2020 Acura RDX vs 2020 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Volvo XC90 showcased a pinnacle of modern Volvo design, proving that a large SUV could be as aesthetically pleasing as a sleek sedan. The R-Design trim added a blacked-out, honeycomb grille, black window surrounds, and striking 22-inch rims, enhancing its already handsome figure. The "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and curving LED taillights were distinctive Volvo features, while the Thunder Grey Metallic paint with a blue hue added a unique touch. Inside, the XC90 offered a luxurious experience with options like matte wood trim, wool fabric seats, and leather with aluminum or carbon-fiber trim. The seats were exceptionally comfortable, with power-adjustable thigh extensions and optional massage, making long journeys a pleasure. The interior was crafted with attention to detail, featuring rich leather, padded materials, and thoughtful touches like the Swedish flag tag and twist-action ignition knob.

The 2020 Acura RDX maintained its striking appearance from the previous year, with a bold grille and rakish headlights. The large logo on the grille, though comical, fit well within the overall design. The RDX's sharp styling extended into the cabin, where red leather upholstery created a strong contrast with the black interior. The RDX came well-equipped with features like synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a 10.2-inch infotainment screen. The A-Spec model added visual upgrades, including unique wheels and bumpers, while the Advance Package offered additional luxury features. The RDX's design was both sporty and sophisticated, appealing to those seeking a dynamic yet comfortable ride.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which felt insufficient for the vehicle's size. The T6, with a supercharger added, delivered 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, providing adequate power for highway driving. The Polestar tune further boosted the T6 to 330 hp and 325 lb-ft, but the XC90 still lacked linear acceleration and refinement. Fuel economy was unimpressive, with the T6 AWD rated at 18 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined. The T8 plug-in hybrid offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, but its added weight negated the performance benefits. The XC90 excelled in comfort and quietness, but it wasn't a sporty performer.

The 2020 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided impressive acceleration and a pleasing engine note. Power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, with available Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD). The RDX offered multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport-Plus, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. Fuel economy for the A-Spec model with SH-AWD was rated at 22 mpg city, 27 highway, and 24 combined. The RDX delivered solid acceleration and fantastic handling, making it a versatile choice for both city and highway driving.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 featured a refined Sensus infotainment system, which was faster and more responsive than previous versions. The system integrated climate controls within the touchscreen, with limited physical buttons on the dash. The XC90 offered a spacious cabin with seven seats as standard, including an integrated booster cushion for children. The first and second rows provided generous legroom and comfort, while the third row was best suited for small children. Cargo space was ample, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 Acura RDX pushed the boundaries of a compact SUV, offering a spacious and comfortable cabin. The front seats were supportive, with plenty of head- and legroom, while the second row also provided good space. The RDX featured practical storage solutions, including large door pockets and a pass-through cargo tray. Cargo space was competitive, with 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The load floor was easily accessible, and additional storage was available in a hidden cargo area.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 came standard with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system that combined adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The R-Design model featured a Bowers & Wilkins stereo with 19 speakers and 1,400 watts of power, delivering an exceptional audio experience. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was high-resolution and easy to navigate, though onboard apps were slow to load. The digital instrument panel offered limited customization compared to competitors.

The 2020 Acura RDX's infotainment system was a letdown, with a touchpad interface that was difficult to use. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the touchpad negated their simplicity. Standard tech features included Bluetooth, a WiFi hot spot, and a 9-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added navigation and an ELS premium audio system, while the A-Spec model featured the ELS Studio 3D sound system. The Advance Package included a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though its headlight test lowered its rating to a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its use of high-strength steels and innovative safety systems.

The 2020 Acura RDX came standard with a comprehensive suite of airbags and driver-assistance features, including lane-departure 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.