The new ADX will slot in below the RDX, MDX, and electric ZDX in Acura’s SUV lineup
Acura today confirmed they’ll be adding a new SUV to their model lineup in early 2025, a small crossover called the ADX. Acura wants the ADX to be a “gateway to the Acura brand for young premium buyers”, meaning we can expect an affordable price point. Think chunky Integra more so than downsized MDX. Acura also confirmed that the ADX will not be an electrified model but rather will be powered by a turbocharged engine.
Further details are scarce, but logic will suggest that the ADX will likely be based on the Honda HR-V. That crossover is only available with a NA 2.0, but it’s based on the Civic platform which in Si trim is powered by the same 1.5L turbo that Acura seem poised to put in the ADX.
The ADX is set to debut in early 2025.
Commentary
With so few details currently available, I hesitate to speculate as to the value or purpose of a new ADX. The crossover craze clearly motivated Acura to make this addition, but resisted another trend by not electrifying the ADX. Pretty much the only detail they’ve given away so far is that the ADX will be turbocharged, a point which perhaps they might not have made so clearly if not for the much-reported-upon major reduction in demand for EVs in the past few months. That suggests a focus on simplicity and driving dynamics rather than on futurism and eco-consciousness will be the ADX’s philosophy. That philosophy will need to be strengthened and elaborated upon for the finished product, given the crowded crossover battle into which it will be thrust.
Acura are not alone in targeting “young premium buyers”, as their press release says. The crossover trend is driven to a large extent by that demographic, and they’re spoiled for choice. Perhaps Acura sees a need for an affordable luxury crossover, but they haven’t quite hit that mark with the Integra, which justifies its existence with a sporting character rather than premium feel. The ADX likely (though I’d love to be surprised!) will not be able to rely on driving dynamics to the same extent, and will therefore need to reach another level of refinement to find its niche. Brands like Acura are always walking a tightrope between luxury, driving dynamics, and affordability. In a crowded segment like small crossovers, the ADX will need to strike a particularly good balance.