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Debuted at the North American International Auto Show and slated for a summer 2006 release, the Acura RDX showcased Acura's new 2.3L turbocharged i-VTEC four-cylinder engine. Although the unit shown in Detroit was a prototype, we believe the SUV is close enough to final production that the turbo engine will make it on to the streets intact. The first-ever forced induction Acura utilizes a variable flow turbocharger with a brand new all-aluminum block casting to pump out 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Connected to Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, the RDX is able to split power front to rear, as well as left to right. Previously used in the Acura RL, the SH-AWD is leaps and bounds better than the systems found in the Honda CR-V and Element, because this one actually does what you want it to. Now, if you're thinking that you want to do a swap and build a turbocharged SH-AWD 1991 Civic hatch out of a junkyard RDX, we think you'll be in for some serious work. The fabrication and work required would be massive, and the payout might not be exactly what you were hoping for. If you're really interested, we suggest you try and yank this motor, but make it front-wheel drive.Although we could not confirm if this new engine is a K-series derivative or a whole other variant, we're sure vendors such as Hasport will have swap kits available as soon as the RDX lands. The transverse layout and infamous cost-cutting parts bin swapping of OEM's would lead us to believe that this is a K friendly powerplant. This would be a massive relief for all tuners out there, because then you could source any TSX, RSX, or Civic Si gearbox to run your hybrid. And this is not even mentioning all the proven limited-slip differentials that are already available for those transmissions. As can be seen in our photos, the RDX uses a short plumbing, top-mount intercooler, MAF system, re-circulating bypass valve, and a return-less fueling system, for sure. Knowing Acura, the car was tuned the meet the response and driveability demands of older, richer drivers. By adding a good intake, exhaust, front-mount intercooler, and with some tuning of the ECU, this engine could put out some serious power. Check back with us in a few months as we attempt to crack this new turbo beast. www.acura.com