The newly refreshed and hot-selling Acura RDX crossover just made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show, featuring both performance as well as styling upgrades.

The 2016 Acura RDX will be available in dealerships this spring, where it will be introducing a new, more powerful 3.5 liter i-VTEC V6 engine, an expanded list of AcuraWatch safety and driver-assistive technologies, as well as a host of new luxury features and tech, such as the Advanced Package adding things like rain sensing wipers, front fog lights, bi-directional keyless remote engine start or ventilated front seats.

Aesthetically, the 2016 RDX features a restyled front and rear fascia, Acura signature Jewel Eye LED headlights and LED taillights with light-pipe design, and a new three-dimensional grille. It’s not a big departure from the non-facelifted model, but it definitely helps make the car look more modern and dynamic.

Inside, there are new trim levels such as the already mentioned Advanced Package, or the Technology Package which adds a new 8-way adjustable power passenger’s front seat (4-way in base models), duel screen on-demand Multi-Information Display, HD Radio, Blind Spot Information and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.

Under the hood, it’s new 3.5 liter SOHC i-VTEC V6 engine uses Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) cylinder deactivation technology. Max HP and torque figures have risen to 279 HP (+6 HP) and 252 lb-ft (+ 1 lb-ft) respectively, while the torque curve has been tweaked for more immediate response under acceleration. The VCM system allows for deactivation of two of the engine’s 6 cylinders, helping improve highway fuel economy by 1 mpg – 19/28 mpg for AWD models and 20/29 mpg for FWD models (city/highway).

Dynamically, the RDX has an updated steering control system and increased suspension mount stiffness, which together with their intelligent AWD system should make this car a bit more fun to drive, by giving it greater rear torque bias to increase stability and all-weather performance. It’s 9 speed automatic gearbox should also help not just with economy and performance but also with prestige within the premium SUV segment.

“The RDX ended on a high note in 2014, posting its best sales year ever, but at Acura, we are not content in resting on our laurels,” said Mike Accavitti, senior vice president and general manager of Acura. “The 2016 RDX gets a major infusion of Acura brand DNA including enhancements to styling, driving performance, and exciting new luxury feature-content, further solidifying its place as the one to beat in the entry luxury SUV segment.”

Both the Acura RDX as well as the MDX have formed quite the 1-2 punch last year, outselling German rivals such as the BMW X3 and X5 duo or the Audi Q5 and Q7 duo.

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