The 2025 Acura RDX AWD A-SPEC, with its 2.0L turbocharged engine, gets 23 MPG combined. This isn’t class-leading, but it’s a known factor for those who want the A-SPEC’s sporty look and engaging driving in a practical compact SUV. Buyers aren’t only looking for the best fuel efficiency; they want a premium experience with visual flair, which the RDX A-SPEC provides. They understand that the turbo engine and standard all-wheel drive affect fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the RDX A-SPEC at 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The lower city number reflects the stop-and-go driving common in urban commutes, where the turbocharger is constantly working and using more fuel. The 26 MPG highway figure is better, showing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently once it reaches speed. Keep in mind that real-world numbers will change based on driving style, traffic, and even the type of fuel used.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost at $2,500 for the 2025 Acura RDX AWD A-SPEC. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your fuel costs will vary depending on your driving and local fuel prices. This figure is a useful baseline, but factor in your own driving when budgeting to own the vehicle.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers offer a standard. Expect real-world MPG to change. Fast acceleration, frequent short trips, and consistent use of the RDX’s sporty drive modes will hurt fuel economy. A more relaxed driving style and smooth acceleration can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Many owners say that consistent highway driving at moderate speeds can yield results slightly above the official 26 MPG rating.

How it compares

The Acura RDX is in a competitive group. The Lexus NX 350h, with its hybrid powertrain, gets a much better 39 MPG combined, but it drives differently, focusing on efficiency rather than performance. The BMW X3 xDrive30i gets a combined 25 MPG, slightly better than the RDX. The Audi Q5 45 TFSI quattro also gets a combined 25 MPG rating. These different priorities show that the RDX buyer has unique needs. They wouldn’t trade their RDX for a hybrid vehicle, even with its efficiency. This fuel economy context matters because the RDX A-SPEC buyer knows these trade-offs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the RDX’s “Econ” mode, which changes the throttle and transmission to focus on fuel efficiency. It might reduce the car’s responsiveness, but it can noticeably improve MPG, especially in cities.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and needs more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid fast acceleration and braking. Smooth inputs are safer and more fuel-efficient. Predict traffic and keep a steady speed to reduce energy use. Avoid “jackrabbit” starts which use more fuel.

Reduce weight inside the car. Extra cargo adds weight, which needs more energy to move. Remove items you don’t need to improve fuel economy. Don’t use the trunk for storage.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control helps keep a consistent speed, which can improve fuel efficiency versus changing your speed manually. This is effective on flat roads with little elevation change. You can find all Acura fuel economy data on our site, as well as RDX MPG across all years.