2021 Acura RDX vs 2021 BMW X5

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 making the RDX look like an off-roader, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec Package added sporty interior features like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges, although the red markings on a brushed silver background were hard to read.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X5 maintained the brand's signature look with its kidney grille and body shape, making it unmistakably a BMW. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and various trim options, including the sporty M Sport styling. Inside, the X5's design was consistent with other BMW models, featuring high-quality materials and a mix of leather and soft-touch surfaces. However, the abundance of black plastic could easily collect dust and fingerprints.

The 2021 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered an optional SH-AWD system, which significantly improved handling. The RDX featured an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, enhancing its driving experience. However, the A-Spec model lacked adaptive dampers, which could have improved its handling on uneven roads.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i had a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i featured a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 horsepower, while the X5 M offered up to 617 horsepower with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid achieved 389 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque, with up to 30 miles of all-electric range. However, the X5's steering and handling dynamics were not as engaging as other BMW models, and the vehicle's steering felt disconnected at higher speeds.

The 2021 Acura RDX offered remarkable passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, especially with the A-Spec trim's 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. However, the rear seats lacked leg support and had an uncomfortable recline angle. The RDX provided 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, with additional storage compartments under the cargo floor.

The 2021 BMW X5 made good use of its interior space, with comfortable seating for short trips. The front seats could feel hard after extended periods, but the rear seats were spacious enough for two adults. The X5's split liftgate and vehicle height adjustment button made loading cargo easier. Without the third row, the X5's cargo area was spacious, although the xDrive45e model offered slightly less space due to its battery.

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 it 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 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard features list included a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, five USB ports, navigation, HD Radio, satellite radio, automatic climate control, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, massaging seats, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2021 Acura RDX came standard 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 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 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, and lane departure warning. However, the adaptive cruise control system had issues reacting to stopped traffic and lane-keeping functionality was inconsistent. The X5 received Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.