The 2018 Acura RDX AWD with its 3.5L V6 gets 22 MPG combined. While it’s not the most fuel-efficient, it suits the priorities of its buyer. Hypermilers aren’t buying this vehicle. The RDX owner wants a blend of luxury, reliability, and enough power for confident merging, and they know the strong V6 and all-wheel drive system have a predictable cost at the pump. This is a trade-off they are generally willing to make.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway accurately portray the RDX’s driving. City driving, with its stop-and-go nature, impacts fuel consumption, a common issue for naturally aspirated V6 engines. The RDX’s smooth and responsive engine makes urban commutes easier. On the open road, the 27 MPG highway rating is achievable if you avoid using too much engine power. The six-speed automatic transmission balances acceleration with fuel efficiency, favoring higher gears at cruising speeds to keep RPMs low.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Acura RDX AWD, based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, is $2,650. This figure shows what owners can expect to spend fueling their RDX annually. Gasoline price changes will directly impact this cost. Higher prices increase your annual fuel expenditure and lower prices will result in savings.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standardized benchmark, but real-world MPG for the 2018 RDX AWD can vary based on driving habits, terrain, and weather. Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and sustained high-speed driving will decrease fuel economy. A gentler driving style, consistent speeds, and minimizing idling can help drivers get close to or exceed the EPA estimates. Regular maintenance, including proper tire inflation and timely oil changes, helps optimize fuel efficiency. Check FuelEconomy.gov, the EPA’s official fuel economy web site, for user-submitted fuel economy data.

How it compares

The 2018 RDX’s fuel economy is roughly in the middle of its class. The Lexus NX 300, gets 24 MPG combined in its base configuration, prioritizing lower fuel costs. The BMW X3 xDrive30i (24 MPG combined) offers similar performance and features, but gets comparable mileage despite its turbocharged engine. The Acura’s slightly lower MPG doesn’t deter its typical buyer, who values the RDX’s V6 power, Acura’s reputation for reliability, and a more accessible price. For Acura fuel economy data, check other sources.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The RDX’s 3.5L V6 delivers satisfying power, but acceleration consumes extra fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration will improve your MPG, especially in city driving.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway. Cruise control can help prevent speed fluctuations that negatively impact fuel economy. Variations in speed, even a few MPH, add up over long distances.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb. Adjust for temperature changes.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you expect to be stationary for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars, including the RDX, are designed to restart quickly.

Consider your route. Planning your route to avoid congested areas can reduce fuel consumption. Using navigation apps to identify and bypass traffic jams can lead to smoother, more fuel-efficient journeys. For RDX MPG across all years, review data from various sources.