2019 Acura RDX vs 2019 Volvo XC40

The 2019 Volvo XC40 was noted for its standout styling, borrowing elements from its larger sibling, the XC90, resulting in an upright appearance that set it apart from other subcompact SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and BMW X2. The XC40's SUV-based design provided an upright driving position with ample head- and legroom. It came in three trims: Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription, with the base Momentum trim offering features like 18-inch wheels, LED signature headlights, and a 9-inch Sensus touchscreen infotainment display. The R-Design added sporty elements like a unique front grille and dual-zone climate control, while the Inscription featured luxurious touches like a panoramic sunroof and driftwood door inlays.

The 2019 Acura RDX showcased a modern and sharp design, echoing elements from the larger Acura MDX. Its front end featured angular headlights and a broad grille, moving away from the previous awkward design. The RDX's more upright layout increased cabin space, and the A-Spec trim added dark accents for a sportier look. Inside, the RDX boasted soft-touch surfaces, unique stitching, and brushed aluminum accents. Standard features included 19-inch alloy wheels, a power panoramic moonroof, and a 10.2-inch HD monitor. The RDX offered three additional trim levels: Technology, A-Spec, and Advance, each adding more luxury and tech features.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It featured standard all-wheel drive, with power routed through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The XC40 offered a smooth driving experience with brisk acceleration, well-weighted steering, and responsive handling. It had a Drive Mode button with Comfort, Eco, Dynamic, Off-Road, and Individual modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. Fuel economy was estimated at 23 mpg city, 31 highway, and 26 combined, though observed fuel economy was 21 mpg.

The 2019 Acura RDX came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered front-wheel drive or Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The SH-AWD system provided torque-vectoring capabilities, enhancing performance in various driving conditions. The RDX's Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to switch between Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport+ modes, adjusting throttle response and steering feel. Fuel economy for the front-wheel drive version was 22 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 combined, with the AWD version slightly lower.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 made excellent use of its space, offering ample front-seat head- and legroom. It featured practical elements like a removable trash bin in the center console and a wireless charging pad. The backseat provided surprising legroom and smart storage solutions. The hands-free power liftgate worked efficiently, revealing a decent-size load floor with additional storage below. The XC40 offered 57.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down, making it one of the more spacious options in its class.

The 2019 Acura RDX provided 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, increasing to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample head- and legroom in both rows. The RDX featured a floating center stack design with additional storage below, along with a conventional center console and multiple storage options throughout the cabin. The rear seat included a center armrest with cupholders, enhancing passenger comfort.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 featured a large portrait-oriented touchscreen in the center of the dash, housing most vehicle controls. The Sensus system allowed for easy navigation through menus, though some functions like saving radio presets required additional steps. The system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the available Multimedia Package adding a navigation system and a 15-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

The 2019 Acura RDX came with the True Touchpad infotainment system, replacing the previous two-screen setup. The high-definition screen was visually appealing, but the touchpad interface had a steep learning curve. Changing radio stations and saving presets required multiple steps, though Apple CarPlay integration was available. The system aimed to improve user experience but still had room for refinement.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 emphasized safety with standard features like a full array of airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a City Safe automatic braking system. The optional Vision Package added blind-spot detection and cross-traffic alert, while the Advanced Package included a 360-degree camera and adaptive headlights. However, the XC40's design had some safety drawbacks, such as large C-pillars creating blind spots.

The 2019 Acura RDX included standard safety features like a reversing camera, tire pressure monitoring, and AcuraWatch driver-assistance systems. The Technology Package added parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring, while the Advance trim offered a head-up warning system. The RDX provided a comprehensive suite of safety features across its trims.