Acura raised the bar in the luxury crossover segment in 2006, when it launched RDX. Redesigned for its third generation in 2019, RDX essentially stands pat for 2020 except for a new Platinum White exterior paint scheme and a few cosmetics. Even without massive changes, RDX has received industry accolades including taking home a “2020 Best Family Luxury Car” honor by Parents magazine; earning “Best-Buy” status from Consumer Guide® and receiving top-safety pick recognition by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Preferring to load the basic vehicle and allow buyers to modify and tailor the vehicle to fit personal needs and desires, the 2020 RDX is packaged as a single model with no trim levels, but as a model that can be equipped with appropriate upwteaking packages.

Interior augmentations include Acura True Touchpad Interface™ with 10.2-inch HD display, Acura sports seats with available full-grain perforated Milano leather and up to 16-way power adjustment (12-way standard), Natural Language Voice Recognition, Frameless interior rearview mirror with integrated HomeLink™, available heated steering wheel and available Surround-View Camera System

Last year, RDX became the first in a new generation of Acura models designed and engineered around Acura's innovative Precision Crafted Performance brand values. A top-seller in the premium compact SUV niche, the current RDX generation model is the first RDX model to be designed and engineered in America, with styling design conducted in the Acura Design Studio in Los Angeles, California. Its development was conducted by Acura’s engineering team headquartered in Raymond, Ohio, adjacent to the RDX's manufacturing home in East Liberty, Ohio where RDX is produced, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

The 2020 RDX commands the road with an aggressive and athletic pose, long and wide stance, wheels pushed to the corners and sharply sculpted design details. RDX exterior highlights include exceptional aerodynamics with specially shaped front-end components, a rigid, lightweight and acoustically sealed chassis, purposely positioned rear spoiler, and a rounded in-motion demeanor. Premium exterior details include all-LED lighting featuring the next generation of Acura's Jewel Eye™ LED headlights and an ultra-wide power tilt and slide panoramic moonroof, standard on all grades. Measuring a robust 186.8 inches long, 65.7 inches high and 74.8 inches wide on a 108.3-inch wheelbase, RDX weighs in with curb weights of 3783 lbs. to 3829 lbs., depending on added packages. Ground clearance is a generous 8.2 inches.

The RDX power system is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations, and the luxury SUV delivers with an attentive direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC inline-4-cylinder engine with VTEC® valvetrain. Mated to a niche-first 10-speed automatic transmission, the set-up delivers a peak output of 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The system shows virtually no lag, with solid off-the-line acceleration, and passing is power-plus. Uphill dominance is effortless and around-town smoothness is the order of the day. In track tests, RDX performs much better than one would expect, with steady and exciting time trials -- 5.7-second (hand-timed) zero-to-60 dash and a 14.4-second (hand-timed) quarter-mile.

While not an autocross champion, RDX handling was above average for the segment, with aggressive steering compliance, predictable understeer, a smooth and confident surface ride and average body sway and top wobble during autocross maneuvers.

From a fuel-efficiency perspective, RDX did well for the niche and met its EPA rating of 22mpg/city, 28mpg/highway and 24mpg/combined, with a mixed-use test average of 23.8 mpg.

The RDX cabin offers a high level of convenience and technology in a comfortable environment. High-end appointments fill the interior and include authentic brushed aluminum accents, available genuine Olive Ash wood trim, hand-wrapped and stitched leather trim, and soft full-grain Milano leather seating surfaces. Filled with tech, infotainment and comfort, the RDX cabin affords ample room for five, providing 40.0 inches of front headroom and 38.0 inches in row two; front legroom is 42.0 inches and rear legroom is 38.0; while shoulder room is 60.0 inches up front and 57.0 inches in the rear seats.

The 2020 Acura RDX has earned the highest possible safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).The third-generation RDX offers the highest level of standard safety and driver-assistance features in the model's history – and in its class. The AcuraWatch™ suite of driver-assistance technologies is now standard on all RDX grades, along with a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, while the Technology Package and higher grades add Blind Spot Information, front and rear parking sensors and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.

The 2020 Acura RDX starts at $37,800 in Front-Wheel Drive. Apex Blue Pearl exterior paint required several package upgrades including changing the standard Ebony interior to Red and the standard 19-in Glitter Silver Wheels to A-Spec 20-in. Shark Gray Wheels. The change also added the $3200 Technology Package with Navigation, Premium Sound, Leather Seats and Driver Assistance; and the $3000 A-Spec® Package with Exterior Design and Interior Detail tweaks, Surround Sound and 20-Inch Wheels. I am a believer of All-Wheel-Drive in most cases, and we upgraded to Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ for $2000. With a Destination Charge of $1025, my 2020 Acura RDX test vehicle stickered at $47,425.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

TV hosts, TV cars, industry legends and throngs of cars/enthusiasts came to Carlisle, Pennsylvania for the annual Carlisle Chrysler Nationals car show.  From July 10-12 the grounds featured decades of history, all in once place.  In addition, there was parts shopping, special displays and more as Chrysler weekend became THE first big car show in the country for most attendees.

