Video Review: 2025 ADX Compact SUV – Great Features, More Power Needed
The refined subcompact SUV was developed by the same team as Acura’s award-winning Integra compact sports sedan.
- This Acura model is a Subcompact Luxury SUV that shares basic engineering with Honda’s HR-V.
- To create a luxurious ride, you need more than just lovely paint and interior materials.
After living with them for a few days and as the models evolve, they share the impressions of the new vehicle.
This week’s car
2025 ACURA ADX A-Spec Advance
What is it?
This Acura model is a Subcompact Luxury SUV that shares basic engineering with Honda’s HR-V. The power comes from a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that develops 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. A variable automatic transmission is the standard on a continuous basis.
how much?
Prices start from $35,000. All prices exclude a $1,350 placement fee. Tested on the top line ADX A-Spec Advanced I TEST STICTERED 44,600.
How are you?
ADX participated in the Acura lineup this year. Until July, there were 6,593 sales.
When I first drove it, what I thought: Describing my day driving in California earlier this year, I wrote:
- ADX arrives with excellent qualifications using the same architecture and drivetrain as Acura’s award-winning Integra Compact Sport Sedan.
- ADX controls are easy to use and understand.
- The front seats are comfortable and have ample storage. The rear legroom is good, but the refined profile limits the rear headroom.
- ADX needs more power and better acceleration. Acura needs to address the issue if you want ADX to be the true stability of a fun and responsive Integra.
What does that compete with?
Audi Q3, BMW X2, Lexus NX, Mini Countryman, Mini Countryman, Volvo XC40.
What I like: My ADX interior was 1980s yachtlock light blue and trimmed in high-end leather with accent suede. A refreshing departure from the gorgeous interior of sad black and grey. The audio on the Bang & Olufsen 15 speakers sounds good at slow speeds, but engine, road and wind noise reduces its effect more quickly.
The exterior design is modest and comfortable. The small size of the ADX makes parking easier.
Even ADX’s recommended 91 octane petrol will not sneeze with AWD and 27 MPG in city/highway combined driving.
Maybe better: There’s nothing special about ADX performance, comfort or technology. It could come from a capable mainstream brand. ADX cannot justify premium prices or branding.
Additionally, the electronic start or key FOB malfunctioned during the week with ADX, and I had to press the start button on the FOB. It was an intermittent drawback – it was a word that occurred twice, sending words that would make the owner’s spines cold. Battery issues were eliminated as the FOB operated the fine operating lock and the power tailgate from afar.
I’m not sure: Whether Honda develops higher aspirations for luxury brands.
The ADX will be a great Hyundai or Nissan. Probably VW.
But to create a luxurious ride, you need more than just lovely paint and interior materials. ADX’s performance, technology and refinement, despite its lovely interior and easy-to-use controls, all fall short of the standards set by other premium and luxury brands.
Important numbers for ADX
- The base price is $35,000, excluding destination charges
- 5 seats 5
- Front or all-wheel drive
- 1.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, continuous fluctuation automatic transmission. 190 HP, 179 pound-feet of torque.
- Estimated fuel economy: 25 mpg city/30 expressway/27 union.
Please contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Please read more Auto And sign up for us Automotive Newsletter. Become a subscriber.
