Acura RDX Prototype Highlights Model to Launch in Canada

Acura unveiled the all-new RDX Prototype SUV at a North American International Auto Show press conference in Detroit. Combining sport utility functionality with sports sedan handling and performance, the RDX Prototype features an innovative turbocharged engine and Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)) system. This near-production prototype provides an advance preview of the all-new Acura RDX sport-utility vehicle that will go on sale this summer in Canada.  "RDX Prototype highlights the exciting direction of the next generation of Acura's light trucks," said Jim Miller, executive vice president, Honda Canada Inc. "It features leading-edge technology and exemplifies what we call 'intelligent performance': a sporty, luxurious and functional SUV that delivers outstanding performance while providing excellent fuel efficiency. RDX will be uniquely positioned in Canada's luxury SUV segment with an 'urban adventure' character."  RDX Prototype features an all-new 2.3-liter i-VTEC(R) four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 240 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. This is the first application of forced induction technology in Acura history. The revolutionary i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a variable flow turbocharger, which is exclusive to the RDX Prototype, and provides dramatic performance benefits while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. To complement the  all-aluminum high-performance engine, the RDX Prototype utilizes Acura's steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters to manually operate the 5-speed sequential SportShift(TM) automatic transmission.  Acura's Super Handling-AWD system is tuned specifically for the RDX Prototype platform. Like the RL, sophisticated electronic controls automatically distribute torque fore and aft, as well as splitting the rear torque left to right. The result is dramatically enhanced handling, traction and stability during sporty driving as well as in inclement weather. A sophisticated chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension complement the SH-AWD system. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) combines with large disc brakes and ABS to enhance vehicle control.  The RDX Prototype is built on an all-new global light truck platform. Reflecting Acura's commitment to safety through innovation, RDX Prototype is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure and additional state-of-the-art safety features. ACE uses an innovative unit body structure that helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area and direct them away from the passenger compartment for enhanced occupant protection. Front, side and side curtain airbags, in addition to rollover sensors, add an extra measure of safety.  The chiseled exterior styling combines with a generous interior to provide excellent visibility for driving in a variety of conditions, such as city traffic or on tight, twisty roads. RDX Prototype features a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, sporty wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to an aggressive Acura signature five-sided grill. Custom 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX Prototype an aggressive stance. Dual exhaust tips, HID headlights, and a rear spoiler add to the sporty appearance of the vehicle.  Inside, the RDX Prototype combines richly appointed materials with a sporty, driver-oriented cockpit. The centre console features an innovative storage system that allows for hidden and lockable storage of a briefcase or laptop computer. The prototype's interior has an assortment of leading-edge technologies, such as the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) and HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface. A premium Acura/ELS(TM) DVD-Audio system is tuned to deliver rich surround sound to the cabin.  The RDX Prototype offers comfortable seating for five adults and a versatile rear cargo hatch allows for easy load-in and storage. The second row seats split and fold flat into the floor, providing ample cargo space for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.  The Acura RDX will be assembled at Honda of America Manufacturing in Marysville, Ohio, and is scheduled to go on sale in Canada this summer. Pricing has not yet been determined.  

ACURA RDX PROTOTYPE HIGHLIGHTS

------------------------------   - 2.3-LITRE 4-cylinder i-VTEC turbocharged engine generates

240 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque

- First application of forced induction technology in an Acura

product

- Acura-exclusive i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a unique

variable-flow turbocharger

- 5-speed automatic transmission with sequential Sportshift(TM) and

steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters  - Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM))  - Fully independent front and rear suspension  - 19-inch custom alloy wheels  - All-new global light-truck platform equipped with Advanced

Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure for enhanced

collision safety  - Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R))  - Standard front, side and side curtain airbags, plus roll-over sensors  - Sport seats with perforated leather-trimmed interior  - Unique lockable centre storage unit can fit a laptop computer bag or

briefcase  - 60/40 split rear fold-flat seats  - Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) and

HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface  - Premium Acura/ELS(TM) DVD-Audio surround sound system  - Dual exhaust  - Rear spoiler  - High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights     /NOTE TO PHOTO EDITORS: A photo accompanying this release is available on  the CNW Photo Network and archived at http://photos.newswire.ca.  Additional archived images are also available on the CNW Photo Archive  website at http://photos.newswire.ca. Images are free to accredited  members of the media/ 

  For further information: Sandy Di Felice, (416) 453-6505; Richard  Jacobs, (416) 543-6593; Archived images on this organization are searchable through CNW Photo Archive  website at http://photos.newswire.ca. Images are free to accredited members of  the media.

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