Things officially got up and running Thursday evening, July 9 as the Mopar Rebellion Car Club hosted its annual kick-off party at the neighboring Carlisle Expo Center.  Here, over 400 cars cruised in and hundreds more mingled as music played in the background and the smell of barbeque on the grill provided the flavor of the evening.  As the sun set on the night, it ushered in the event itself, Friday, Saturday and even Sunday at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds. 

With gates opening at 7 a.m. Friday morning, excitement was such that cars and enthusiasts rolled in non-stop until mid-day as they found their spot on the grounds to park and enjoy the event!  Once there, the special displays all around kept show-goers snapping photos and turning heads all day long.  Displays included ones dedicated to 50 years of the following:  Superbird, Challenger, Duster, Pro Stock and 1970 Charger, while also recognizing 25 ears of the Neon.  There was even a Survivor tent, where original/unrestored beauties sat two deep, amazing all those who passed by.

As Friday transitioned to Saturday, sunny skies and beautiful weather remained, as did the enthusiasm from everyone at Carlisle.  There was no shortage of special guests either.  Anchored by Garage Squad and All Girls Garage star Cristy Lee, the TV experts went from “as seen on TV” to “as seen at Carlisle.”  Lee was joined by Dave Rea, Butch Leal, the Golden Commandos, Herb McCandless, Joe Pappas, Ted Spehar and more.  Each spent time signing autographs, posing for photos and talking shop.  While most car owners would say their cars are the stars, there were two cars that stood out; a pair of Superbirds in Building T.  One was owned by NASCAR legend Richard Petty, the other was famously occupied by Jerry Seinfeld and Will Ferrell for the former’s program, “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.”

Another hot draw for guests, both spectator and show car owners alike, was the Hellcat thrill rides from Dodge.  While the ride only lasts about 30 seconds, it’s the ride of a lifetime for many in a stock Hellcat Charger or Challenger.  Piloted by professional drivers from Dodge, the track at Carlisle was going non-stop all weekend, leaving guests wanting more!

A few nice added touches were mixed in with all the fun on Saturday, including a mid-morning wedding and a ‘70s themed car and costume parade around the grounds.  Finally, the fun of the parade culminated with the car community recognizing a guest battling cancer with a cash donation, autographed Richard Petty cowboy hat and a special message from Richard Petty himself.

While 2020 is a wrap, the 2021 event is already taking shape.  Planned displays include 50 years of the Demon and Old Skool paint jobs just to name a few.  If you can’t wait until July 9-11, 2021…Carlisle Events has an early Mopar option for you in sunny Lakeland, Florida as part of Winter AutoFest.  This event runs February 19-21 and features a Mopar Fun Field, complete with club awards and participant voting for awards.  Learn all about each event online and check out the 2020 winner’s list now at www.CarlisleEvents.com.

The Carlisle Ford Nationals have been THE destination for Ford lovers since its inception in 1995.  Since then, the relationship with Ford Motor Company has grown exponentially; so much so that Ford frequently recognizes the event as its jumping off point for showcasing new products in front of their enthusiast base.  Carlisle Events/the Carlisle Ford Nationals are excited to share that Ford will bring a quartet of new vehicles to Carlisle, showing them off for the first time in front of such large crowds.  In fact, select vehicles will essentially be on display for the first time anywhere!

Cruise to the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds July 31-August 2 for the past, present and future of the brand on display, all in one place.  The future is now with Ford as they’ll proudly showcase their ALL-NEW 2021 F-150 Truck AND 2021 MACH 1 Mustang at Carlisle.  In addition, the 2020 GT350 and 2020 GT350R Heritage Edition Mustangs will be on display too.  With the national and international car show circuit essentially off the books for 2020, the Carlisle Ford Nationals become THE launching point and prime viewing location for these vehicles.

Ford MAY have some other surprise vehicles planned for event weekend, but what’s known and confirmed at this time is that those four rides will anchor their display at Carlisle.  Flanking these future classics will be their spacious Ford Lifestyle trailer.  Within and around this trailer will be stylish merchandise for sale and products on display that accessorize, power or compliment some of their most popular brands.

“It’s awesome to see the latest and greatest from Ford Motor Company each year,” noted Ford Nationals event manager Ken Appell.  “Ford partners with us each year to show enthusiasts their products and get feedback on them.  It’s great to see them back again this year with some really cool new Fords.”

