2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially when outfitted with the A-Spec Package, exuded a strong sporty appeal without resorting to excessive blacked-out trims or traditional performance design hints. Its aesthetic changes were subtle yet effective, promising a sporty experience without overpromising on performance metrics like acceleration and handling. Notably, the RDX chose not to mimic the rugged off-road look, avoiding oversized skid plates, bulging fender flares, and other off-roading accessories. This design choice aligned perfectly with its positioning as a refined daily driver rather than a boulder-basher.

The RDX A-Spec, priced at $44,100, sat mid-range in the trim hierarchy. For a more luxurious experience, buyers could opt for the Advance Package, which totaled $46,000. Our test model, with additional features and the SH-AWD system, came to $47,625. Inside, the A-Spec added several sporty elements, including front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and a blend of dark brushed aluminum trims and red accents. The interior, with its high-quality materials and unique design, stood out among compact crossover SUVs. However, the gauge cluster's red-on-silver markings were a minor drawback since they were difficult to read during the daytime.

By contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 pursued a smoother, more refined design, diverging from heavily-creased hoods and angular taillights. Its sleek exterior appearance was accentuated in the top-tier Signature model, which combined Polymetal Gray paint, gloss black mirrors, and 19-inch black metallic wheels. Inside, the CX-5 Signature offered red leather seats with black honeycomb trim, and other luxurious touches such as Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim. These elements made a strong premium statement, rivaling brands like Buick and Infiniti.

Overall, while the Acura RDX projected a sportier and more aggressive look, the Mazda CX-5 emphasized elegance and a premium feel in its upper trims.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with a robust turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered the SH-AWD system for enhanced handling. The SH-AWD could deliver up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels, enhancing driving dynamics considerably. Drivers could select from four driving modes—Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+—through the Integrated Dynamics System, which adjusted the powertrain's response, steering effort, and suspension firmness (with the Advance Package). The A-Spec's 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires improved handling but could have benefitted from the Advance Package’s adaptive dampers.

In comparison, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission available in both FWD and AWD. For more spirited driving, higher trims like the Carbon Edition offered an optional 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine significantly enhanced the driving experience, making the CX-5 engaging in Sport mode. However, it fell slightly short of the RDX's balanced blend of performance and handling, and Mazda's fuel economy, while decent, wasn't class-leading.

The 2021 Acura RDX provided an impressive balance of interior space and utility. The RDX’s front seats were particularly comfortable, offering 12-way power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. Rear seat comfort, though, was compromised due to a low and flat rear cushion and too much recline, leading to a slouchy posture for rear passengers.

In terms of cargo space, the RDX offered 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. Additionally, convenient storage compartments under the cargo floor enhanced utility. Despite its competitive cargo volume, the underlying measurement methodology for maximum cargo space (79.8 cubic feet) suggested some room for interpretation compared to its competitors.

On the other hand, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 was designed to fulfill family needs in comfort and style. Its front and rear seats provided respectable headroom, but rear legroom was slightly limited, especially with taller front passengers. The CX-5 included two LATCH connections in the rear outboard seats, although they were somewhat hard to use.

For cargo space, the CX-5's 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded were below average for its class. Models like the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 offered almost 20 cubic feet more, making them more suitable for cargo-heavy requirements.

The RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) for its infotainment, relying on a touch-sensing pad rather than a touchscreen. While aiming to improve upon Lexus' system, TTI required a learning curve and remained somewhat distracting compared to standard touchscreens. Nevertheless, it incorporated useful tech features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D audio system, delivering excellent sound quality.

The Mazda CX-5 also came with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, but its operating system felt outdated and wasn't particularly user-friendly. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the infotainment system's positioning and control via a central knob complicated usability for shorter drivers. The general layout and design were practical, but the Mazda lagged behind the RDX in terms of contemporary design and intuitive functionality.

The 2021 Acura RDX was well-equipped with AcuraWatch, a suite of advanced 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 required upgrading to the Technology Package. Despite this, the RDX maintained high safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

In comparison, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted an extensive list of standard safety features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. Additional features like a head-up display and a surround-view camera system were available. The CX-5 also achieved top safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, its traffic sign recognition technology sometimes lagged or missed information.