2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Acura RDX

Lexus refreshed the RX for the 2020 model year, giving it significant upgrades inside and out. The exterior featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to resemble other Lexus cars, and new paint colors, Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl, were introduced. The rear received a new shape with dual exhaust, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, along with an available hands-free tailgate. Inside, the cabin remained well-appointed with various interior colors and material combinations, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport appearance package added unique features like a special steering wheel, shift knob, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels, among others. Despite the dated look of the center stack, the RX's interior was functional and durable, suitable for family life.

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a stylish SUV with subtle yet effective design changes that conveyed sportiness without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided off-roading design cues, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping. The A-Spec Package added front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, dark brushed aluminum trim, and red ambient lighting, among other features. The interior delivered a sporty look and feel with quality materials and a thick-rimmed steering wheel. However, the gauge cluster with red markings on a brushed silver background was hard to read, except at night. The RDX's design was practical and appealing, making it a good-looking SUV without unnecessary frills.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 models were powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, achieving 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The three-row RX 350L models had slightly lower power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor for 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450hL had 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds for most models. Fuel economy varied, with the RX 350 achieving 23 mpg combined, the RX 350L and RX 350 AWD at 22 mpg combined, and the RX 450h AWD at 30 mpg combined. The F Sport models offered adaptive variable suspension and various drive modes, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The SH-AWD system, available for an additional cost, improved handling by delivering up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels and 100% of that to either rear wheel. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, adjusting powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec models had exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels with performance all-season tires, enhancing handling. Despite some body motion on rough roads, the RDX A-Spec was rewarding to drive, with precise steering, fade-resistant brakes, and a broad torque curve. The RDX's performance was engaging, making it a fun and capable SUV.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was functional but not as stylish as its German competitors. The two-row RX model comfortably seated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best for small children or pets. The cabin was spacious in the two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and decent visibility. However, the cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor compromising space. The RX 350L and 450hL also had less cargo space compared to competitors like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models and standard on long-wheelbase RX-L versions.

The 2021 Acura RDX offered remarkable passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV. The front seats were comfortable, with 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by the need to maximize utility, resulting in a lack of leg support and an uncomfortable recline angle. Storage space was limited, with a large but hard-to-access tray under the center console. The cargo area measured 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat, with additional storage compartments under the floor. Folding the rear seats provided 58.9 cubic feet of cargo space, competitive but not class-leading. Acura also quoted a maximum cargo volume of 79.8 cubic feet, though this measurement was based on moving the front seats all the way forward.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for the 2020 model. The standard 8.0-inch display and available 12.3-inch touchscreen were moved closer to the driver. Despite this, the system remained difficult to navigate, with a challenging interface and navigation system. However, standard Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and other integrations helped mitigate these issues. The touchpad system on the center console was improved but still not perfect. The RX also featured six USB ports, a standard 12-speaker audio system, and an available 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. The TTI mirrored the screen, making it easier to use once drivers adjusted to the system. However, it still required attention and could be distracting. The RDX offered physical knobs and buttons for stereo and climate controls, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home integration. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, providing excellent sound quality. Despite the TTI's learning curve, the RDX's technology offerings were comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2020 enhancements added daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX also included a three-year subscription to Lexus Enform Safety Connect and a 10-year subscription to Enform Service Connect. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.

The 2021 Acura RDX was equipped with AcuraWatch, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX's AcuraWatch systems were smooth and accurate, making them more likely to be used. The RDX earned a 2020 "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.