22 MPG combined. That’s the number facing anyone considering a 2015 Acura RDX 4WD with the 3.5L V6. It’s not going to win any green awards, but it’s a figure acceptable, even expected, by the core demographic: upwardly mobile professionals and young families prioritizing reliability, a touch of luxury, and available all-weather capability over lower fuel costs. These buyers value the RDX’s blend of confident power and Acura’s reputation, accepting the fuel cost as a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway for the 2015 RDX 4WD. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic where the engine spends a considerable amount of time idling or accelerating from a standstill. The highway number is more achievable during steady-state cruising, but underscores the limitations of a naturally aspirated V6 in a vehicle of this size and weight. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth and reliable, also contributes to the less-than-stellar numbers compared to more modern 8- or 9-speed units.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2015 Acura RDX 4WD. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (more city versus highway), and, of course, prevailing fuel prices in your area. Someone who primarily drives short distances in the city will likely spend far more, while a driver who frequently takes long highway trips could potentially spend less.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently match the EPA figures in real-world driving, especially if you drive aggressively. Many owners report averaging around 20-23 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips (where the engine doesn’t reach optimal operating temperature), and using the air conditioning regularly will all negatively impact your fuel economy. Conversely, using a light foot and anticipating traffic flow can help you get closer to the advertised numbers.

How it compares

Compared to its contemporaries, the 2015 RDX’s fuel economy is neither exceptional nor terrible. A 2015 BMW X3 xDrive28i with its 2.0L turbo-four offered a slightly better 24 MPG combined, while delivering a different driving experience. The Audi Q5 2.0T, another popular competitor, also claimed 24 MPG combined. However, stepping up to the Q5 3.0T with its supercharged V6 brought the combined MPG down to RDX levels. The Lexus NX 200t, which entered the market that year, also offered similar fuel economy in the low to mid 20s. For RDX shoppers, the key differentiator often isn’t pure fuel economy, but the perception of Acura’s reliability and the proven nature of its V6 engine, a deliberate choice for those wary of turbocharging complexities. You can find all Acura fuel economy data on our site, or dive deeper into the RDX MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. This RDX doesn’t need to be floored to merge onto the highway. Gradual increases in speed will significantly reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving where you’re constantly starting and stopping. The instant MPG readout in the instrument cluster can train you to drive more efficiently. Pay attention to it and adjust your driving style accordingly.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a small difference in pressure can impact fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra items in the trunk or rear seats adds weight to the vehicle, which in turn reduces fuel efficiency. Remove anything that isn’t essential, contributing to a lighter load and improved MPG. This is especially true for heavy items that are seldom used.

Avoid excessive idling. Modern engines don’t require extended warm-up periods, especially in moderate temperatures. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling wastes fuel and contributes to unnecessary emissions. This is particularly relevant in congested city environments.

Use cruise control intelligently. On long highway drives, cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed, optimizing fuel efficiency. However, avoid using it in hilly terrain or heavy traffic, as the system may over-accelerate to maintain the set speed, negating any potential fuel savings.