stop-and-go traffic will pull that number down, but the engine’s strong torque makes navigating urban environments easy. On the highway, the RDX fares slightly better, achieving 27 MPG. This figure reflects that turbocharged engines often perform well on the open road, particularly when paired with a transmission that offers a wide range of ratios like this one. The key to hitting that 27 MPG is to resist the urge to constantly dip into the power, as aggressive acceleration will quickly diminish fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Acura RDX FWD A-SPEC at exactly $2,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your personal fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. Drivers who primarily stick to city driving should expect to spend a bit more than $2,400 annually, while those who mostly drive on the highway could see slightly lower costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Many RDX owners report figures close to the EPA numbers under normal driving conditions. However, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extreme weather conditions can all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Regularly monitoring your fuel consumption, using the trip computer to track MPG on individual trips, and adjusting your driving habits accordingly can help you achieve the best possible fuel economy. The RDX A-SPEC is designed to provide an enjoyable driving experience, but that doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice fuel efficiency entirely.

How it compares

The Acura RDX’s fuel economy is competitive, but not class-leading. The BMW X3 sDrive30i, a rear-wheel-drive competitor, manages a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The Lexus NX 250, another popular option, also achieves 25 MPG combined. An apples-to-apples AWD RDX configuration drops the mileage slightly, making the FWD A-SPEC model the best choice for those who want the RDX’s styling and features with the least possible MPG hit. The Genesis GV70 2.5T AWD offers more power than the RDX but pays the price at the pump, delivering a combined 24 MPG despite its focus on luxury. For buyers prioritizing the greatest less gas usage, a hybrid option like the Lexus NX 350h (41 MPG combined) might be a better choice. However, those options trade away some of the RDX’s engaging driving dynamics and tailored A-SPEC interior that appeals to enthusiast drivers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The RDX’s turbocharged engine is responsive, but excessive throttle use quickly diminishes fuel economy. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipation of traffic conditions can significantly improve your MPG. Use the adaptive cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary acceleration and braking. The system is surprisingly effective at maintaining a safe following distance while optimizing fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a small pressure difference can make a noticeable difference in fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds weight, which requires more energy to move the vehicle. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk or backseat to reduce the load on the engine. Every pound counts, especially in a smaller vehicle like the RDX.

Consider using the RDX’s drive modes for optimal efficiency. “Econ” mode remaps the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel economy. While it may slightly reduce performance, it can be beneficial for everyday commuting. You can easily toggle between drive modes using the center console-mounted drive mode selector.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased fuel economy and potentially more serious problems down the road. For all Acura fuel economy data, including the RDX MPG across all years, browse our resources.