2021 Audi Q5 vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a stylish SUV. Its subtle yet effective design changes conveyed sportiness without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided off-roading design cues, focusing instead on a sleek, daily-driving aesthetic. The A-Spec Package added sporty interior elements like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges, although the red-on-silver gauge markings were hard to read.

In contrast, the 2021 Audi Q5 maintained a classy, modern appearance with its expressive face, LED headlights, and bold taillights. The plug-in hybrid version featured S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, including standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 was packed with technology but retained an uncluttered look. The materials were high-quality, with real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was well-placed for driver visibility. The second row offered standard leather seating surfaces, making it a comfortable and stylish choice.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and front-wheel drive was standard, with the option to add the SH-AWD system for improved handling. 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 and performance all-season tires, enhancing handling. However, the lack of adaptive dampers and rev-matching in Sport+ mode were noted drawbacks.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 362 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed for a 0-60 mph time of 5.0 seconds and a fuel economy of 65 MPGe combined. The Q5 PHEV could drive up to 20 miles on electric power alone and offered modes to reserve battery power or drive in hybrid mode. The seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission and full-time Quattro all-wheel drive provided smooth and responsive handling. The Q5's suspension and braking systems were well-tuned for a balance of comfort and road feel.

The 2021 Acura RDX offered remarkable passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion, leading to a lack of leg support. Cargo space measured 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, with additional storage compartments under the cargo floor. Despite the official numbers, the trunk was accommodating and practical for daily use.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV managed to carry its battery pack without sacrificing cargo space, offering 25.1 cubic feet behind the second row and 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The second row provided reasonable legroom (37.8 inches) and ample headroom (37.7 inches) and shoulder room (56.5 inches). The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with a wide range of adjustments, heating, and ventilation in the Prestige trim. The interior featured smartly laid-out storage spaces, including cupholders, cubbies, and a center-console storage bin.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While this system mirrored the screen and was an improvement over similar systems from Lexus, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality. The RDX also offered smartphone projection, voice-recognition technology, and Key by Amazon In-Car Delivery.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV came with Audi’s latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was user-friendly and intuitive. The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster offered customizable views and elevated the cabin's tech feel. The Prestige Package included navigation, which worked with the hybrid system to optimize fuel consumption. The Integrated Toll Module (ITM) was a convenient feature for toll road users. The Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers was available on Premium Plus models and standard on the Prestige trim, providing excellent sound quality. Wireless Apple CarPlay was also included.

The 2021 Acura RDX came equipped with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including 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 earned a 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.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the gasoline-only Q5 received top ratings in most categories. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 Q5 gasoline model five stars, and similar ratings were expected for the PHEV. Safety features included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, Audi Pre Sense basic, low-speed collision assist, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. Available driver-assistance features included Audi Advanced Key, Audi Pre Sense rear, Audi Side Assist with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a top-view camera system.