2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 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 frippery, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec trim, priced at $44,100, added sporty interior features like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges. However, the red markings on the gauge cluster were hard to read, except at night.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, priced at $42,083, looked like a typical rental car despite being fully loaded. It lacked the larger wheels found on the non-hybrid RAV4 Limited and didn't offer an Adventure trim level. However, the RAV4 Hybrid had a tough appearance, needing only bolder wheels to complete the look. Inside, it was stylish and practical, though the quality was hit-and-miss, with a mix of impressive materials and glossy hard plastic. A rattle from the license plate was a minor annoyance.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and front-wheel drive was standard, with the option for the SH-AWD system. This system improved handling by delivering up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes, adjusting powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec trim had exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and larger tires, enhancing its sporty feel.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine with front and rear electric motors, generating 219 horsepower. The hybrid powertrain provided standard AWD and several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, offering lively acceleration and an EPA-rated 40 mpg in combined driving. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. However, the all-season tires lacked grip, limiting the SUV's fun factor. The RAV4 Hybrid excelled as a daily driver, with a comfortable ride and decent off-road capability.

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 a low and flat cushion, resulting in a lack of leg support. Cargo volume was 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.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and decent rear-seat legroom. The rear seat cushion offered good leg support, and the backrest reclined slightly. The dashboard was well-organized, with large climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. The cargo area measured 37.5 cubic feet, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Storage was accommodating, with useful shelves and cupholders.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console. While an improvement over Lexus's approach, TTI 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 sounded terrific. Acura also offered smartphone projection, voice-recognition technology, and Key by Amazon In-Car Delivery.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered several infotainment systems, with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display. The top-shelf system included an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system, dynamic navigation, and voice recognition. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. Toyota also provided impressive camera-based technology, including a 360-degree surround-view camera system and a rearview camera mirror.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-departure 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 stars for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0), with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and road-sign recognition. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning were standard on all but the Hybrid LE trim. The RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.