New vehicles aren’t the only ones being showcased at Carlisle starting July 31.  Special displays will honor the past.  These highlights include a 15^th Anniversary display of the Ford GT featuring a LeMans raced GT, a Euro Ford Garage featuring the 50^th of the Capri and 35^th of the Merkur, a Thunderbird reunion, Starliner showcase and more!  While many of those rides will be indoors, the National Parts Depot Showfield will be laced with Ford branded rides spanning nearly every era of production.

Cars don’t just show at Carlisle, they go too.  Friday night features the real-street shootout, the GT display will come to life with track time and a parade around grounds, there’s an exhaust contest and of course the daily parade of cars coming and going from the grounds.

Carlisle Events is COVID-19 compliant.  To learn more about the Health Safety Measures in place, plan the weekend via Advance Arrival info, register to show, become a vendor or simply purchase spectator tickets to go, visit www.CarlisleEvents.com or call 717-243-7855.

America’s only four-door muscle car, the Dodge Charger, has added a Widebody exterior to its high-performance lineup for 2020, and by tweaking its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® Hellcat V-8 engine to produce 717hp, the 2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat takes home the honor of being the most powerful and fastest mass-produced sedan in the world. The top-selling American sedan on the market, and America’s only four-door muscle car, the Dodge Charger continues its strong sales in the seventh year of its seventh generation, with a full redesign, expected for 2021.

With seven trim models and four power options from 300hp to 717hp, the 2020 Dodge Charger lineup, adds a new aggressive and modern Widebody exterior, standard on Charger SRT Hellcat and available on Charger Scat Pack, with new front and rear fascias with integrated fender flares, adding 3.5 inches of width over wider wheels and tires. Also for 2020, the Dodge SRT offers a wide variety of newly designed wheels, wheel finishes, new and updated packages and Equipment Groups, new premium interior materials, three new exterior colors and new badges.

Also in 2020, Dodge offers the Daytona 50th Anniversary Edition on the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody, powered by the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® Hellcat V-8 engine with an extra boost of power: 717 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque. Other new items include cosmetic tweaks -- performance hood, fascia, sculpted side sills, spoiler and high-bolstered seats -- on Charger R/T and Charger GT models.

Drawing design cues from its historic 1969 model, Charger is muscular with a pavement-hugging wide body. My Charger R/T test vehicle was 200.8 inches long, 75.0 inches wide and 57.8 inches high on a 120-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of about 4286 lbs. and ground clearance of 5.2 inches.

Charger has been a muscle beast since inception, and the 2020 version explodes past the original 1965 Charger’s 230 horses with rocketlike set-ups. The standard Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine is efficient and brawny with 292hp and 260 lbs-ft of torque for an EPA rating of 19/city and 30/hwy for AWD. The optional Super TrackPack upgrade increases the power to 300hp and 264 lbs-ft. My R/T trim test ride was powered by the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with a throaty 370 hp and 395 lbs-ft. My power mill was rated at 15mpg/city and 24mpg/highway and my pedal-mashing town, highway and track trials averaged 22.6mpg. The Street & Racing Technology (SRT) Scat Pack and Daytona 392 trims benefit from a 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 that muscles out 485 hp and 475 lbs-ft of torque for a rating of 15/city and 24/hwy and street-legal/track-worthy speed. The SRT Hellcat monsters supercharge their 6.2-liter HEMI for a pro-tracklike 707hp to 717hp and 650 lbs-ft of torque for racing and performance capabilities at an EPA rating of 12/city and 21/hwy.

I would have preferred the muscle control of a manual shift, but my 5.7 HEMI was mated to a responsive TorqueFlite 8-Speed Automatic Transmission. Highway passing at speed is bold, and in track tests, my Charger R/T finished off a hand-timed zero-to-60mph sprint in 5.8 seconds, and completed a quarter-mile in 14.2 seconds.

Charger is wide and low and hugs the road, while the responsive rack and pinion steering with electric power assist displays autocross worthiness. Charger’s independent SLA front suspension with high upper “A” arm, coil spring over gas-charged monotube shock absorbers and stabilizer bar and the rear’s one piece lower-control arms on the AWD models provide stable handling.

The driver-oriented interior is luxury-oriented, outfitted with premium, soft-touch materials, a full-color driver information display gauge cluster, and an instrument panel center stack with the newest Uconnect system. The interior harkens back to the 1960s in room with only 38.6 inches of front headroom and 36.6 in the rear seats – fine if you are under 6-feet tall. Legroom is good for even taller drivers and passengers, at 41.8 inches in row one with 40.1 in row two, and wide-body shoulder room of 59.5 inches in front and 57.9 in the rear.

