Acura RDX Towing Capacity (All Years 2007-2026)

The Acura RDX is a compact luxury crossover SUV produced by Acura, Honda’s premium division, since the 2007 model year. The RDX has gone through three distinct generations, each featuring different engine configurations and drivetrain systems while maintaining a consistent towing specification.

This guide covers Acura RDX towing capacity by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, and hitch requirements. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits helps protect the engine, transmission, and braking systems from overload-related wear and failure.

2026 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2026 Acura RDX carries a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) when equipped with the Acura accessory trailer hitch and hitch ball. All trim levels share the same towing specification regardless of drivetrain configuration. Staying within these rated limits ensures proper braking response and drivetrain protection.

2025 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2025 Acura RDX supports a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) across all trim levels when properly equipped with the factory accessory hitch. The 2.0L turbocharged engine paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission handles this trailer weight limit consistently. Tongue weight should be maintained at approximately 10% of the total loaded trailer weight.

2024 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2024 Acura RDX has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) when equipped with the accessory trailer hitch and ball, consistent across all configurations. The 10-speed automatic transmission maintains gear management during towing under this rated load. Occupant load directly affects available towing capacity, so payload distribution should be confirmed before towing.

2023 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2023 Acura RDX towing capacity is rated at 1,500 lbs (680 kg) across all trim levels including Base, Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance. This capacity applies uniformly regardless of whether the vehicle is equipped with front-wheel drive or SH-AWD.

2022 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2022 Acura RDX offers a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) when equipped with the proper hitch assembly. All trim configurations, including SX and SX Prestige, share this trailer weight rating. The Class III aftermarket hitch option provides a 2-inch receiver tube for greater accessory compatibility.

2021 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2021 Acura RDX maximum towing capacity is 1,500 lbs (680 kg) when equipped with the Acura accessory trailer hitch and hitch ball. As with all third-generation models, towing capacity decreases as the number of occupants increases due to GCWR limits. For five-occupant loads, the towing limit drops to 600 lbs (272 kg).

2020 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2020 Acura RDX towing capacity reaches a maximum of 1,500 lbs (680 kg), consistent with the third-generation platform. The standard 2.0L VTEC turbo engine provides 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque to support this rating. Towing limits vary by occupant count; with four passengers in an AWD model, the limit decreases to 1,150 lbs (522 kg).

2019 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2019 Acura RDX launched the third generation with a new 2.0L turbocharged engine borrowed from the Honda Accord, producing 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Maximum towing capacity remained at 1,500 lbs (680 kg), unchanged from previous generations. This generation also introduced the occupant-based towing limits published in the owner’s manual.

2018 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2018 Acura RDX, the final year of the second generation, uses a 3.5L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Despite the larger engine displacement, the maximum trailer weight limit of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) remains identical to prior and later models. Aftermarket Class III hitches rated up to 3,500 lbs GTW are compatible with this generation.

2017 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2017 Acura RDX offers a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with the 3.5L V6 engine across all available trim levels and drivetrain options. The FWD and AWD variants share the same manufacturer-rated trailer weight limit. Tongue weight should not exceed 150 lbs (68 kg) to maintain vehicle stability during towing.

2016 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2016 Acura RDX maintains a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg), consistent with all second-generation models in the 2013-2018 range. The 3.5L V6 engine configuration provides adequate torque output for this trailer weight limit. Combined vehicle and trailer weight must not exceed the GCWR listed in the owner’s manual.

2015 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2015 Acura RDX supports a maximum trailer weight of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) with the V6 engine and either drivetrain option. This rating applies uniformly regardless of whether the vehicle is equipped with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Occupant weight and cargo load reduce available tongue weight capacity and must be factored into towing calculations.

2014 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2014 Acura RDX towing capacity is 1,500 lbs (680 kg) across all trim levels, powered by the 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 mated to a 6-speed automatic. The 6-speed automatic transmission in this generation handles trailer loads within manufacturer limits without requiring an aftermarket transmission cooler.

2013 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2013 Acura RDX introduced the second generation with a transition from the first-generation turbocharged four-cylinder to a 3.5L naturally aspirated V6. Despite the engine change, the manufacturer towing capacity remained at 1,500 lbs (680 kg). A Class I tow package with a 1,500 lb capacity was available through Acura accessories.

2012 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2012 Acura RDX is the final year of the first generation, available with 2WD, AWD, and SH-AWD drivetrain options. Maximum towing capacity is rated at 1,500 lbs (680 kg) across all drivetrain variants. GCWR and GAWR values vary slightly based on drivetrain configuration and are listed on the door certification label.

2011 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2011 Acura RDX towing capacity is 1,500 lbs (680 kg), using the 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine throughout the first-generation lineup. Aftermarket Class III hitches compatible with the 2010-2018 RDX body are rated up to 3,500 lbs GTW but the vehicle towing limit remains 1,500 lbs.

2010 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2010 Acura RDX supports a maximum trailer weight of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) under all three available drivetrain configurations. GCWR and GAWR specifications vary incrementally across drivetrain options and are confirmed on the driver-side door jamb certification label.

