2008 Acura RDX - Power Pages

Cons
Mid-range and top-end power gains do come at the cost of a fraction of a horsepower and lb-ft of torque pre-boost; a small price to pay, given its advantages.

Parts
Intake filter, tubing, heat shield, MAFS hardware, coupler, clamps

Tools
10mm socket, extension, and ratchet, flat and Phillips head screwdrivers

Installation Time
1 hour

Notes
If you ever wished for your K23A1's factory bypass valve and intake to be a little more audible, you'll be happy after installing this mod. Hearing our turbo spool under throttle and its boost reccirculate at let-off prompted ear-to-ear grins with every press of the 'go' pedal, and gave our RDX just enough bark to let the punk in the next lane know we mean business!

Pros
Reducing exhaust backpressure is crucial to freeing up power in turbocharged cars. But, in vehicles like the RDX, so is maintaining a subtle appearance and sound. No one wants to outfit their $30K luxury crossover with a raspy "fart can"; that's why the ATLP unit is an attractive addition. Mandrel-bent, 2.5-inch 439 stainless steel piping scavenges exhaust gas efficiently, resists corrosion and remains durable under high-heat duress, while proprietary heat resistant packing in straight-through silencers ensures years of quiet operation, and a polished 402 stainless muffler and dual four-inch tips give a more aggressive, yet mature finish.

Cons
Again, midrange and top-end power come at the cost of a few ponies down low, but with more than 10 whp and 11 lb-ft of torque throughout the powerband from below 4,500 rpm until redline, we consider this a non-issue.

Parts
Exhaust system, gaskets, hardware

Tools
14mm, 17mm sockets, ratchet and wrenches, WD-40, hanger removal tool

Installation Time
1 hour

Notes
Unlike a lot of popular modern-day platforms, the RDX's exhaust tract doesn't include a welded-in catalyst, which means upgrading the stock exhaust won't cost your street-legality. The RDX does use two separate catalysts, the lower of which-since it neither accommodate an O2 sensor, nor requires removal of the factory downpipe-can easily be removed through the use of an optional ATLP test-pipe; a good addition for any... um, off-highway event (wink, wink).

Conclusion
Weighing the pros and cons of modifying the RDX for power, we can only see reasons why doing so can be a good thing. After the addition of three reversible, bolt-on modifications, our RDX moves with the help of nearly 40 more horses and as many lb-ft of torque at the wheels, averages better fuel efficiency during the daily commute, and retains its upscale appeal. Keep reading 2NR as we continue to dig for the bottom line as to how much power this Honda dream engine is capable of.