Let's talk about the one thing that makes the Acura RDX different from other compact luxury SUVs: a turbocharged engine.

When it was introduced in 2006, Acura engineers equipped the compact SUV with its first turbocharged inline-four, producing a compelling package that was unique amongst V6-powered rivals such as the BMW X3, Infiniti FX, and Lexus RX.

The RDX offered slightly less power than most of its counterparts, but did so with just four cylinders - an impressive feat that sounded like a lot of fun.

And yes, the RDX is certainly a lot of fun to drive, with no small thanks to the turbo-four under the hood.

Still, you have to wonder what this SUV might feel like with a V-6. If the entry-level TSX sedan can get a V6 (beginning this summer), why not the RDX?

That said, what the Acura RDX does have is just about everything.

In its third year, the RDX remains a wonderfully designed product that competes well with newer crossover SUVs such as the Audi Q5, Infiniti EX35, and Mercedes-Benz GLK. You wonder why it took other automakers so long to introduce RDX's competitive models.

It's comfortable and functional, aside from a dashboard that can be a bit overwhelming, with thoughtful storage spaces and Acura's typically excellent attention to detail. Throw in Acura's superb Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive, and there's a lot to be said for the RDX.

So, if you're looking for a sporty and exciting luxury SUV, then you were probably sold after you read about this SUV with a turbocharged engine. Regardless of the engine, the RDX is one of the best performing, highest-value compact to mid-sized luxury SUV in the industry.

DESIGN

Though it's loosely based on the consumer-oriented Honda CR-V, the RDX employs a separate platform designed specifically to accommodate the SH-AWD system and looks completely different.

The RDX's exterior design took Acura in a bolder direction that has since been built upon by the larger MDX SUV, as well as the TSX and TL sedans. It looks tough - not a normal Acura design trait - with chiselled edges and subtle, muscular bulges.

Serving as a cold-air intake for the turbocharger's intercooler, the front grille has four raised edges bracketing the Acura emblem that diffuse air and give the RDX an almost predatory expression. As good as it looks, the only downside is that it does look a bit generic.

The best thing about the interior is the balance it strikes between being a car and an SUV. The RDX isn't particularly tall, as crossovers go, but the tall seating position and low, angular dashboard provide a feeling of openness and great visibility.

It looks great inside.

PERFORMANCE

The RDX's turbocharged and intercooled 2.3L inline-four produces 240-hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and is connected to a five-speed automatic with paddle shifters. It enables the RDX to leap from a standing start, but might be a little high strung for those who are used to softer-feel V6s.

The SH-AWD system, first seen on the RL sedan, splits torque both front and rear and left to right, to provide maximum control. Take a hard corner on a wet street, and SH-AWD will put push up to 70 per cent of torque to the outboard rear wheel. Cruise down the highway and the system will direct 90 per cent of power to the front wheels for maximum efficiency.

Beyond improving traction in bad weather, SH-AWD contributes significantly to the RDX's overall performance, lending itself to crisp and sharp turns. The RDX is simply a real joy to drive.

Ride quality leans toward the firm and sporty suspension of a sports sedan as opposed to the softer setups commonly associated with SUV's. You will never believe that you're driving an SUV.

ENVIRONMENT

Every spare inch of space in the RDX seems to have been turned into useful storage space. The centre-console storage looks deep, and then you realize the floor is hinged: open it and the space doubles to swallow a briefcase or laptop computer. It's also lockable.

The comfortable front seats are sporty, with lots of side bolstering to keep occupants in place through tight corners. The rear seats also provide decent legroom.

Controls are easy to use, but the numerous switches and buttons mounted low on the dashboard will take getting used to. To make up for it, Acura has equipped the steering wheel with at least 13 different controls.

The cargo area is exactly what every owner wants to see:tall, flat, the wheel wells don't cut into the usable space, and the opening is nearly square for easy loading and unloading. The cargo cover serves as a shelf and fits into the floor, to fit taller items in the RDX.

FEATURES

The RDX sells for $41,400, rising to $45,100 with the optional Tech Package.

Standard equipment includes ABS, traction control, cruise control, fog lamps, Xenon headlamps, dual-zone air conditioning, power windows, remote keyless entry, tilt/telescope steering, seven-speaker stereo with six-disc

CD/MP3/WMA changer and auxiliary input jack, tire-pressure monitoring system, moonroof, heated front seats, and front/side/side-curtain airbags.

The Technology Package adds a navigation system with voice recognition and off-road tracking, rearview camera, Bluetooth, and a 10-speaker stereo system with DVD-Audio.

Fuel economy is rated at 12.5L/100km in the city and 9.3L/100km on the highway, and the RDX requires premium fuel. Of course, there are some great incentives currently available to make this purchase even more appealing.

COMPETITORS

Audi Q5

For a price of $43,400, the Q5 comes with a 3.2L V6 generating 270-hp and 243 lb-ft of torque, as well as Audi's renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a Tiptronic six-speed automatic.

Audi's new SUV benefits from the automaker's decades of experience with all-wheel-drive vehicles, but it lacks the standout appeal of some of its competitors. It is bigger than the RDX.

Infiniti EX35

Starting at $40,900, the EX35 is powered by a 3.5L V6 with 297-hp and 253 lb-ft of torque, and comes with a five-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive.

Based upon the G sedan platform, the EX35 is a true crossover with a low profile and a sporty demeanour, offering a more car-like feel than its taller and boxier competitors. It is softer in feel than the RDX.

Mercedes-Benz GLK

For $41,800, the GLK comes with a 3.5L V6 generating 268-hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and Mercedes-Benz's awesome 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission.

The only thing missing from the stunningly attractive and well-equipped GLK is a diesel engine, which is available in Europe but not in North America. It is firmer and more European than the RDX.