2026 Acura ADX: A Winning Formula

Acura is a brand renowned for its legendary reliability and the sporty character of its vehicles. However, what was sorely missing from the Japanese automaker's lineup was a smaller and more affordable SUV, which Acura is finally offering with the ADX.

Unsurprisingly, the Japanese automaker's new luxury SUV is essentially based on the same platform as the Honda HR-V, but it is important to understand that this is far from being a simple rebadged vehicle. The ADX is different in many ways. More luxurious, more agile, and more powerful, it clearly stands as a premium model in its own right. It is perfectly suited to Canadian realities, and it couldn't have arrived on the market at a better time.

Lineup and Pricing

The 2026 Acura ADX lineup consists of three different versions, starting with the standard ADX, which carries a starting price of $50,188. It comes with a comprehensive list of standard features, including a sunroof, a power tailgate with programmable height, and much more. Next up is the A-SPEC, with a starting price of $52,188. Here, you get a sportier look and more exterior colour options. Ventilated seats and several other features are also added to the package. Finally, the Platinum Elite A-SPEC sits at the top of the lineup with a starting price of $56,688. To be honest, considering the relatively small price difference, the A-SPEC versions are significantly more appealing.

Category and Competition

What I particularly like about the ADX compared with its closest competitors is that it takes a smart, no-frills approach and focuses on tangible qualities. It is an affordable, capable, and versatile small luxury vehicle.

Competitors: Audi Q3, BMW X1, BMW X2, Buick Encore GX, Lexus UX, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Mercedes-Benz GLB, Mini Countryman, Volvo XC40

Design and Technology

The 2026 ADX proudly displays Acura's signature design language, and that is something you notice at first glance. Unless you already know, it is virtually impossible to tell that the model shares its platform with the Honda HR-V. The ADX has a strong personality that combines elegance and sportiness.

The interior presentation is modern and clean, with a certain touch of character. Once again, you can tell you are sitting inside a premium vehicle. The Japanese automaker's SUV is spacious and comfortable, and it offers impressive sound insulation. On the technology front, the model features a 10.2-inch digital instrument display, while its infotainment system comes with Google built-in.

Performance

Unlike the HR-V, which is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower, the ADX benefits from a slightly more spirited powertrain. It uses a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a CVT, while all-wheel drive comes standard. The Japanese automaker's small SUV has a fuel consumption rating of 9.1 L/100 km in the city and 7.7 L/100 km on the highway.

Weak Points

There is only one powertrain option.

Strong Points

It ranks among the most reliable and least expensive models to maintain in its category. It is enjoyable to drive.

Signature Element

The Acura ADX stands out from the crowd thanks to its styling, balance, and legendary reliability.

Final Word

The ADX plays a particularly important role at Acura, as it allows the brand to expand its lineup and reach customers whose needs and budgets might never have allowed them to consider the brand otherwise. The Japanese automaker's small SUV is a logical and sensible choice. The only thing it is missing is a Type S version.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier