Now that we’re well into the new year, it’s time to welcome the first discontinued model announcement of 2026. This one caught us a bit by surprise, mostly because it’s an SUV that has respectable sales.
Later this year, Acura will stop building the RDX compact SUV at its Ohio plant. But unlike the TLX sedan, which went out of production last summer with no direct replacement planned, the RDX will come back for a fourth generation (teaser photo below). But not for, “a couple of years,” according to an Acura statement.
Once current RDX production ends, Acura will have a hole in its SUV lineup until at least 2028, leaving just the subcompact ADX, and the three-row MDX in dealerships. The short-lived ZDX EV SUV was discontinued at the end of the 2025 model year.
As for the next gen RDX, it will be a hybrid. Acura didn’t say much else, like whether a pure gas option will also be available. They did say, however, that the new RDX will have a two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain. It will be the first Acura so equipped.
Acura didn’t say when the 2026 RDX would cease production, but it’s coming off a year where its sales were down 26.2 percent versus 2024. Still, its 31,627 units sold made it the second-best selling Acura in the U.S. behind the MDX. Despite being refreshed in 2022 and 2025, the third gen RDX has been around since 2018, so its age could be a factor in its sales decline.
Regardless, it’ll be strange to see the RDX disappear, even if it’s only temporary. The compact SUV has been a staple in Acura’s lineup since 2006. We’ll be sure to update as we learn more.
Full press release follows.
Torrance, Calif., Jan. 14, 2026 — Acura today showed a teaser of the next-generation RDX and confirmed plans for a two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain – a first for the brand. The all-new fourth-generation of the compact SUV is in development and planned for market introduction in the next couple of years. The addition of the RDX hybrid is part of the brand’s strategy to offer a mix of gas-powered, hybrid and EV models to meet the needs of Acura customers. In anticipation of the first hybrid RDX, production of the 2026 RDX will be suspended later this year. RDX is currently built at the East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio, alongside the Acura MDX, using domestic and globally made parts.
“For nearly two decades, RDX has been one of the most popular Acura models, so it’s fitting that the upcoming fourth-generation RDX will be the first Acura to feature our two-motor hybrid-electric system,” said Mike Langel, assistant vice president of Acura National Sales. “The RDX hybrid is expected to arrive at dealerships within the next couple of years, and we’re thrilled to share this news as Acura celebrates its 40th anniversary—making this milestone even more special.”
20 Years of Acura RDX Innovation
For two decades, and three generations, the Acura RDX has been a cornerstone of the Acura SUV lineup with cumulative sales of around 850,000 units in North America. RDX represents the premium performance brand’s unique blend of advanced engineering and everyday practicality.
First generation: introduced for the 2007 model year, RDX marked the first Acura entry into the emerging compact premium SUV segment. RDX delivered a dynamic driving experience with an all-new turbocharged engine, a first for the company in North America, and the Acura brand’s acclaimed torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), underscoring the Acura commitment to innovation and performance.
Second generation: the launch of the second-generation RDX for the 2013 model year, broadened its appeal with a refined and powerful V6 engine, enhanced ride comfort and a premium, high-tech interior.
Third generation: introduced for the 2019 model year, the third-generation RDX focused on performance more than ever before, delivering an elevated driving experience with a return to turbocharged power, the latest generation of SH-AWD® and cutting-edge technologies, including the advanced AcuraWatch™ safety and driver assistance system, and True Touchpad Interface.
Photos courtesy of Acura
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