2022 Lexus GX 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-road vehicle, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec trim 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 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition had a striking black-on-black appearance, eradicating almost all chrome from its exterior. Despite its modern touches, the GX's design remained reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002. The interior, however, showcased Lexus's legendary craftsmanship with high-quality materials and a quiet cabin. The GX's tall and narrow design made it easy to maneuver, but the slow steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the driving experience.

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 to upgrade to the SH-AWD system for improved handling. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, enhancing the driving experience. The A-Spec trim included 20-inch alloy wheels and performance all-season tires, but it lacked the adaptive dampers found in the Advance Package.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, the GX had a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. Despite its hefty curb weight and high drag coefficient, the GX managed a combined fuel economy of 16 mpg. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved ride stability, but the slow steering and touchy brake pedal made driving less enjoyable.

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 seat and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, with additional storage compartments under the cargo floor. However, the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system took up valuable storage space.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and clear visibility, but the narrow rear door openings made entering the back seats challenging. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, while the side-opening tailgate made loading difficult. Cargo capacity was limited to 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2021 Acura RDX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system required a learning curve, as it mirrored the screen rather than functioning like a traditional touchpad. While it offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, the system was still distracting to use. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, which provided excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface (RTI) touchpad. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, along with a CD player and a WiFi hotspot. However, the placement of the stereo controls below the off-roading controls was confusing. The voice recognition technology was quick and accurate, and the dual-screen view was a useful feature.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with AcuraWatch, a 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 stars for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2022 Lexus GX, despite its age, included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. It also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked some modern safety technologies found in competitors, such as lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving systems.