Introduction
Acura is entering a new chapter, and the 2025 ADX, a subcompact SUV, is poised to be the brand’s affordable gateway. In a market dominated by SUVs, Acura aims to capture new buyers with a vehicle retaining the sporty spirit of the Integra.
The Acura ADX is a handsome, well-equipped, entry-level luxury SUV that’s 90% of the way to being a great vehicle.
This all-new model arrives with a starting price of $35,000, placing it at the lower end of the luxury subcompact SUV market.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sporty and muscular exterior
- Competitive starting price
- Upscale interior with distinctive color options
- Available premium Bang & Olufsen audio system
- Adequate cargo space
Cons
- Requires premium fuel for optimal performance
- Continuously variable transmission (CVT) diminishes the sense of power
- Infotainment could be more intuitive
- Road noise is noticeable
Pricing and Trims
The 2025 Acura ADX will be available in several trims, each with a different price point:
- ADX (FWD): $35,000
- ADX (AWD): $37,000
- ADX A-Spec (FWD): $38,000
- ADX A-Spec (AWD): $40,000
- ADX A-Spec with Advance (FWD): $42,000
- ADX A-Spec with Advance (AWD): $44,000
These prices do not include an additional $1,350 destination charge. Several dealer-installed accessories will also be available.
Exterior Design
The ADX, as seen on other Acura models, features a “Diamond Pentagon” grille. The body lines contribute to the sporty SUV aesthetic, with a clamshell hood and sharp daytime running lights.
Compared to the larger RDX, the ADX presents a lower-profile appearance, sporting a shorter wheelbase that alters the look of the vehicle. The base model features 18-inch alloys, while the A-Spec trim receives 19-inch Shark Gray wheels. The A-Spec Advance trim offers black exterior details and Berlina black wheels.
Performance
Equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT, the ADX produces 190 horsepower, which is slightly less than Integra models with the identical engine.
While the CVT is tuned to mimic a traditional automatic, it can sometimes result in elevated engine RPM noise. Shifting to “Sport” mode and engaging the most aggressive settings for “shifting” and throttle response notably improves the driving experience, though it increases cabin noise.
Handling
The ADX provides a sport-tuned suspension system, with MacPherson struts in the front and multilink rear suspension. Even with the engine’s power limitations, the setup helps maintain momentum.
While not as sharp as vehicles like the BMW X1, the Acura provides reasonable steering feedback, and the electric steering system’s variable ratio aids on-center cruising and offers increased responsiveness in Sport mode. Large brake discs contribute to effective stopping power.
Off-Road Capability
Although the ADX is available with all-wheel drive, it isn’t designed for serious off-roading due to its limited ground clearance (7.3 inches) and restricted underbody protection. The ADX can handle unpaved roads, but should not be expected to perform in more challenging off-road environments.
Fuel Economy
Compared to competitors, the Acura ADX offers decent fuel economy figures, but it is less efficient than the Lexus UX Hybrid.
EPA fuel economy (city): 26 mpg (AWD 25 mpg) EPA fuel economy (highway): 31 mpg (AWD 30 mpg) EPA fuel economy (combined): 28 mpg (AWD 27 mpg)
It is worth noting that Acura recommends premium fuel, impacting the cost of ownership.
Interior and Technology
The interior of the ADX is similar to the Integra, with a modern, tech-focused design. The instrument panel includes a 10.2-inch digital display.
Base models get synthetic leather seating, while A-Spec models feature Ultrasuede accents. The A-Spec Advance adds leather upholstery with suede inserts.
All models come standard with a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch infotainment screen. The A-Spec Advance offers Google Built-In software. Acura has integrated a Bang & Olufsen audio system, featuring 15 speakers, in place of the ELS audio systems. The ADX keeps physical buttons and dials for climate controls.
Cargo Capacity
With rear seats up, the ADX provides 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space; folding the rear seats expands it to 55.1 cubic feet. The ADX’s cargo capacity is comparable with the Acura Integra and rivals competitors like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.
Driver Assistance and Safety
The Acura ADX comes standard with a range of driver-assistance features, including:
- Forward collision warning
- Lane-departure warning
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keep assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Cross-traffic monitor
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Hill-start assist
Available features include a surround-view camera system and parking sensors.
Acura ADX vs. Acura RDX
The ADX and RDX share similar dimensions, but the RDX is more powerful. The RDX also features Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. Yet, the ADX offers touch-screen infotainment whereas the RDX still uses a touchpad.
Competition
The Acura ADX will compete with the BMW X1, Volvo XC40, and the Mazda CX-30. It also goes up against the Mini Cooper Countryman.
Conclusion
The 2025 Acura ADX is positioned to be a significant vehicle for the brand, especially as an entry-level SUV. This new model has the potential to become a popular model in the luxury automaker’s lineup, adding a sporty offering to Acura’s SUV lineup.
