2025 Acura ADX A-Spec Review: Is This Small Luxury SUV Worth It?

Introducing the 2025 Acura ADX

• 🚀 The 2025 Acura ADX is Acura's newest and smallest crossover SUV, built on the Integra chassis.
• 🎯 It aims to fill a gap for those seeking a sporty, small-size luxury crossover without the larger footprint of the RDX.

Exterior Design and Features

• ✨ The ADX features Acura's signature chicane daytime running lamps and a precision crafted performance grille.
• 💎 Notable design elements include LED fog lamps, a shark gray V-spoke 19-inch wheel on the A-Spec trim, and gloss black fender openings.
• ⚠️ A potential design critique is the visible exhaust finisher, which some might prefer to be hidden for a cleaner look.

Powertrain and Performance

• ⚙️ Under the hood, the ADX uses the familiar 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 engine from the Integra, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.
• 💨 It is paired with a CVT transmission, achieving 0-60 mph in 8 seconds, with an estimated fuel economy of 25 MPG city / 30 MPG highway.
• 🏎️ While the handling is praised for its precise movement and button-down feel, the acceleration is described as somewhat sluggish for its sporty appearance.

Interior Comfort and Technology

• 🛋️ The A-Spec interior boasts soft-touch materials, red contrast stitching, Alcantara accents, and a dark aluminum trim.
• 🔊 It includes a 9-speaker stereo system, a 9-inch floating infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a panoramic sunroof.
• ⚡ Comfort features include three stages of heated and ventilated seats, dual climate control, and a digital gauge cluster.

Practicality and Space

• 📦 The cargo area offers 23 cubic feet of space with the seats up, expanding to 54 cubic feet when folded down.
• 📏 Despite being a smaller crossover, the cabin provides good headroom and overall dimensions for front passengers, though rear legroom can feel a bit high-kneed.
• 🛠️ Practicality is supported by AC vents and USB-C ports in the rear, though a spare tire is replaced by a flat-fix kit and compressor.

Driving Experience and Verdict

• 🌟 The driving experience is characterized by excellent ride quality, good sound deadening, and rigid chassis, making it feel like a true Acura.
• 🚦 Drive modes (including Sport) and metal paddle shifters enhance engagement, though the CVT limits the feeling of raw power.
• 🤔 The ADX is positioned as a solid choice for those who want an Acura SUV experience in a smaller, more accessible package than the RDX, offering sporty styling and a refined interior, but lacking outright acceleration.