2020 Acura RDX vs 2020 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Acura RDX maintained the visual appeal of its predecessor, boasting a sleek design characterized by a large, boldly styled grille and dynamic headlights, which combined to give it a modern and sporty appearance. The notably large Acura logo, situated within the grille, seemed comically oversized yet surprisingly fitting within the overall aesthetic. The RDX featured a striking character line that swept from the windshield to the rear, contributing to a sophisticated profile complemented by a stealthy spoiler-like detail created by intersecting lines at the rear.

Inside, the RDX was just as impressive, outfitted with eye-catching red leather upholstery limited to the seating, creating a vibrant contrast with the black interior elements. This design choice was reminiscent of luxury sports models and added a touch of exclusivity. Standard equipment was generous, inclusive of upscale touches like heated front seats and a large infotainment screen, leading comfortably into its higher trims which further enhanced both luxury and tech offerings.

On the other hand, the 2020 Honda CR-V showcased a more conservative design, aligning more with traditional family transportation paradigms. Its exterior was smooth, rounded off with a familial resemblance to Honda's sedans, making it approachable and relatable. The CR-V's interior, though, presented a mixed bag with a clash of high-quality leather in higher trims against more basic plastics that hinted at its economical leanings. This practical approach was reflected in its range of trim levels and straightforward pricing, catering to buyers seeking utility over luxury.

The RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering a robust 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This configuration not only facilitated brisk acceleration but also managed a commendable balance between performance and efficiency, especially with its 10-speed automatic transmission and multiple driving modes that tailored the SUV's dynamics to various conditions. The RDX's A-Spec variant, in particular, offered a more spirited driving experience, evidenced by its sport-tuned features and enhanced handling capabilities, despite its premium fuel requirement.

Conversely, the Honda CR-V saw a simplification in its engine offerings for 2020, standardizing a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine across all trims which produced a modest 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the CR-V was tuned for economy and ease, delivering a smooth, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. It excelled in fuel efficiency with leading EPA ratings, further complemented by its lightweight structure, which aided both performance and economy.

Spatially, the RDX defined a higher standard for compact SUVs, offering ample room and supportive seating, especially in the front row. The vehicle's interior was intelligently designed to maximize both passenger comfort and cargo utility, with 29.5 cubic feet of storage expanding to nearly 59 cubic feet with the rear seats down. Thoughtful internal configurations, like hidden compartments under the cargo floor, showcased Acura’s attention to practical luxury.

In terms of utility, the CR-V matched up well, offering a comparably spacious cabin and versatile cargo space that slightly edged out the RDX with up to 75.8 cubic feet. Honda’s design efficiently utilized the vehicle’s footprint, maximizing interior space without enlarging the vehicle’s external dimensions, a testament to Honda's expertise in ergonomic design.

Technology in the RDX, while advanced, proved slightly cumbersome due to its touchpad interface; a sharp contrast to its otherwise intuitive drive systems and premium audio offerings, particularly in higher trims. The fully-loaded configurations included notable enhancements like a head-up display and additional connectivity options, though the fundamental interaction with the infotainment system could detract from its usability.

The CR-V’s tech features appeared somewhat dated in comparison. Even in higher trims, the systems felt less integrated and more supplementary. Screen sizes and interfacing options lagged behind contemporaries, although standard provisions like smartphone integration and additional charging ports in higher trims met the basic needs of modern drivers.

Both vehicles were well-equipped in terms of safety, with the RDX featuring a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies as standard, which were further supplemented in higher trims. It received accolades from major safety rating organizations, reflecting its commitment to safety at all levels.

The CR-V also performed admirably in safety tests and offered robust standard safety features, including its Honda Sensing suite. However, distinctions in headlight quality and an active recall could be points of concern for potential buyers.