24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but it represents the practical compromises in the 2021 Acura RDX FWD A-SPEC. This isn’t a hybrid. It’s a stylish, sporty-leaning compact SUV geared toward urban professionals and empty-nesters who want a premium experience without sacrificing driving enjoyment. Fuel economy, while a consideration, often plays second fiddle to the RDX’s overall package of features, aesthetics, and that intangible Acura feel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the RDX FWD A-SPEC at 22 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.0L turbocharged engine is constantly revving and decelerating. On the open road, however, the RDX performs better, taking advantage of its 10-speed automatic transmission to settle into a more efficient cruising speed. This spread highlights the importance of considering individual driving habits; those who primarily navigate urban environments will likely see figures closer to the lower end of the spectrum, while highway drivers may match or even slightly exceed the 27 MPG rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Acura RDX FWD A-SPEC at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing running costs between vehicles, but bear in mind that your actual expenses will depend on your personal driving habits, the type of fuel you purchase, and regional price variations. For instance, drivers who rack up significantly more miles or consistently opt for premium gasoline (which the RDX recommends but doesn’t require) will see their annual fuel bill climb accordingly.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many owners report figures slightly below the 24 MPG combined rating, particularly in areas with heavy traffic congestion or aggressive driving styles. However, careful driving and adherence to recommended maintenance schedules can help owners achieve closer to the official numbers. The A-Spec trim adds sporty visual enhancements which encourage drivers to drive it harder. The RDX remains sensitive to driving style, and more aggressive habits will drain fuel more quickly. This is an unavoidable consequence of the A-SPEC’s design intent.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2021 Acura RDX FWD A-SPEC occupies a middle ground in terms of fuel economy. For example, the front-wheel-drive Lexus NX 300 boasts a slightly better EPA combined number of 25 MPG. Similar trims of the BMW X3 hover around 25-29 combined, depending on the specific engine configuration, and the Genesis GV70 with its standard 2.5-liter turbo offers a combined rating of 24 MPG, matching the RDX. The Volvo XC60 FWD achieves 26 MPG combined.

This comparison matters because buyers in this segment are often cross-shopping these vehicles, weighing factors like fuel economy against design, features, and brand cachet. See all Acura fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The RDX’s turbocharged engine responds well to a light foot, and anticipating traffic flow can significantly reduce fuel consumption. Gradual acceleration allows the turbo to spool up efficiently, avoiding unnecessary fuel dumping.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. It’s a simple task with measurable benefits.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel without moving the vehicle. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine to save fuel. Modern engine start-stop systems can help with this, though the RDX doesn’t have one.

Remember to check RDX MPG across all years when comparing models.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on the open road can improve fuel efficiency. Cruise control helps prevent unintentional speeding and jerky acceleration, both of which contribute to fuel wastage. Set it and forget it for optimal MPG.

Keep up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure that the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and performs better overall.