Acura->ke10 is still riding the wave of enthusiasm it created by introducing the 2016 Acura NSX, but while this sports car looks great on wallpaper backgrounds, video games and magazine covers, the automaker will need a lot more than a limited-production, halo performance car to keep up with its luxury rivals in other segments. That product could be a potential entry-level crossover slotting in beneath the RDX and based on the all-new 2016 Honda HR-V subcompact crossover.

In an interview with WardsAuto, Honda Executive Vice President John Mendel suggested that Acura is considering its own version of the small HR-V, but he didn’t exactly confirm the new model or provide any details. As more luxury automakers begin launching new compact and subcompact utility vehicles, a smaller Acura crossover would make a great one-two CUV punch alongside the popular Acura RDX, which is receiving a makeover for the Chicago Auto Show.->ke225

If this model comes, expect it to follow the same design language as the rest of Acura’s lineup, with the shield grille and narrow, jewel-eyed headlights, while wearing a new derivative of Acura’s _DX crossover nomenclature. As far as pricing goes, the new Acura crossover would definitely cost less than the $35,095 RDX, but competition includes the $31,200 BMW X1, the $32,500 Audi Q3 and the $33,300 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.

Click past the jump to read more about Acura's future crossover.

Why it matters

In 2014, Acura sold more crossovers than sedans -- more than 110,000 CUVs and around 57,000 sedans. Small premium utility vehicles seems to be one of the fastest-growing segments of the current market, so adding a new luxury crossover based on the upcoming Honda HR-V would likely be another hot seller for Acura. Additionally, such a new model would compete perfectly against the likes of the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, helping to improve its status as a global luxury brand.

Honda HR-V

Based on the Honda Fit, the 2016 Honda HR-V is a subcompact crossover that will go on sale this year to compete against rivals like the Jeep Renegade, Chevrolet Trax and Mazda CX-3. The HR-V was introduced last year at the LA Auto Show, and although pricing has not been announced, it will likely start under the $20,000 mark.