The prototype of what will be the successor to the model year 2007 hit the Acura RDX is put on display at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Back then the car had few rivals on the luxury compact crossover segment. The situation is a bit different now that other heavy names have joined the fray, like the Audi Q5, Infiniti EX35, Volvo XC60, Mercedes-Benz GLK or the Range Rover Evoque. A buyer interested in utility vehicles, with good on-road performances and sumptuous interiors have a lot of alternatives. So let’s see what Acura has in mind to sway customers.

First of all, it should be worth noting that although this is only a prototype, the company has confirmed the actual production will start somewhere in the spring of 2012. So, sometimes during the next months the 2013 Acura RDX will be seeing the asphalt and its first customers.

Now, let’s get started on the car that is on display in Detroit. Compared to what is out today, the new RDX seems to embrace more conservative design lines. The best indications of this are the peaceful “bottle-opener” grille, and the roofline that closely resembles the Honda CR-V.

The US fans of this car will probably disappointed, as the thing that set the RDX apart will be removed: the turbocharged engine is no more. In its stead, a new 3.5 liter V6 will be fitted along with a 6 speed transmission on the 2013 model. Some 273 horsepower are expected to be developed by the engine. There are also hints coming from Acura’s press releases that seem to indicate the all wheel drive will be abandoned as well. It is possible it will be replaced by something else that “provides the required performance and safety with increased efficiency.” Moving along, we find out the car’s fuel efficiency numbers are quite decent, standing at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

On the inside, we get the latest in infotainment and connectivity. Keyless entry, 3 view rear camera, integrated Pandora radio interface, and SMS capabilities and a few things to be expected in the new RDX. Furthermore, a Technology Package will bring together an updated version of the nav system, alongside 60 GB of storage space, voice recognition, real-time weather, and traffic with rerouting, plus maps. 15 GB are dedicated to music storage, so the playlist should be considerable.

More cargo and passenger space and a noise cancelation system can also be found on the inside. And the company promises even more luxury and comfort than we have been accustomed to all these years.

The 2013 Acura RDX will also be bigger; the wheelbase and track will see a few extra inches. The car will get Amplitude Reactive Dampers and a new motion adaptive electronic power system. A similar system is installed on the CV-R, but so far it has proven only that it needs a bit more work done to it in order to improve feedback.