2009 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2009 Acura RDX was available exclusively with the SH-AWD drivetrain, rated at 1,500 lbs (680 kg) maximum towing capacity. Acura offered an OEM trailer hitch package including a Class I hitch receiver, draw bar, retaining pin, and hitch ball for this model year.

2008 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2008 Acura RDX uses the same 2.3L turbocharged engine as the 2007 model and carries the same maximum trailer weight rating of 1,500 lbs (680 kg). The SH-AWD system was standard on all 2007-2009 RDX variants, with no FWD option available.

2007 Acura RDX Towing Capacity

The 2007 Acura RDX is the original model year, introduced with a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard SH-AWD. Maximum towing capacity was set at 1,500 lbs (680 kg) from the first year of production, establishing the consistent towing specification carried through all subsequent generations.

Towing Equipment and Setup Tips

Proper towing setup protects the vehicle and trailer from instability and mechanical stress. The following equipment requirements apply when towing with the Acura RDX.

Tow Package and Hitch Installation

Acura offers a factory accessory tow package for the RDX consisting of a hitch receiver and trailer hitch ball. The OEM package on 2007-2009 models used a Class I receiver. Aftermarket Class III hitches rated up to 3,500 lbs GTW are compatible with the 2010-2018 RDX body, though the vehicle towing capacity remains limited to 1,500 lbs. Professional hitch installation typically costs between $100 and $200, excluding hardware.

Trailer Brake Controller

The Acura RDX does not include a built-in trailer brake controller. Acura recommends using trailer brakes for any trailer weighing 1,000 lbs (450 kg) or more. Surge brakes or electronically actuated electric brakes are both acceptable; trailer brakes must not be connected to the vehicle’s hydraulic braking system, as this reduces stopping effectiveness.

Weight Distribution and Tongue Weight

Tongue weight should be maintained at approximately 10% of the total loaded trailer weight. For the RDX’s 1,500 lb maximum, tongue weight should not exceed 150 lbs (68 kg). Weight-distributing hitches are not rated as suitable for Class I or Class II receivers; confirm hitch compatibility before selecting equipment.

Tire and Load Ratings

Payload capacity directly affects available tongue weight budget. The RDX has a reported maximum payload of approximately 838-1,013 lbs depending on model year and configuration, which includes all occupants, cargo, accessories, and tongue load. Exceeding this combined limit risks overloading axle and suspension components.

Towing Setup Reference

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum towing capacity of an Acura RDX?

The maximum towing capacity of the Acura RDX is 1,500 lbs (680 kg) across all model years from 2007 to 2026. This rating applies when the vehicle is properly equipped with the factory accessory hitch and trailer hitch ball. Exceeding this limit risks transmission overheating and loss of braking control.

How much can an Acura RDX tow with a tow package?

With the Acura accessory tow package installed, the RDX can tow up to 1,500 lbs (680 kg). The OEM package on first-generation models included a Class I receiver; third-generation models use a similar accessory setup. Aftermarket Class III hitches expand mounting options but do not increase the manufacturer-rated trailer weight limit.

Does AWD or SH-AWD affect Acura RDX towing capacity?

Drivetrain selection does not change the maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) for the Acura RDX. However, occupant load combined with AWD does reduce available towing capacity. For example, four occupants in an AWD-equipped third-generation model reduces the towing limit to 1,150 lbs (522 kg).

What trailer weight is safe for an Acura RDX?

The manufacturer-rated safe trailer weight limit for the Acura RDX is 1,500 lbs (680 kg) when two occupants are present. As the number of passengers increases, the available trailer weight limit decreases due to GCWR constraints. Always calculate combined occupant weight, cargo weight, and tongue weight before connecting any trailer.

Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for an Acura RDX?

A weight-distributing hitch is not required or recommended for the Acura RDX given its 1,500 lb maximum towing capacity. Weight-distributing systems are typically used on vehicles with towing capacities above 5,000 lbs. Standard ball mounts compatible with the Class I, II, or III receiver are sufficient for the RDX’s rated trailer weight.

Should I avoid towing with a new Acura RDX?

Acura recommends avoiding towing until the vehicle has completed at least 600 miles (1,000 km) of normal driving. This break-in period allows engine, drivetrain, and braking components to seat properly before the additional stress of towing is applied. Refer to the owner’s manual for specific break-in towing guidance.

Conclusion

The Acura RDX maintains a consistent maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) across all model years and all three generations from 2007 through 2026. Towing capacity is not affected by engine type or drivetrain choice, but it is affected by the number of occupants in the vehicle. A full five-passenger load reduces the towing limit to 600 lbs (272 kg), regardless of model year or configuration.

The required hitch type varies by generation. First-generation models (2007-2012) used the SH-AWD-based platform with an OEM Class I accessory hitch. Second and third-generation models accept aftermarket Class III receivers rated above the vehicle’s towing limit. The factory tow package remains an optional accessory across all generations rather than a standard inclusion.

Always verify towing specifications using the vehicle’s owner’s manual before towing heavy loads. Confirming GCWR, GAWR, payload capacity, and tongue weight limits before each tow ensures compliance with manufacturer towing limits and protects drivetrain and braking system integrity.