Posted on March 13, 2025 | By Kelley Blue Book, Automotive Expert & Reviewer

The 2025 Acura ADX has finally arrived, and it’s filling a gap in Acura’s lineup that’s been begging for attention: a subcompact luxury SUV that’s both affordable and refined. As an automotive reviewer with years of experience behind the wheel, I recently took the ADX for a spin, and I’m here to break down everything you need to know—pros, cons, and all. Is this the premium crossover you’ve been waiting for? Let’s dive in.

First Impressions: Why the ADX Matters

Acura’s new ADX slots into the subcompact category, a segment where it’s only two inches shorter than its bigger sibling, the RDX. Think of it as a souped-up Honda HR-V with a premium twist—a smart move for Acura to capture buyers craving luxury without the hefty price tag. Unlike the yo-yo trends of EVs and hybrids, the ADX sticks to gas power, offering a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. With 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque kicking in at a low 1,700 RPM, it’s peppy and energetic, even in the heaviest trim I tested. No lack of power here—this engine, borrowed from the Integra, feels just right for the ADX’s size.

Driving Dynamics: Fun Meets Sophistication

Behind the wheel, the ADX strikes a balance between fun and refinement. The steering, especially in Sport mode, has a satisfying weight that makes canyon carving a joy. The brakes? Confident and responsive, though they might hint at fade after aggressive driving—nothing unexpected for this segment. Acura offers Comfort, Normal, Sport, and (on the top-tier A-Spec with Advanced Package) an Individual mode. These settings aren’t just gimmicks; Comfort is commute-friendly, while Sport sharpens throttle response and steering feel noticeably.

The optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system isn’t Acura’s famed Super Handling AWD, but it’s solid, sending up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels. It’s more about tackling snow or rain than performance thrills—perfectly adequate for a subcompact luxury SUV.

The CVT Conundrum

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Paired with the turbo engine, it’s the same unit from the Integra, and I’ll be honest—it’s not my favorite. Under heavy acceleration, it’s loud, almost like a hairdryer on high. There’s also a slight hesitation in power delivery that feels unrefined. That said, metal paddle shifters let you mimic gear shifts for extra torque around turns, and once the CVT settles, it quiets down. Pro tip: On the A-Spec with Advanced Package, switch to Individual mode, set engine noise to Comfort, and keep everything else sporty—the drone disappears, making it a more pleasant ride.

Inside the Cabin: Luxury Meets Practicality

Step inside, and the ADX impresses with a feature-rich interior. Standard across all trims are a 9-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The A-Spec with Advanced Package adds Google Built-In for seamless tech integration. Heated front seats are standard, and the top trim throws in ventilation and a panoramic moonroof.

The Orchid upholstery with blue inserts is a standout—stunning, baseball-stitched, and comfy enough to rival seats I’ve seen in an Aston Martin. Cargo space shines at 55.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat, and there’s ample legroom in the back, even for taller passengers. However, not everything’s perfect. The touchscreen and buttons feel a tad cheap, almost tacked-on, betraying some cost-cutting Honda roots. Still, the premium touches—like metal paddle shifters and stylish vent grates—outweigh these minor gripes for an entry-level luxury SUV.

Safety: Acura Watch Delivers Peace of Mind

Acura doesn’t skimp on safety. The standard AcuraWatch suite includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation, and adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow. Unlike pricier rivals like BMW or Mercedes-Benz, these features don’t cost extra here. The system is smooth, too—no ping-ponging between lanes, and it handles turns gracefully. It’s not hands-free autonomous tech, so stay alert, but it’s a robust package for the price.

Fuel Economy: Respectable, Not Revolutionary

The ADX’s fuel economy is competitive for a gas-powered subcompact SUV, hovering around what you’d expect in this class. Opting for AWD doesn’t tank efficiency much, which is a win for buyers in snowy climates. It’s not a hybrid, so if you’re chasing max MPG, look elsewhere—but for a turbocharged luxury crossover, it holds its own.

Pricing and Trims: Value Meets Variety

The 2025 Acura ADX comes in three trims:

• Base ADX (FWD): $36,250
• ADX A-Spec: $39,350
• ADX A-Spec with Advanced Package: $45,600
  Add $2,000 for AWD across the board.

Even the base model packs a punch with standard tech and safety features. Climbing to the A-Spec adds leather-trimmed seats, a Bang & Olufsen stereo (perfect for drowning out that CVT drone), and sporty styling. The Advanced Package brings luxuries like rain-sensing wipers, ventilated seats, and that handy Individual mode. At $36,250 to start, it undercuts competitors like the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Lexus UX, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and Volvo XC40—only the Buick Encore GX comes close on price, but it lacks the ADX’s premium pedigree.

The Verdict: Is the 2025 Acura ADX Worth It?

The 2025 Acura ADX is a long-overdue contender in the subcompact luxury SUV space, blending peppy performance, a tech-loaded cabin, and sharp pricing into a compelling package. It’s not perfect—the CVT’s noise and occasional hesitation might irk enthusiasts, and some interior plastics feel budget-friendly. But with a starting price under $37,000, generous cargo space, and Acura’s reputation for reliability, it’s a standout option for buyers seeking value without sacrificing sophistication.

If you’re in the market for a gas-powered premium crossover that’s fun to drive and easy on the wallet, the ADX delivers. Need more power or hybrid efficiency? The RDX or a rival might be your pick. For everyone else, this little SUV proves big luxury can come in a small package.

Ready to buy? Check Kelley Blue Book for a fair price on the ADX or compare it to rivals like the BMW X1 or Volvo XC40. What do you think—does the ADX hit the mark? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!