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suken
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Hi all. This is my first post on this forum but I’ve been reading TOV for over 2 years now. I am posting today to ask for your opinion on what car should I buy. First of a little background of me. Currently I still drive my 99 Integra with 200K miles problem free that I had own since 2000 and my wife drives a 2008 TSX that we bought new back in 2007. As you can see, we’re Acura fans and for that reason, we’re in need of a new car next month due to us expecting our first this summer. We’re looking at either the 2012 CRV EX-L or the new RDX.
I personally prefer to drive an Acura over a Honda, for the reason that IMO, Acura offers more for the value. However, according to what I have read on this site, this is no longer the case be-tween the CRV EX-L and the new RDX. Comparing these two cars, it seems that the new RDX is better because it comes with a V6 with VCM, side mirror signal, memory seat, HomeLink and offer more options such as HID, power tailgate, etc., on the Tech Package which lead me to my next question. Why is it that Acura decides not to have HID as standard on the RDX when it cost almost $6K more than the fully loaded CRV? Our TSX, which base on 2004 design, had HID as standard and I believe HIDs were standard on all Acura cars since 2000 started with the TL? As much as I like HID and feel very disappointed that a $35K car does not comes with it, I will probably still consider the RDX over the CRV. BUT, I have read that VCM had a history with problem, so this could be a deal breaker for me. Can someone give me an honest opinion if the V6 VCM engine in the RDX will have the same problem like the other Hondas? I wish Acura would just release the new RDX as it is, but with the TSX or TL V6 engine and have HID stan-dard. It is a no brainer then that the new RDX is definitely a better value for the money and I’ll be willing to pay that extra $6K markup on the RDX.
If all things fail, we will very likely go with the CRV but one thing concern me is the radiator exposed on the lower bumper (see photo here: http://autopartcar.com/2012-honda-cr-v/ ). I went and check out the CRV in person, and those gaps are very large. A small rock can easily hit it and cause damage. Where I live, rocks hitting cars are common. Should I be concern with this? If this is potential huge ownership maintenance due to Honda mistake when designing the car, then I’ll pass on the CRV also and head on over to Toyota.
Thanks for any inputs.
~ S
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Frogger
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Honda has already paid dearly in legal battles over not protecting cooling fins, doubt they would make that mistake again. (Of course I thought that about Odyssey transmissions...)
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suken
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So you're saying according to the photo that I referenced on the link, that is not the radiator? It sure looks like the radiator to me and look at the size of those openings! They are huge and a tennis ball can easily fit in there. However, please do correct me if I am interpretating this wrong but I strongly feel that is the radiator that is exposing due to it being in the front and the chrome finished materials.
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JeffX
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suken wrote:
Hi all. This is my first post on this forum but I’ve been reading TOV for over 2 years now. I am posting today to ask for your opinion on what car should I buy. First of a little background of me. Currently I still drive my 99 Integra with 200K miles problem free that I had own since 2000 and my wife drives a 2008 TSX that we bought new back in 2007. As you can see, we’re Acura fans and for that reason, we’re in need of a new car next month due to us expecting our first this summer. We’re looking at either the 2012 CRV EX-L or the new RDX.
I personally prefer to drive an Acura over a Honda, for the reason that IMO, Acura offers more for the value. However, according to what I have read on this site, this is no longer the case be-tween the CRV EX-L and the new RDX. Comparing these two cars, it seems that the new RDX is better because it comes with a V6 with VCM, side mirror signal, memory seat, HomeLink and offer more options such as HID, power tailgate, etc., on the Tech Package which lead me to my next question. Why is it that Acura decides not to have HID as standard on the RDX when it cost almost $6K more than the fully loaded CRV? Our TSX, which base on 2004 design, had HID as standard and I believe HIDs were standard on all Acura cars since 2000 started with the TL? As much as I like HID and feel very disappointed that a $35K car does not comes with it, I will probably still consider the RDX over the CRV. BUT, I have read that VCM had a history with problem, so this could be a deal breaker for me. Can someone give me an honest opinion if the V6 VCM engine in the RDX will have the same problem like the other Hondas? I wish Acura would just release the new RDX as it is, but with the TSX or TL V6 engine and have HID stan-dard. It is a no brainer then that the new RDX is definitely a better value for the money and I’ll be willing to pay that extra $6K markup on the RDX.
