2025 Acura ADX Plus Review: Budget-Friendly Driver Engagement

Introduction

The 2025 Acura ADX emerges as a strategic entrant in the increasingly crowded compact crossover segment, blending Honda’s proven engineering with Acura’s premium aspirations. Priced from $35,000, the ADX undercuts many rivals while offering a surprisingly engaging driving experience. Built on the same global compact platform that underpins the Honda Civic and Acura Integra, this Mexico-assembled crossover demonstrates how economies of scale can deliver both value and character.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the ADX’s front fascia reflects Acura’s latest “Diamond Pentagon” grille, framed by Jewel Eye® LED headlamps and sculpted hood creases that direct airflow toward an aluminum-reinforced front bumper. Measuring 174.8 inches in length with a 105.1-inch wheelbase, overall body rigidity is boosted by high-strength steel in critical pillars and underbody braces.

• Urban Gray Pearl and Curva Red paints incorporate a proprietary three-stage layering process for scratch resistance.
• Optional 19-inch machined-finish wheels with adaptive dampers come standard on the A-Spec with Advance trim.
• Wind tunnel testing yields a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.30, competitive among peers.

Powertrain and Performance Analysis

Under the hood sits Honda’s refined 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four, part of the Earth Dreams Technology family. It delivers 190 hp (142 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 179 lb-ft (243 Nm) of torque from 1,700 to 4,500 rpm. Torque peaks early but tapers above 4,500 rpm, requiring a brief turbo spool to access full power near redline (6,500 rpm).

Transmission Calibration and Shift Logic

The ADX’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) features Acura’s performance-tuned programming, simulating a 10-speed gearbox with pre-set shift points and steering-wheel paddle control. Real-time load and throttle position data refine the virtual gear logic:

1. Launch Logic: Holds lower ratios for aggressive initial acceleration.
2. Torque Management: Smooth torque delivery across gear transitions.
3. Sport Mode: Faster ratio jumps, sharper throttle mapping, and firmer paddle response.

“The ADX’s CVT calibration is among the best I’ve tested; it strikes a balance between smoothness and responsiveness,” says John Riley, Senior Powertrain Engineer at Torque Dynamics Inc.

Dynamics and Handling

Built on a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension with a fully independent setup, the ADX corners flat with minimal body roll. The optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system uses an electronically controlled clutch pack at the rear, capable of distributing up to 50% of torque rearward when slip is detected.

• Steering: 2.4 turns lock-to-lock, quick-ratio rack with electric power assist.
• Dampers: Twin-valve hydraulic struts tuned for intermediate compliance.
• Drive Modes: Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Snow—each adjusts throttle map, steering weight, and CVT shift logic.

On variable-rate springs and optional 235/45R19 all-season tires, the ADX balances ride quality with adequate grip, even under aggressive cornering. The chassis’ rigidity improvements over the HR-V sibling manifest in sharper turn-in, while mid-corner disturbances are absorbed effectively.

Interior Technology and Connectivity

Step inside to find Acura’s latest dual-screen infotainment suite, running a QNX-based OS. The upper 10.2-inch HD display shows navigation and ADAS status, while the lower 9-inch touchscreen handles media, climate, and settings.

• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration.
• ELS Studio 3D® premium audio with 16 speakers and 710-watt amplifier (Advance trim).
• Over-The-Air (OTA) update capability for future infotainment and CVT calibration tweaks.
• Physical climate knobs and capacitive touch sliders for fan speed.

“Although Acura recently announced phasing out legacy connected-car services for older models, the ADX’s OTA framework secures future enhancements,” notes Sarah Chen, Senior Analyst at AutoTech Insights.

Safety and Driver Assistance Deep Dive

The ADX comes standard with AcuraWatch™ 360, featuring:

• Forward Collision Warning with low-speed AEB (autonomous emergency braking).
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow (ACC w/ LSF).
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) using dual cameras and lane-tracking sensors.
• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) and automated high-beam control.

The updated millimeter-wave radar and forward stereo camera modules reduce false-positive alerts by 20% over the previous year’s lineup. Optional Blind-Spot Information and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert provide 80° coverage behind each side.

Cargo and Practicality

With rear seats upright, the ADX offers 24.8 cu ft (702 L) of cargo volume. Folding the 60/40 split-folding seats expands capacity to:

• 53.9 cu ft (1,526 L) on A-Spec with Advance.
• 55.1 cu ft (1,560 L) on standard trims.

Rear legroom measures 33.7 inches, matching segment leaders. Useful touches include under-floor storage bins, a hands-free power tailgate, and dual USB-C ports in both rows.

Market Comparison and Latest Updates

At or near the $40,000 mark, the ADX competes with the Mazda CX-30, BMW X1, Hyundai Tucson, and Volkswagen Tiguan. While the CX-30 remains the benchmark for driver engagement, the ADX offers a more premium badge and better standard equipment at a similar price point. Compared to the xDrive28i X1, the ADX is nearly $5,500 less while matching many luxury features.

Latest industry news underscores Acura’s commitment to electrification: two additional EV models are slated before 2026, with an electric ADX variant rumored to arrive by 2027, leveraging Honda’s e:Architecture platform. However, buyers should note the impending shutdown of certain cloud-based telematics for pre-2025 models, although the ADX’s OTA-capable system remains unaffected.

Conclusion

The 2025 Acura ADX delivers an impressive package: sharp styling, refined powertrain, keen chassis dynamics, and a richly equipped cabin—all at a competitive entry price. It may not outpace the BMW X1 in outright acceleration or match the Mazda CX-30’s pure driving feel, but it strikes a well-judged balance between budget and engagement. For buyers seeking a premium-quality compact crossover without the steep luxury premium, the ADX is a compelling choice.