2022 Acura RDX 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 making the RDX look like an off-roader, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec Package added sporty interior elements like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges, though the red markings on a brushed silver background were hard to read.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured minor styling updates inspired by the larger MDX model, including changes to the grille surround and bumper styling. New wheel designs and paint colors were also introduced. The limited-production PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. The A-Spec Advance package, new for 2022, offered high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin, though some design elements like the vertical air inlets were less appealing.

The 2021 Acura RDX was powered by 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 was standard, and the SH-AWD system was available for improved handling. 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 models featured exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, though they lacked the adaptive dampers found in the Advance Package.

The 2022 Acura RDX retained the same turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. The SH-AWD system was standard on the Advance and A-Spec Advance packages and optional on other trims. Acura revised the Integrated Dynamics System for 2022, offering more distinct driving modes and re-tuning the adaptive-damping suspension for a smoother ride in Comfort mode and greater responsiveness in Sport mode. The 2022 model also featured improved sound insulation for a quieter cabin. Despite these updates, the RDX still fell short of earning the Type S performance badge, with driving enthusiasts likely preferring German alternatives.

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, the rear seats were less comfortable due to a low and flat cushion and excessive recline angle. Cargo space measured 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, with additional storage compartments under the load floor.

The 2022 Acura RDX continued to offer ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a dramatic IDS knob on the dashboard. The control layout required some acclimation, particularly the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The front seats remained comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation and a new flat-bottom steering wheel. The rear seats were still flat and lacked support, though heated rear seat cushions were available. Cargo space remained the same at 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. The TTI mirrored the screen, requiring drivers to touch the pad in the corresponding location. While this approach was an improvement over Lexus's system, 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 sounded terrific.

The 2022 Acura RDX's TTI infotainment system paired a 10.2-inch display screen with a sectioned touchpad controller. The system required drivers to match finger location on the pad with the cursor location on the screen, which could be distracting. However, the 2022 model added Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX also featured three premium sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system available in higher trims.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with the AcuraWatch 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.

For 2022, Acura made structural upgrades to improve side-impact safety and added new safety features, including a rear seatbelt reminder system, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Technology package and higher trims included front and rear parking sensors with low-speed automatic braking. The 2022 RDX received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance and five-star side-impact ratings.