2022 Ford Explorer 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 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 2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch, while visually appealing, did not significantly differentiate itself from other Explorer models. Its rear-drive platform allowed for a long and tall hood, giving it an athletic appearance. Inside, the King Ranch featured exclusive Del Rio leather seating and a mix of quality and questionable materials. The Explorer's design aimed to balance a robust SUV feel with a touch of luxury, though it fell short in some areas.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured 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 Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which significantly improved handling. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, enhancing the driving experience. However, the A-Spec Package lacked adaptive dampers, which would have improved handling on uneven roads.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The base engine was a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid option combined a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, producing 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque. The top-tier engine was a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, available in ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trims. The Explorer King Ranch provided a robust driving experience, though it lacked the hybrid's efficiency.

The 2021 Acura RDX offered remarkable passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV. The front seats were comfortable and adjustable, but the rear seats lacked leg support and had an uncomfortable 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 cargo floor.

The 2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch provided ample comfort for families of four, with heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain’s chairs, and massaging front seats. However, the third-row seat was cramped and difficult for adults to access. Practical storage space was limited, but the hands-free power liftgate revealed 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad instead of a touchscreen. While it mirrored the screen for more intuitive control, 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 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of its Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The King Ranch trim included FordPass Connect services, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system's voice recognition was less reliable, and the larger screen felt like an afterthought. Ford needs to upgrade the Explorer to Sync 4 for better functionality.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, 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 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It came with Ford Co-Pilot360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety features operated smoothly, though the system occasionally over-braked in traffic.