If all things fail, we will very likely go with the CRV but one thing concern me is the radiator exposed on the lower bumper (see photo here: http://autopartcar.com/2012-honda-cr-v/ ). I went and check out the CRV in person, and those gaps are very large. A small rock can easily hit it and cause damage. Where I live, rocks hitting cars are common. Should I be concern with this? If this is potential huge ownership maintenance due to Honda mistake when designing the car, then I’ll pass on the CRV also and head on over to Toyota.
Thanks for any inputs.
~ S
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Personally I would stretch for the '13 RDX. I can't say why (yet) but to me it's well worth the extra money over the CR-V.
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suken
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Jeff wrote:
Personally I would stretch for the '13 RDX. I can't say why (yet) but to me it's well worth the extra money over the CR-V.
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Thanks for your suggestion and it appears that you think the RDX worth the extra cost which is a good indication. I will definitely read as much reviews as I can before decide on the purchase.
Could you or someone please confirm if that is indeed the radiator is exposing on the CRV?
Thanks.
Last edited by JeffX on 03-28-2012 15:29
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Trip
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That's probably the A/C condenser which is typically mounted in front of the radiator. While damage is probably not uncommon, I have to say I've never had any issues with cars (mostly Hondas) designed like this. For peace of mind, there are after market options from functional and tasteful to gaudy that can cover this exposed area.
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atomiclightbulb
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Jeff wrote:
Personally I would stretch for the '13 RDX. I can't say why (yet) but to me it's well worth the extra money over the CR-V. |
When does the NDA for the '13 RDX expire?
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JeffX
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Trip wrote:
That's probably the A/C condenser which is typically mounted in front of the radiator. While damage is probably not uncommon, I have to say I've never had any issues with cars (mostly Hondas) designed like this. For peace of mind, there are after market options from functional and tasteful to gaudy that can cover this exposed area.
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actually it's a pretty widespread issue with plenty of Hondas. we received a class-action notice stating that we're eligible for reimbursement for the condenser that we lost very early in the life of our '06 odyssey. I need to find the notice but it covers a wide range of Odysseys. The service department seemed very familiar with the issue but they also seemed very happy to relieve us of some $800-900. Fortunately in the 70000 miles we've driven the Odyssey since then, we've been lucky, I guess. All it took was one small rock kicked up by a truck in the lane ahead and just like that, no A/C.
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nightflow
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atomiclightbulb wrote:
When does the NDA for the '13 RDX expire?
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I believe tomorrow, March 29th, 2012.
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auto_enthu
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The 2013 RDX reviews are out.
Its too good overall to be compared to 2012 CRV EX-L.
RDX is worth the premium over CRV, and at the same time seems much cheaper in price than its lexus and bmw counterparts for similar content and offers extremely luxurious ride and at the same time good handling (although not as sportier than old RDX).
This will likely end-up to be the biggest sales success of Acura in the recent times. The biggest impact (loss of sales) will likely be on RX350 and BMW X3.
If you have money to spare for RDX, go for it.
You don't have to think twice.
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Colin
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The new RDX drives well. It's much smoother and quieter than the outgoing model. It feels roomier than the specs suggest, and the materials feel much better to the touch. I couldn't tell if/when the VCM kicked in and I didn't see an indicator like there is in the Odyssey.
In many respects, it's everything the old car wasn't, but IMO, its better suited to the customers that have been shopping the RDX but not buying for one reason or another.
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suken
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Thank you all for your inputs on this subject. I really like this new RDX for the reason that it looks much better than the CRV, especially the rear.
If the car drives well and the engine/transmission is as reliable as most Honda/Acura in the past, then this new RDX will be our next vehicle. Just for reference, I use point rating sytem when go shopping for a new car. As it stands assuming that the VCM won't have any problem, the car is at 90pts for me and anything 85pt+ is a purchase. -10pt for not having HID on the base model and I do not want to spend almost $40K on a car to get that feature. I don't really care about navigation, and other features on the Tech Package so it's not worth it IMO.
Thanks again.
~ S
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Bullwinkle
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Two things:
The Tech Package will help the car hold it's value. At least it does on Used MDXes.
Also, go flog an MDX. See how much SH-AWD means. Plus there are some pretty good deals on MDXes. And I LOVE mine.
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cksi1372
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suken wrote:
Thank you all for your inputs on this subject. I really like this new RDX for the reason that it looks much better than the CRV, especially the rear.
~ S
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+100, IMO, and precisely why we will be looking at the RDX over the CRV. Better half hates the rear of the new CRV. I wanted her to get the MDX, but this new RDX is perfect for her to replace her 2006 CRV-SE.
