I’ll be honest: when I first heard about the 2025 Acura ADX, my excitement level hovered somewhere between indifferent and mildly curious. After all, it’s built on the same platform as the Integra sedan and adopts that small SUV crossover vibe reminiscent of the Honda HR-V. Honestly, I found myself thinking, “Another compact crossover?” With so many players already flooding the market, how could this model actually be anything to get jazzed about?
But then I got behind the wheel, and my preconceived notions quickly changed. The 2025 Acura ADX isn’t just another middle-of-the-road option; it’s a gem that leaves a lasting impression. Sure, it’s not dripping in luxury, but for a crossover that’s about a $5,000 break from competitors like the Lexus NX, it packs quite the punch.
One look at its dimensions and you’ll notice that, despite its unpretentious design, the ADX is surprisingly spacious. It’s nearly the same length as the Integra at 185.8 inches and only a couple of inches shorter than the larger Acura RDX. But it boasts a 104.5-inch wheelbase akin to the Honda HR-V, which typically means you’ll be encountering some serious legroom in this ride. During an early morning drive through Southern California’s misty roads, I was pleasantly surprised to see that it comfortably accommodates four adults. Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend with friends or tackling a loaded grocery run, the ADX has got your back, converting from a compact crossover to a practical family vehicle with the simple act of folding down its rear seats. The space expands from 24.4 to a commendable 55.1 cubic feet, easily fitting in whatever gear you throw at it.
Now, let’s talk performance. The heart of the ADX lies in its 190-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo-4 engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Some car enthusiasts might scoff at the CVT, but trust me on this: the ADX handles far better than rivals in its class. It’s no speed demon in terms of aggressive launches, but once you engage Sport mode, you’ll find that it kicks into gear nicely. When you need to make that critical merge onto the freeway or rev up for passing, the torque kicks in at about 1,700 rpm, and the vehicle responds dynamically. It’s not a sports car, but it gives you enough confidence for those everyday maneuvers.
But let’s get real—not everyone is seeking the same adrenaline rush as they would in a BMW M or an AMG vehicle. What the ADX delivers instead is a well-balanced experience, and I could imagine it being a solid contender for a sportier version. The Type S model has shown what Acura can do, and if you’re like me, you crave that connection between handling and comfort.
As I tackled the winding roads up Mount Palomar, the impressive handling of the ADX had me grinning from ear to ear. Its standard MacPherson strut and multilink rear suspension systems offer a surprisingly sporty enthusiasm that invites you to push its limits. With all-wheel drive sending torque to the rear wheels, it offered playful responsiveness, making those hairpin turns delightful rather than daunting. The vehicle feels more like a nimble compact car than a traditional crossover, which is refreshing.
At a weight of 3,514 pounds, it strikes a balance—in the realm of crossovers, that’s relatively light. With some enhancements to stabilizer bars and increased spring rates, it responds beautifully, and despite its height, it feels steady and reliable. One thing I appreciated was the steering; it provides a tactile connection that many vehicles in its class lack. You can really feel the road beneath you, and the responsiveness helps you navigate with confidence.
As I reached the summit where the vibrant sun peeked from behind the pine trees, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the ADX. It offers a value proposition that many competitors strive for yet fail to deliver. In a marketplace crowded with options, the 2025 Acura ADX stands out by being practical, fun, and surprisingly impressive. If you’re in the market for a compact SUV, consider taking this one for a spin. You might just find it exceeding your expectations too.The 2025 Acura ADX is sparking quite a bit of conversation, and it’s easy to see why. With its ability to blend comfort and performance, the ADX seems poised to be an appealing option for many drivers. One question on the minds of prospective buyers is whether this crossover will embrace hybrid technology or even a more high-performance Type S variation.
A hybrid version of the ADX could be a game changer, especially given that it could leverage Honda’s successful hybrid technologies already seen in their mainstream models. Imagine cruising in the ADX during your morning commute, enjoying a ride that feels effortlessly smooth—that’s what the Normal or Comfort modes are designed for. It’s quiet and relaxed, insulating you from the daily grind. On the other hand, switch to Sport mode, and you’ll know the vehicle is capable of more. Here, Active Sound Control revs up the excitement by piping in artificial engine sounds through the speakers, heightening the thrill of every turn. Yet, even in the Sport mode, there’s a lot of consideration put into comfort; low-frequency noise control gently manages everything around you, keeping road and wind noise largely at bay. The sound-deadening materials in the ADX work wonders, creating a serene cabin that gives off a true premium feel—something you’d often find in electric vehicles.
Looking upmarket, the concept of an ADX Type S could certainly pique interest. However, don’t expect to find the 6-speed manual transmission that enthusiasts are fond of in the Integra. The ADX is more of a value-oriented crossover, and this is reflected in its interior. Though there’s a 9.0-inch touchscreen boasting smartphone compatibility—great for the tech-savvy driver—some might find it underwhelming if they’re after that luxurious feel. The leather-trimmed upholstery is only available in the higher-end A-Spec Advance Package. It’s a design that prioritizes practicality over opulence, albeit with a refreshing new orchid interior accentuated by blue striping that injects a bit of personality into the space.
Yet, there are minor annoyances that can pull you out of the moment. For instance, I found myself frustrated when I needed to reconnect my Bluetooth every time I started the engine—definitely not ideal for those of us who are always on the go. Additionally, the adaptive cruise control system requires a firm press to adjust the distance meter, a small but noticeable quirk that unfortunately detracts from an otherwise enjoyable driving experience.
Despite these little hiccups, there’s something undeniably enticing about the potential for an ADX Type S. The chief engineer of the ADX, Nobuyuki Kawaguchi, remains tight-lipped on the subject, though he does express excitement for how drivers will respond to the standard ADX with its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. “We look forward to seeing what the reaction will be with the ADX and 1.5-liter turbo-4,” he said with a grin, and you can sense his optimism.
Of course, it’s essential to take note of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into these reviews. Many people might not know that Motor Authority was treated to accommodations and even a local culinary delight—a Julian pie—curated by Acura for this first drive review. It goes to show the lengths companies will go to ensure their products are tested and presented in a way that resonates with the automotive community.
In summary, whether the ADX finds its way into the hybrid market or expands into a higher-powered Type S version remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the 2025 Acura ADX is built with the modern driver in mind, mixing functionality, comfort, and just a bit of flair for a truly engaging experience on the road.
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