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At first glance, the Acura RDX looks like a nice, moderate, car-based sports utility. But throw it hard into a curve and delightfully wretched excess emerges.

The temperate CUV shows its true colors when confronted with challenging roads. It dives into the 'twisties' headlong, cuts cleanly around the corners and emerges triumphant.

There's little lean and just enough under-steer (the tendency to go straight) to keep drivers honest. The ride is firm.

Contributing to the sporty handling is all-wheel drive and four-wheel independent suspension. Those wheels also are equipped with anti-lock brakes. There's vehicle stability assist to correct mistakes.

The 0-to-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds is moderate, but the RDX is frisky off the line to counter that sober time.

That time can be tweaked by using the shifter paddles on the steering wheel. They'll guide the five speed automatic transmission.

For those relying on the automatic side, the shifter doesn't inadvertently slide down from "Drive" to a lower gear anymore. That used to be caused by a lack of detent for "Drive." Acura engineers seem to have licked that long-standing Acura-Honda trait, which has been a problem.

Pulling nicely is the 2.3L four-cylinder engine. It's hyped to 240 horsepower by a variable-flow turbocharger. It virtually eliminates any lag between the pressing the gas pedal and the turbo winding up.

Fuel economy is 17 city and 22 highway. The RDX is no lightweight. It comes in at 3,932 pounds. RDX is 180.7 inches long on a 104.3-inch wheelbase.

The driving position is high, via sport seats rimmed with perforated leather. They're also heated. Power door mirrors also are heated and come with turn indicators.

With RDX then, a little moderation goes a long, and speedy, way.

Acura RDX •Engine: 2.3L turbocharger I-4 •Dimensions: 104.3" wheelbase; 180.7" length. •Base price: $36,695/tested $37,365.li> •Fuel economy: 17/22 mpg.