Acura has officially entered the subcompact luxury SUV segment with the 2025 Acura ADX, an all-new model that slots below the larger RDX. Though it shares its underpinnings with the Honda HR-V, Acura insists that the ADX is far more than just a dressed-up Honda. while still remaining the most affordable SUV in the Acura lineup, ADX With its turbocharged engine, sporty design cues, and premium interior materials, offers a more upscale experience and that too at a starting price of just $35,000.
But is the ADX simply a budget luxury SUV, or does it have the chops to take on segment heavyweights like the BMW X1 or Mercedes-AMG CLA35? Let’s take a look…
Design
The 2025 Acura ADX might be based on the Honda HR-V, but Acura has made sure to set it apart with a more sportier & premium look. The bold new grille, reshaped LED headlights and taillights, and a bodywork which is no less of sculpted bring it in line with Acura’s larger SUVs, like the RDX and MDX.
The mid-range A-Spec trim leans into its athletic side with gloss black exterior trim, Gun Metallic skid plates, and larger 19-inch wheels. A new Advance Package takes it a step further, adding Berlina Black wheels, a heated steering wheel, multi-view camera system, and Google built-in connectivity. While a Type S performance model is noticeably absent—at least for now—Acura has tuned the ADX to be more engaging than its Honda HR-V sibling.
Power & Efficiency
At the heart of the ADX is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a significant upgrade from the HR-V’s naturally aspirated unit. Producing 200 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, the ADX benefits from a sport-tuned CVT transmission with Step Shift technology, which simulates gear changes under acceleration.
Front-wheel drive comes standard, while all-wheel drive is available for an additional $2,000. Unlike Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system found on the RDX, the ADX employs a simpler AWD setup that can send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels when needed.
Though the ADX isn’t the fastest in its class, its extra power over the HR-V gives it a more confident and refined drive. Acura expects a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds—on par with competitors like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA35. However, a real-world performance test will determine how well it really stacks up.
Technology
Acura’s subcompact luxury SUV aims to deliver a more upscale experience than its Honda counterpart. The cabin has been upgraded with higher-quality materials, improved sound insulation, and an upscale layout. Every trim comes with a 10.2-inch digital instrument display, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker premium sound system in the Advance Package.
Interior
The interior is spacious enough for four adults, with dual-zone climate control, a power liftgate, and heated front seats as standard. Higher trims offer ventilated front seats, a flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, and customizable LED ambient lighting. However, while the cabin is a clear step up from the HR-V it’s based on, some elements like the infotainment screen, digital gauge cluster, and some dashboard trim closely resemble Honda’s interiors.
Pricing
Starting at $35,000 for the FWD base model, and the A-Spec trim starting at $38,000. 2025 Acura ADX is one of the most affordable luxury subcompact SUVs on the market.
The range-topping Advance Package version starts at $42,000, with an additional $2,000 upcharge for all-wheel drive (AWD). Add all the available options, and the price can rise to $56,195, still undercutting many German rivals.
Given that the BMW X1, Mercedes-AMG CLA35, and Volvo XC40 tend to cost more when similarly equipped, the ADX stands out as a solid value in the luxury compact SUV market.
Cargo
Acura ADX at 55.1 cubic ft, is not short of cargo space also.
Is the 2025 Acura ADX Worth It?
While the 2025 Acura ADX doesn’t deliver neck-snapping speed, it nails the balance between comfort, features, and everyday usability. Though it lacks a Type S performance model, the 200-hp turbocharged engine provides a noticeable improvement over the Honda HR-V’s underpowered base engine.
Its steering feel is more precise and engaging, and the new suspension tuning gives the ADX a compliant yet responsive ride. On winding roads, it is expected to remain composed, with minimal body roll and solid grip. Acura has also improved sound insulation, though some road and wind noise might still filters into the cabin.
Conclusion
The 2025 Acura ADX is more than just a luxury take on the Honda HR-V, With a starting price of $35,000—only $2,000 more than the 2025 Acura Integra—the ADX is more upscale in many ways and is one of the most affordable luxury crossovers in a segment that includes the BMW X1, Mercedes-AMG CLA35, and Volvo XC40. If Acura adds a hybrid option in the future, it could become an even more attractive alternative for eco-conscious buyers.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most accurate, latest updates or specific model configurations. Always consult official website/sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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