Look forward to your review, if you purchase the RDX.
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Brutus
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I always find it funny when 2 cars are compared at 2 completely different price points, but this seems to be a common occurrence with Hondas.
RDX: 34320
CRV: 27045.
This is a whopping $7000 difference, what... about a 25% difference in price? If you are truly considering the CRV and like it and logically look at it, save the money and buy a CRV (or compare it to others in its class), that is a lot of money you can use towards other things. But we all know logic and cars don't mix. If I gave my wife these 2 options she would choose the CRV just because the money, forget about performance and cachet.
Just my opinion but if your budget is truly $35, then test drive other cars in the same ball park range of price...maybe even an Odyssey, a TSX wagon, an Audix Q5, caddy SRX, or mazda cx-9 as some examples.
Good luck, I personally would buy an RDX but only because that is what my budget would allow, and it hits a bulls eye for what I need/want in a car.
B.
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suken
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If I don't compare the CRV EX-L to the base RDX, what else can I compare it to? The EX-L is the top of the line model, so obviously I'm going to compare it to the base RDX since they both have similar features. Of course the prices are signficantly different, that was the main reason why I made the comment about the RDX isn't offering the value package as it used to over the CRV for the reason I stated above. If I wanted the two car's price to be similar like you had suggested, I would have to add in the navigation, and AWD on the CRV which would bring it closer to the base RDX. But if I am going to do that, shouldn't I do the same for the RDX and that would bring the Tech RDX to $39ish which create a much larger price gap between the two? I clearly stated above that I wanted a H/A and do not want navigation, etc., so obviously I am only looking at the base model with some luxury features. Please note above, I'm a Honda/Acura fan and currently only the CRV and RDX are the two CUV vehicles that I'm interested in. I really don't care for other type of car/brand that you had suggested.
Also, just because I have the money and budget myself at a certain amount, that does not mean I would go out and buy something that is in my budget range. I buy what I personally think is a good value, not because I can afford it.
~ S
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suken
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Forgot to mention, but thanks for your suggestions anyway even though we share different perspectives.
I really wish the RDX came standard with HID. Without it, it is a lesser value package than the CRV EX-L IMO due to the price differences as you've noted. Again, the only reason why I am comparing these two vechicles because I am in a market for a CUV and only want either a H/A.
~ S
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honda_freak
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Just to put this thought out there, I'm sure that there will be aftermarket HID setups that can be purchased and installed for less than $100.
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suken
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I see where you're coming from Honda_Freak. Before I had my Integra headlights retrofitted with TSX HIDs, I had PNP HID kit before that. It made sense at the time to buy cheap PNP kit that didn't last long for a used car with value less than 10K at the time. However, I refuse to put a PNP HID kit for a brand new car that will cost around $37K after tax and run into the risk of damaging some electrical wiring that will void the warranty. Yes, I do want HID really bad, but I will not risk a $37K purchase because of it. For the reason that I don't want to risk it, that then leaves me to carefully evalute the base RDX to see if it is worth the cost that it does.
~ S
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MasterOfDaDomain
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I think both are sensible choices, obviously it's up to your own circumstances to evaluate if the extra cost of RDX is worth it - it's always subjective to evaluate value.
The new RDX seems to take the road what the Infiniti is taking with the JX35 - solid mainstream crossovers that will earn good returns for the car makers, but lack distinct personality or emotion. For most buyers, that's sufficient. I'm sure Lexus is busy getting their CUVs ready to fight. My guess is that the Germans wouldn't be that concerned.
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Brutus
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"If I don't compare the CRV EX-L to the base RDX, what else can I compare it to? "
uh I listed a bunch of comparisons.
Of course, features to features, that is why I put the prices as I did and chose the base, thought that was clear.
I was not trying to be confrontational, and you clearly fall in the first point I made..this is common place and I find it funny, so many times the argument Accord or TL. I personally am a Honda/TSX guy, but guess what I test drove others in the marketplace to better evaluate my choices, just makes sense, you would be surprised at how far some companies have come. Have always had a Honda product in my garage alongside some other makes.
The value proposition I suppose can be evaluated differently by everyone in regards to cars when you bring emotion into it. As pure transportation doing what you need it to do the CRV is the better value, that extra money can be put towards investing in something else. I say hell if you are not worried about budget and are starting a family the pimped out Ody or the MDX should be on your short list as well :-)
If budget is no concern then buy the RDX after you test drive it and like it, looks like a winner. Good luck to you.
B.
