2021 Acura RDX Type S Confirmed and Big No for the Hybrid Model

The approaching 2021 Acura RDX Type S is official. RDX is a small and luxury crossover that will get numerous refreshments. Besides the changes on the base model, Acura will introduce a sporty Type S variant. This will surely excite many fans, and it will additionally boost sales.

However, those who are waiting for a hybrid version will be disappointed. Acura has no plans to introduce a hybrid powertrain at the moment. That leaves us with the RDX Type S model that will look perfect. On top of that, it will present better performances, and it will be more premium than the base model.

2021 Acura RDX Type S exterior 2

The Concept

Acura is known for its performance-oriented models. The most famous is, of course, the “A-Spec” version. However, the 2021 Acura RDX Type S is something new. Everything started with the Precision concept. The idea was to set a new direction for the company and deliver something fresh. The outcome is the “Type S’ variant that comes with extreme sportiness.

Unlike the concept, a real-world model is more believable. Acura already confirmed that the next-gen TLX would get a Type-S variant. On top of that, Acura’s representatives said that there would be at least two more models. The most likely candidates are RDX and possibly MDX crossovers.

2021 Acura RDX Type S Concept

2021 RDX Type S Details

Acura’s concepts are often transformed into production vehicles. The 2021 Acura RDX Type S will be no different. The idea of the Type S is showing us a unique daytime running lights and taillights. All of the exterior features are larger than on the base model. Moreover, the interior offers a longer dashboard and more premium details. RDX Type S will arrive with a wider stance and new three-dimensional headlights. Aerodynamics are perfect, but some of the parts will largely remain.

On the other hand, we expect a unique grille with diamond mesh and exclusive “Type S” badges. Another goal is to deliver a cleaner design with plenty of carbon trims. Finally, the piano black exterior color will be in the offer. Of course, sedan and SUV models will depart from each other. But the ultimate goal is the same.

2021 Acura RDX Type S logo

A-Spec vs. Type S

At the moment, Acura is offering a sporty A-Spec trim level. It is a sporty variant, just like the Type S. However, the two versions will have a lot of differences. The 2021 Acura RDX Type S is the perfect example of that. A-Spec trim is available with blacked-out exterior and additional aggressiveness. It comes with unique wheels and tires. However, it doesn’t offer any type of performance upgrades. That will change shortly.

On the other hand, the RDX Type S will be a more exterior-wise model. Acura plans to make Type S even better-looking than the current A-Spec. On top of that, the interior will get exclusive trims, materials and color schemes. Still, the focus is on the exterior design. Don’t get us wrong here, A-Spec is doing great on the markets. However, Type S will be better, at least in terms of exterior design.

Performance

As the performance division of Honda, Acura offers genuinely tremendous and powerful engines. The forthcoming 2021 Acura RDX Type S will most likely ride on a twin-turbo V6 engine. It is a 3.5-liter engine that is used on the Acura’s range-topping models. Furthermore, the company is promising some mechanical upgrades. Still, Acura didn’t specify what will be improved. Handling, power, brakes?

No one knows that at the moment. We have no doubts. It will be a potent vehicle with excellent ride quality and a sporty vibe. As for the hybrid powertrain, that will not happen. Acura has no plans at the moment to introduce a plug-in or even an electric version. In the future, this could become a reality, but for now, you can only dream about it.

2021 Acura RDX Type S Price and Release Date

This is a tricky part. The all-new 2021 Acura RDX Type S will surely cost $45,000 or above. Whatsoever, the base model starts at $38,000. Loading a couple of optional packages and features will cost you over $50,000, no doubt about it. The very first RDX Type S will go on sale at the end of 2020.

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