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2028 Acura RDX Hybrid Preview.

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We have already seen a preview of the all-new redesigned Acura RDX a few months ago. As a prototype. These new images show just a little bit more. 

Of course, it does look more modern and cleaner than the current version. Which is now over 8 years old. The “current” Acura RDX has actually stopped being produced a couple of months ago. There are probably still plenty of them at dealer lots to last until the new one comes out…

The new design is pretty nice but also quite generic. I guess this is a new face for Acura. But it could also be a Buick. Or almost anything from a number of other brands.

The next-generation RDX will probably share its platform with the Honda Hybrid Sedan prototype. Whatever that design becomes. A new Accord or a new Civic… This will obviously help Honda save costs at a time when the company really needs to save some cash after spending billions on EVs they won’t even produce.

Honda is also expected to replace the current Pilot later with a new hybrid model using a larger platform. That platform will also be used for a next-generation Acura MDX. That SUV will apparently use a V6-based hybrid system, while the RDX and the new sedan will continue with a 4-cylinder setup.

 Last November, Honda already mentioned that the new Hybrid system would use an updated 2.0 Liter engine with a new cooling system. With a more compact direct-drive motor and generator motor. The new drive unit will also not use any rare-earth materials. There is also a new battery that will be shared between the new Civic Hybrid and larger mid-sized models, like the next Accord and the new Acura RDX pictured above.

At the time, Honda was mentioning an early 2027 US launch for the new System. Which means the Civic will get it first. Unless the RDX comes out before.

Honda also claims a 10% MPG improvement. Which might not sound dramatic for the Accord or Civic since they’re already available as hybrids. But it could completely transform the RDX. The current model is not exactly known for its inspiring fuel economy. Averaging around 18 MPG in the city and about 25 MPG on the highway in real world driving. A modern hybrid setup could improve those numbers significantly and make the RDX much more competitive.

Still, a regular hybrid SUV does not sound especially ambitious. There are no plans for a PHEV or EREV model, and obviously, no new EVs for the U.S.

At this point, Honda and Acura seem fully committed to betting billions on traditional hybrids and hoping consumer tastes remain exactly where they are today for many years to come. 

Good luck…

Conversation 19 comments

  1. The fact that Honda got an EV almost to the manufacturing stage and can’t figure out an EREV (since they’re primarily an engine company AND they already have a similar format for their hybrids – which run as EVs with a generator except at highway speeds…) I find just flabbergasting. That’s what that RSX should have become. But this RDX I think is going to fail, based on looks and throwing the standard CRV treatment on an Acura.

  2. Sorry we have a 2024 RDX A Spec and Love the performance and looks, the pictures of the front look like a prolapse

  3. If this is going to be the design language of the upcoming RDX and possibly the MDX, I’ll line up for a Lexus instead. May as well have brought back the silver beak design from years past. Ugly!

  4. I’m very happy with my 2020 RDX and would love to get a new model. But this looks like Acura design regression. That front design in particular is just really haphazard and frumpy. I’m sad to say that I can’t see myself owning something that is that ugly. How are execs in Honda looking at that and saying, “Yeah, we like that”? But again, they said the same during Acura’s hideous “beak” era. Looks like a new regrettable design era is starting.

  5. We have had 5 RDX’s in a row since 2015.
    From those pictures, the one we have now will be the last one.

  6. RIP RDX, been leasing them for years and we’re ready for the RSX. This looks like a fancy CRV. Sad state of affairs and I don’t think we will be Acura customers anymore. It’s too bad.

  7. It seems there is a lot of hate for this new design. It will be interesting to see how it actually does when it comes out.
    To Andrew: You shouldn’t wait for the RSX as it has been canced just a few months ago.

  8. Our 2019 RDX Advanced has been the most comfortable car we ever had as well as super enjoyable to own. Much better than our 2010 Lexus RX. It is black with extra chrome added and to this day I still get compliments on how great it looks. I have consistently got slightly over 25 MPG since new. If this truly is the new design then I guess I will be looking elsewhere as well. These early design looks always seem to be not what actually is the real look. Let’s hope that is the case!

  9. Design is cheap and ugly. I abandoned my 2007 MDX for 2013 RDX for its design and attraction. Then comes my beautiful red strong and smooth driving 2020 RDX-SHR. The way Honda is going with RDX, the 2020 may be my last Acura.

  10. I like it. The first modern RDX. The prior one has looked dated and long in the tooth for years now.

  14. Mid 6’s 0-60 for the current RDX just isn’t enough for me at least. That pic make it look very clean but the tires are small looking. Was hoping for the RDX to me a smaller version of the MDX looks and power wise.

  15. Cheap-looking, generic, and disproportionate front ends never age well. Ask Hyundai and their redesigned every 2 years approach.

  16. That face is going to write its own jokes (Acura upcharge for pre-crashed cars)

  17. I agree with most comments here, I have a 2025 Acura Rdx. Glad I ourchased mine before the redesign. The front is just not doing it much justice. So many hybrids out there have better looking fronts ends than this.

  18. Acuras used to look more expensive than Hondas. Now, they’re also a lot less reliable. I’ll go elsewhere for my next ride.

  19. I hope the MDX gets a bit larger and if handling and performance are still good. i am in

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