TORONTO, Canada, February 14, 2007 – Acura’s all-new RDX Technology Package, a luxury-performance crossover utility vehicle (CUV), was voted “Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year” by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).

“With Acura RDX being voted the Canadian Utility of the Year, Canadian consumers can rely on AJAC’s third-party evaluation when selecting a luxury crossover utility vehicle,” said Jim Miller, executive vice president, Honda Canada Inc.  

The all-new 2007 Acura RDX Technology Package combines Acura’s first-ever turbocharged engine with the patented Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system.  RDX is designed to keep Acura ahead with advanced technology to provide the best in responsiveness, control and efficiency.  By adding an innovative variable flow turbocharger – an exceptionally broad powerband with 240 horsepower – virtually no turbo lag is produced while achieving outstanding fuel efficiency with low emissions.

Acura RDX is a stylish vehicle that offers a higher “eye-point” (driving position) and more cargo flexibility than a sedan.  It is designed for customers who want SUV functionality with the handling and performance of a luxury sports sedan. The transformable utility of the RDX, along with its engaging performance and handling, provides an ideal balance.

RDX features the SH-AWD™ system to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness.  SH-AWD™ is Acura’s patented all-wheel drive system that distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels.  The system helps reduce understeer to enhance steering accuracy.

The RDX exterior styling further emphasizes its sporty athleticism.  A unique rear hatch, finished with a replaceable panel to reduce the cost of accident repair, allows the rear of the body to smoothly transition to the rear bumper.  This permits a more custom look and also eases loading and unloading of cargo.

The RDX Technology Package heightens the RDX’s appeal to technology-savvy customers with a range of advanced features.  The centerpiece is a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround™ Premium Sound System.  When playing DVD-Audio (DVD-A) discs, this advanced 410-watt system delivers eight discreet audio channels (instead of the usual two) to create a dynamic listening experience.  Also included is HandsFreeLink™ that works with many Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and Acura’s Satellite Navigation System with Bi-lingual Voice Recognition™.  

Technological leadership also extends to safety engineering with Acura’s “Safety Through Innovation” initiatives.  The RDX’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure substantially contributes to occupant safety.  ACE™ distributes collision loads through the body structure, leaving the passenger cabin more intact for improved occupant protection.  

Inside, the RDX provides a full complement of standard passive safety features.  Key technologies include active front seat head restraints and the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger, and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants.  

The 2007 AJAC Car and Truck of the Year competition was conducted in October near Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.  More than 70 AJAC members from across Canada were involved in three days of back-to-back test evaluations of 65 individual products in 13 separate categories.  The RDX initially won the “Best New CUV Between $35,000 and $60,000” category in order to be voted on for the overall Canadian Utility of the Year.

Acura is the technology advanced performance division of Honda Canada Inc.  Five vehicles are marketed under the Acura brand, including the exclusive-to-Canada Acura CSX luxury compact sedan, RL, MDX, TL and TSX.  Both the CSX and the new Acura MDX luxury sport-utility vehicle are produced at the Honda of Canada Mfg. facility in Alliston, Ontario.