Acura describes the RDX and MDX as “the best 1-2 punch in the luxury SUV game,” but the brand has just trademarked a new nameplate that could make that combination a three-piece.
Autoguide reports that on February 11th, Honda Motor Company filed a trademark with the US Patent and Trademark Office to register the ‘CDX’ name, which is rumored to be for a sub-RDX Acura vehicle.
Acura has mulled the idea of a small crossover for some time, one that would compete with the popular Buick Encore as well as the Jeep Renegade and Mazda CX-3.
The CDX, which is not to be confused with the low-grade plywood or Sega console of the same name, will most likely be based on the upcoming Honda HR-V (pictured).
The 2016 HR-V is due out later this year, and will equip a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with 138 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque. Power will be channeled through a six-speed manual or CVT to standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.
The HR-V is based on the third-generation Honda Fit platform, but it is 13.4 inches longer, 3.1 inches wider, and 2.2 inches taller. It will include the Fit’s second-row ‘Magic Seat’ layout, which allows occupants to arrange the seats in different groupings to maximize interior space.
It also boasts 100.1 cubic feet of passenger volume and 57.8 cu. ft. of cargo volume with the rear seats folded down. That’s a noticeable improvement over the Nissan Juke’s 86.7 cu. ft. and 35.9 cu. ft. specifications.
The Acura CDX, if and when it is built, will undoubtedly feature similar characteristics.
Stay tuned for our first drive of the 2016 Honda HR-V, which will go live on March 16th.
