One would think a small crossover based on the Acura Integra platform would be an instant winner. One would be surprised to find out the 2025 Acura ADX isn’t quite what I’d hoped for.
I had the chance to get about 20 minutes of wheel time a couple of weeks ago in Wisconsin, and I really had high hopes for the ADX. Those hopes weren’t completely dashed, but they weren’t fully realized, either.
The biggest letdown here is, perhaps unsurprisingly, the continuously variable automatic transmission — it just doesn’t feel well-sorted. The ADX also felt a tad underpowered with its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder putting out just 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.
It’s a shame that the engine can’t even match the power of the base Integra (200/192). A little more verve would make the ADX that much more fun — and even perhaps make the CVT more livable.
The good news is that the ADX does handle well — this is where the Integra platform’s influence shines. It’s sharp enough in cornering to bring about some grins, even with a little bit of body roll. Acura/Honda remains very good at dialing in steering feel, as well.
There’s also very little in the way of ride sacrifice — it’s comfortable while still being sporty, no too stiff or too soft.
Inside, it’s fine — familiar to anyone who has spent time in the Integra or Honda Civic. That means it’s functional, a tad bland, and the infotainment screen is tacked on.
It does feel a touch small inside, though not quite cramped. I didn’t have a chance to explore the rear seat.
Styling-wise, I like the look from in front, but the rear end looks too much like a Honda HR-V for my taste. Acura went a bit too conservative here and missed the chance to stand out.
I should note that I didn’t have a window sticker to refer to, so I am not sure if this one was equipped with all-wheel drive or certain other features. I’ve reached out to Acura for clarification and will update if necessary.*
*Acura has confirmed the one I drove was all-wheel drive.
I wanted to really like the ADX, but instead I found it to be a mixed bag. The handling is the highlight here, but the overall package feels underdone. There’s nothing wrong with using the Integra as a base for a crossover, but it feels like Acura didn’t give the ADX enough of its own personality — it didn’t resonate with me the way the RDX and MDX do.
Acura also needed to give it a skoosh more power. I am not asking for Type S numbers here — but 200/200 would’ve been fine.
The 2025 Acura ADX presents itself as an affordable, sporty luxury crossover. It’s sporty, but could be sportier, and affordable, but could be more affordable (base prices are over $35K and into the 40s for upper trims). Thankfully this could be fixed quite easily — a little more power, some better CVT tuning, and restyle of the rear end would go a long away.
[Images: Acura]
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