With seven trims and multiple variations and power options, the 2020 Dodge Charger starts at basing from $27,570 for the Charger SXT and $29,490 for the GT, both with a 300-hp set-up, to $66,520 for the 707hp SRT Hellcat Widebody. My 370-hp test 2020 Charger R/T was third on the trim list, base priced at $34,290.

In F8 Green exterior paint, with a Black Carbon dual hood stripe (for $995), we upgraded the standard Black cloth Performance seats with Nappa/Alcantara Performance seats. The Plus Group added $2695 for a cornucopia of items including 20-Inch x 8.0-inch machined with Granite pocket wheels, automatic adjust in reverse exterior mirrors, blind-spot indicator with memory/power/heat mirrors, blind-spot and cross-path detection, heated front and second-row seats, heated steering wheel, power front driver and passenger seats and more. The Driver Convenience Group for $795, added Blind Spot power heated mirrors, Blind Spot and Cross-Path Detection, Auto-Dimming Mirror and more; and the $995 Navigation and Travel Group with SiriusXM® Traffic Plus and Uconnect® 4CNAV with 8.4-Inch Display. Adding Destination charges of $1495 put the sticker-as-tested at $42,475, but 2020 National Retail Consumer Cash  incentives of $3700 cut my price to $38,775, so check your local dealer for available discounts.

You can see five decades of the Dodge Charger on display at the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals, at the Carlisle (PA) Fairgrounds, July 10-12. The largest Mopar event in the world, the event features more than 2,800 vehicles from all eras of the Chrysler brand. View classic, muscle cars and high-performance vehicles including displays showcasing 50 years of the Plymouth Duster, 50 Years of the Superbird, 50 Years of Pro Stock and 50 Years of the AAR ‘Cuda and Challenger T/A. There is also a display of the 25th Anniversary of the Neon, and Thrill Rides in Dodge Hellcats, as well as cars, parts, tools, memorabilia, collectibles and more for sale in the event’s Mopar Automotive Flea Market.

<I> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years. </I> 

It took a little while, but Carlisle Events was finally able to host its first specialty car show of the season.  For two days in June (26-27) all felt right with the world as the Carlisle Chevrolet Nationals took over the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds.  Over 700 cars adorned the National Parts Depot Showfield, spotlighting the past, present and future of the brand.  Yes; there were Camaros, but the show offered so much more than that.  Special displays highlighted the Nova, Monte Carlo, GMs of the ‘70s, LS6 454 and so much more. 

There were some new aspects for event weekend in 2020, including a rolling exhaust contest and first-time guest, TV host and author, Courtney Hansen.  For the exhaust contest, 12 cars competed in the finals in front of a trio of judges from the Capital City G8 Club.  When the proverbial dust settled, Rachel Lynch and her 2006 Trailblazer was selected as the winner.  For Hansen, her first-ever trip to Carlisle was a success, hosting two autograph sessions and even making a few purchases within the automotive flea market.

Otherwise, the Chevrolet Nationals maintained its position as the largest event of its type in the region.  Cars rolled on grounds throughout the day Friday and into the early part of Saturday.  One surprise entrant on the Showfield was a C8 Corvette, though its likely not the last time a C8 will be showcased at Carlisle this summer.

Participant balloting offered numerous awards for showgoers, as did Celebrity Judged selections, Carlisle Elite picks and Standard of Excellence, powered by eJudged.  These winners, combined with competitions like largest club, coolest club and the exhaust contest were recognized as part of the evening awards parade in front of the stage.

Showing cars wasn’t the only selling point to the event.  Vendors and midway partners made buying and selling simple within the automotive flea market.  From toy cars to collectibles, bikes to car parts, there was a little something for everyone.  Best of all, the deals came face to face vs. online sales where one never really knows what they’ll find or who they are buying it from.

This year’s event also hosted the launch of a season long campaign where guests can donate money or goods to the United Way or Project SHARE of PA.  Donation tins and bins are available at the main gates for all events between now and the end of Fall Carlisle on October 5.

There were some modifications to the Chevy event in 2020 only, as decisions were made in advance of event weekend to augment or eliminate select activities to best promote social distancing.

While 2020 is a wrap, the 2021 event isn’t all that far off.  The 2021 Carlisle Chevrolet Nationals take place June 25-26 and will once again be flanked by the single day Summer Sale, powered by Carlisle Auctions.  Displays for 2021 “Carlisle Comic Car Con,” a spotlight of GM themed TV and movie cars, the 50^th Anniversary of the Chevy Vega, and 50^th Anniversary of GM Swaps just to name a few.  To check out photos of this year’s event and learn more about this, and other events on the Carlisle schedule, visit www.CarlisleEvents.com.