2025 Acura ADX A-Spec Review: Chic Subcompact SUV or Overpriced Miss?

2025 Acura ADX Review-1

2025 Acura ADX Review: If you’ve been eyeing the 2025 Acura ADX A-Spec, you might be wondering: Is it the luxury SUV you’ve been waiting for—or just a fancy HR-V in disguise? I spent a week with Acura’s newest subcompact SUV, and here’s the real scoop.

Meet the 2025 Acura ADX A-Spec

The ADX is Acura’s answer to the expanding market for subcompact luxury SUVs. Its continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine which generates 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque are comparable to Honda’s HR-V. The A-Spec Advance trim I tested had a starting price of $35,000 and a maximum price of approximately $44,600.

While You Care for Your Car, Care for Your Child’s Future Too 💖

A fun and educational book every parent should gift their kid.

Kiddy Store Get Kiddy Store Fortune Now

Although Acura has only sold 6,593 units through July the company hopes that its svelte styling and high-end features will position it to compete with the Audi Q3, BMW X2, Lexus NX, Mercedes GLA, Mini Countryman and Volvo XC40.

2025 Acura ADX Review-2

First Impressions: Inside and Out

The ADX looks clean and understated, perfect for city driving. Parking is easy thanks to its compact size. Step inside, and you’ll notice the high-end leather interior with suede accents in a retro Yacht-Rock blue—a refreshing change from the typical black-and-gray luxury interiors.

Front seats are comfy with ample storage, while rear legroom is decent—but the stylish roofline limits rear headroom. The Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker sound system shines at low speeds but wind and road noise drown it out on the highway.

2025 Acura ADX Review-3

Performance: Adequate but Not Exciting

Here’s the rub: the ADX’s engine is smooth, but it lacks punch. Acceleration is okay for everyday driving, but it doesn’t live up to the sporty reputation of Acura’s Integra. AWD is optional, and fuel economy sits at 25 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined—respectable for the class.

During my week with the SUV, the key fob occasionally misfired, requiring multiple presses to start the car. Not a dealbreaker, but definitely a red flag for a luxury vehicle.

Tech & Features

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard making the ADX user-friendly. Controls are intuitive, which is always a plus for a tech-savvy driver. But beyond the basics nothing about the ADX screams “luxury.”

Final Thought: Luxury or Just Fancy?

The ADX has charm: stylish interior, compact size, and solid fuel efficiency. But under the hood and behind the wheel, it doesn’t match the performance or refinement of true luxury competitors. At its price point it could be a Hyundai, Nissan or even VW and it wouldn’t feel out of place.

Acura fans hoping for a mini Integra in SUV form may be left wanting more. It’s a competent, pleasant ride—but the ADX doesn’t justify its premium badge… yet.

FAQ’s 

Q1: Is the Acura ADX a true luxury SUV?

A: Not quite. While it has upscale material and design its performance and tech fall short of premium competitor.

Q2: How fuel-efficient is the ADX?

A: Expect about 27 mpg combined which is solid for a subcompact SUV.

Q3: What’s the cost range?

A: The base ADX start at $35,000 while the A-Spec Advance can reach $44,600.

Also Read: Most Reliable Small SUV in 2025: Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5?