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honda_freak
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I completely understand.
As for my opinion on the 2 choices, pricing aside, I think that the 2013 RDX would be the better purchase. Much more power with near the same fuel economy, sleeker looks, a few more standard amenities, quieter ride, better fit and finish, and most importantly, a LONGER WARRANTY. Loaner cars upon service, free roadside assistance... RDX all the way.
Also, fewer models will be sold so it could easily have a better resale value to top it all off, as well as avoiding the "ME TOO!" effect.
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suken
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honda_freak wrote:
I completely understand.
As for my opinion on the 2 choices, pricing aside, I think that the 2013 RDX would be the better purchase. Much more power with near the same fuel economy, sleeker looks, a few more standard amenities, quieter ride, better fit and finish, and most importantly, a LONGER WARRANTY. Loaner cars upon service, free roadside assistance... RDX all the way.
Also, fewer models will be sold so it could easily have a better resale value to top it all off, as well as avoiding the "ME TOO!" effect.
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Thanks guys. Will keep you updated soon.
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6SPDTL
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If price is a factor, its a no brainer, CRV. 95% of and RDX for 2/3 the price. If price is not a factor that 5 percent is worth it!
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Powered by Honda
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suken wrote:
I see where you're coming from Honda_Freak. Before I had my Integra headlights retrofitted with TSX HIDs, I had PNP HID kit before that. It made sense at the time to buy cheap PNP kit that didn't last long for a used car with value less than 10K at the time. However, I refuse to put a PNP HID kit for a brand new car that will cost around $37K after tax and run into the risk of damaging some electrical wiring that will void the warranty. Yes, I do want HID really bad, but I will not risk a $37K purchase because of it. For the reason that I don't want to risk it, that then leaves me to carefully evalute the base RDX to see if it is worth the cost that it does.
~ S
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lol damage the wiring. Your too much in your own head. It wont ruin anything.
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Powered by Honda
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Im think the RDX is worth the price difference. Maybe a used RDX in 2 years?
But I'm looking at the RDX pictures and I can't figure out where Honda will put the REAR and FRONT LED's on the MMC in 3 years...
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CanTex
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honda_freak wrote:
I completely understand.
As for my opinion on the 2 choices, pricing aside, I think that the 2013 RDX would be the better purchase. Much more power with near the same fuel economy, sleeker looks, a few more standard amenities, quieter ride, better fit and finish, and most importantly, a LONGER WARRANTY. Loaner cars upon service, free roadside assistance... RDX all the way.
Also, fewer models will be sold so it could easily have a better resale value to top it all off, as well as avoiding the "ME TOO!" effect.
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Homelink? Memory seats?
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RogerH
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Base and Tech Pkg both have Homelink. I know the Tech Pkg has memory seats (since I test drove one), but I couldn't find anything on acuranews.com about the memory seats, so I don't know if the base model has them.
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suken
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Just want to update that my wife and I got the White Diamond Pearl EX-L with RES and AWD. We got it at Dealer's Cost (let just say we know how to negotiate).
When our 08 TSX gets older, we'll probably trade that in for the RDX Tech Package. When we do, we'll have one CUV with good MPG, RES, AWD, lower ownership cost and one with full features such as HID, powerlift gate, navigation, etc. That would be the best of world for us. We could have purchased the RDX base for couple thousands more with the $1300 discount it was offering, but the base doesn't offer anything special over the CRV beside the V6. Yes, I know the base comes with Homelink, memory seats, dual power seats, etc., but so does our TSX, so it's nothing special. The Tech Package would be consider a step up to our CRV IMO.
Su
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Powered by Honda
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suken wrote:
Just want to update that my wife and I got the White Diamond Pearl EX-L with RES and AWD. We got it at Dealer's Cost (let just say we know how to negotiate).
When our 08 TSX gets older, we'll probably trade that in for the RDX Tech Package. When we do, we'll have one CUV with good MPG, RES, AWD, lower ownership cost and one with full features such as HID, powerlift gate, navigation, etc. That would be the best of world for us. We could have purchased the RDX base for couple thousands more with the $1300 discount it was offering, but the base doesn't offer anything special over the CRV beside the V6. Yes, I know the base comes with Homelink, memory seats, dual power seats, etc., but so does our TSX, so it's nothing special. The Tech Package would be consider a step up to our CRV IMO.
Su
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quieter more refined ride with more sound deadening is in the base rdx over cr-v. Accoustic glass * thicker windshield and longer warranty.
Grats on the CR-V!!!
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