Lifted Acura RDX off road build on 30″ All Terrain Tires

If you’re a longtime fan of modified imports, particularly Hondas and Acuras, you’ll definitely appreciate the RDX because it embodies their best features in the form of a crossover. Even though it’s not a common platform for off-road-style modifications, a closer look reveals that it has a solid base of features to be one. With its sufficient ground clearance, large wheels, and SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive as the one on bigger Acura MDX model) system, the RDX could easily be called an off-road Type-R.

Of course, the RDX wasn’t designed for off-road use, but neither were the Macan, Tiguan, NX300, and other similar crossovers. Yet, this hasn’t stopped their owners from modifying them for off-roading and overlanding.

This means you can apply a similar approach to making your RDX more suitable for off-roading or simply make it stand out from the pack of performance-oriented projects style-wise. Besides, some RDX owners, have already done that and the vehicle we’re showcasing in this article is a perfect example.

The Off-road Build

Unlike the majority of Acura enthusiasts, the owner of this RDX decided not to go with the flow. Instead of lowering it, they chose to outfit it with off-road inspired upgrades.

Wheels

The focal point of every off-road build is certainly tires, and this RDX was no exception. The owner decided to swap out the factory road tires with something that would offer more traction on rough terrain and give that beefed-up AWD crossover look. Staying within factory specifications wasn’t an option, and the space in the wheel arches suggested that they could go a bit further with the tire size.

Even though there wasn’t much information available online about installing oversized wheels on the RDX, it didn’t stop the owner from exploring this uncharted route. As a result, he opted for 265/60R18 Yokohama Geolandar All Terrain tires. With 30.5″ overal wheel diameter, they are approximately 1.5″ larger and 0.5″ wider compared to the stock rubber, these tires improved the ground contact patch, contributed to the overall ground clearance improvement, and delivered that wide, beefy stance look.

Rims

If you’re into the street scene, you’ll definitely recognize the iconic Volk Racing TE37 rims that give a nod to the Acura’s sporty attitude. They are sized 18×9.5 with +45 offset and come in the iconic bronze finish.

A versatile Yakima LoadWarrior roof platform tops off this Acura RDX off-road build both literally and figuratively. It gives that adventure-ready look and serves as a functional accessory for occasional camping trips.

List of Mods

Wheels

• 18×9.5 +45 Volk Rays TE37 Saga Bronze rims

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Tires

• 265/60R18 Yokohama Geolandar Tires (31″)

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Exterior

• Yakima Lock and Load roof platform

Conclusion

This RDX off road build embodies the spirit of a lifted Type-R, striking a balance between awesome looks and sufficient performance for weekend adventures. With its off-road inspired upgrades, including larger all-terrain tires, iconic Volk Racing TE37 rims, and a versatile roof platform, this crossover is well-equipped for light trails and camping trips in style. While maintaining the sporty DNA of modified Hondas and Acuras, it breaks away from the typical lowered stance, instead embracing a more rugged, adventure-ready aesthetic.