2020 Acura RDX vs 2021 Ford Explorer

The 2020 Acura RDX retained its striking design from the previous year, featuring a bold grille and sleek headlights that made it one of the most attractive vehicles in its class. The oversized logo on the grille, while initially amusing, blended well with the overall design. The RDX's exterior was further enhanced by its dynamic character lines, which added a sporty flair. Inside, the RDX impressed with its sharp styling and eye-catching red leather upholstery, creating a striking red-and-black contrast. The cabin was well-equipped with standard features like synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a 10.2-inch infotainment screen. The RDX offered various packages, including the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance, each adding unique features and enhancements.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Explorer presented a family resemblance to other Ford SUVs, with a sporty exterior and distinctive grille options depending on the trim. The Explorer offered six trim levels, each improving in aesthetics and features as the price increased. Inside, the Explorer provided three rows of seating, with the base model accommodating seven passengers. The dashboard was clean and functional, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen and a rotary gearshift that maximized storage space. The XLT trim was the most popular, offering better equipment and finishes, while higher trims like the Limited and ST added leather upholstery and more advanced features.

The 2020 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine note. The power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, with options for front-wheel drive or Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD). The RDX featured an Integrated Dynamics System with drive modes like Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport-Plus, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. The RDX's fuel economy was respectable, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city, 27 highway, and 24 combined for the A-Spec model with SH-AWD. The RDX excelled in both acceleration and handling, offering a comfortable yet dynamic driving experience.

The 2021 Ford Explorer, weighing in at 4,345 pounds, offered a base 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer's 10-speed automatic transmission was standard across all trims. The Limited Hybrid trim increased power to 310 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque, while higher trims featured a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, delivering up to 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque in the Explorer ST. The Explorer prioritized towing capacity, with a range of 5,000 to 5,600 pounds depending on the configuration. While the Explorer offered engaging performance in the ST trim, it was more focused on utility and towing capabilities.

The 2020 Acura RDX pushed the boundaries of a compact SUV with its spacious cabin and comfortable front seats. It offered ample head- and legroom in both the front and second rows. The RDX provided practical storage solutions, including large door pockets, a pass-through cargo tray, and a fold-down center console in the second row. The cargo area offered 29.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down, making it competitive in its class.

The 2021 Ford Explorer offered seating for seven in the base trim, with captain's chairs in higher trims reducing capacity to six. The second row provided 39 inches of legroom, surpassing some competitors. The Explorer's cargo space was notable, with 21 cubic feet available even with the third row in use. However, the total cargo volume of 81 cubic feet with the rear seats folded was less impressive compared to some rivals.

The 2020 Acura RDX's infotainment system was a disappointment, relying on a touchpad interface that was less intuitive than competitors' systems. Despite the vivid widescreen display, the touchpad's lack of scrolling capability made it cumbersome to use. Standard tech features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 9-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added navigation and an ELS premium audio system, while the A-Spec offered an upgraded ELS Studio 3D sound system.

The 2021 Ford Explorer's base trim came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. The Limited trim upgraded to a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, with higher trims offering a 10.1-inch touchscreen and up to 14 speakers. The Explorer provided multiple USB ports and power points, with the ST trim including a 110-volt AC power outlet.

The 2020 Acura RDX came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, LATCH systems, and a rear-view camera. It also offered driver-assistance features like lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Technology Package added parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring, while the Advance Package included a 360-degree camera. The RDX received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2021 Ford Explorer was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, achieving top scores in crash tests. The Explorer's base trim included the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, featuring blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Limited trim and above offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist.