2021 Acura RDX vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Acura RDX, particularly when equipped with the A-Spec Package, stood out as a visually striking SUV. The A-Spec’s styling was sophisticated, offering a sporty aesthetic without overindulging in the typical performance design elements like blacked-out trim or exaggerated body modifications. This subtle yet impactful design approach effectively conveyed sportiness without overselling its capabilities in acceleration and handling. Acura maintained a clear distinction between the RDX and off-roaders. Unlike many crossovers, the RDX eschewed oversized skid plates and fender flares, emphasizing its primary role for daily commuting and road-tripping rather than off-roading. The A-Spec trim occupied a mid-level position in the RDX lineup, with the base model starting at $38,200. Adding a Technology Package bumped up the price to $41,100, while the A-Spec Package lifted it to $44,100. For all the bells and whistles, the Advance Package was available at $46,000. Opting for the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system added an additional $2,000. Our review unit, adorned in Platinum White paint, came with a total price of $47,625, factoring in the destination charge. The A-Spec interior boasted distinctive features such as front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, dark brushed aluminum trim, sport pedals, and unique red ambient lighting. The seating options included black or red, with a light gray option notably missing. The cockpit design aimed to deliver a sporty atmosphere, with high-quality materials and a steering wheel designed for a robust feel. However, the gauge cluster with red markings on a brushed silver background could be difficult to read, except during nighttime. Conversely, the 2022 Toyota RAV4, continuing its legacy since its North American debut in 1996, evolved from a compact alternative to become a staple in the crossover market. Over the years, it transcended the "cute-ute" category to emerge as a leader in the SUV market, especially in the U.S. While the original RAV4 was distinct in its early days, the 2022 model blended more with the prevalent crossover design trends. But a closer look revealed unique elements like angular wheel arches and curvaceous body-side bends. The expressive headlights, compact grille, and assertive lower fascia gave the RAV4 an aggressive yet playful demeanor. Toyota's hallmark fit and finish enhanced the overall exterior quality. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dashboard with varying textures and colors, centered around an intuitive center stack. The placement of the touchscreen allowed easy access for the driver, minimizing distraction. The interior design included circuit-board-inspired patterns recurring across various elements, giving a cohesive look from the seat inserts to the wheels of our Adventure-trim test vehicle.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque between 1,600 rpm and 4,500 rpm. This engine was standard across all RDX models, including the A-Spec, which didn’t offer additional performance enhancements. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters came standard, paired with front-wheel drive unless upgraded to the SH-AWD system, a worthwhile investment for improved handling. The SH-AWD could distribute up to 70% of the engine's power to the rear wheels, further allocating that power to either rear wheel, ensuring better handling dynamics. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to switch between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, adjusting powertrain responsiveness, steering effort, and suspension firmness where applicable. The RDX A-Spec came with 20-inch Shark Gray alloy wheels and 255/45 performance all-season tires, which contributed to its polished handling, albeit with a slightly firm ride. On the downside, the A-Spec’s suspension could use the adaptive dampers found in the Advance Package for a smoother ride on uneven roads. The A-Spec’s handling was commendable due to the turbo engine's torque, the SH-AWD system, precise steering, and robust brakes. Nevertheless, the lack of adaptive dampers and rev-matching for the automatic transmission's downshifts in Sport and Sport+ modes left room for improvement. In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a choice of three powertrains. The gasoline-only version featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine worked with an eight-speed automatic transmission and had both FWD and AWD options. Fuel economy ranged from 27-28 mpg city/35 mpg highway for FWD and slightly less for AWD models. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 217 combined net horsepower using an eCVT transmission. It boasted excellent fuel efficiency with 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway ratings. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, emerged as the performance-oriented model with a total of 302 horsepower and an AWD setup. It could travel up to 42 miles on electricity alone, achieving an impressive 94 MPGe combined. Its battery could recharge in times ranging from 12 hours on a standard outlet to just 2.5 hours with a high-capacity charger. Our review unit, an Adventure AWD, had a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that performed well for everyday driving and offered smooth power delivery. Its pairing with the eight-speed transmission provided responsive acceleration, and its car-like handling, aided by a sophisticated suspension system, ensured a composed ride in various driving conditions. AWD models featured Multi-Terrain Select for optimizing performance based on road conditions, with dynamic torque vectoring to enhance cornering. Fuel-saving rear-driveline disconnect also helped maximize efficiency during steady-speed cruising.

When comparing interior space, the 2021 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered substantial passenger and cargo space, positioning itself as a highly practical vehicle. The front seats were notably comfortable with multiple adjustments, heating, and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was somewhat compromised due to the design necessary to optimize cargo space when the seats were folded down. The Acura RDX claimed 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expanded to 58.9 cubic feet when folded—though not class-leading, it was quite functional. Additionally, a deep storage well and multiple compartments under the cargo floor provided significant organizational utility. However, Acura’s higher quoted figure of 79.8 cubic feet was based on an unrealistic loading method, diminishing its practical relevance. The 2022 Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, represented a significant evolution in dimensions and capacities over its generations. While still classified as a small SUV, it offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a maximum of 69.8 cubic feet when the seats were folded. Additionally, the RAV4’s payload capacity ranged from 1,050 to 1,230 pounds depending on configuration, which was noteworthy for a vehicle of its size. For towing, the RAV4’s capabilities varied, with up to 1,500 pounds for most trims and 3,500 pounds for Adventure and TRD Off-Road models. The Hybrid and Prime versions also offered commendable towing capacities of 1,750 and 2,500 pounds, respectively, making the RAV4 versatile for various utility needs. Inside, the RAV4 comfortably accommodated four adults and could fit five if necessary. The front row provided ample space, while the middle seat in the second row was less ideal but functional for short hauls. Storage solutions throughout the cabin ensured that items like pens, coins, and even tablets had a designated place, enhancing the overall practical appeal of the vehicle.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) for its infotainment system, replacing the typical touchscreen. The TTI system, similar to laptop touchpads, mirrored the screen’s sections to corresponding areas on the touchpad. This design aimed to reduce distraction but required a learning curve and was less intuitive for passengers unfamiliar with it. Although this system represented an improvement over Lexus’ earlier touch control approach, it still wasn't optimal for reducing driver distraction. On a positive note, the A-Spec trim featured an impressive 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system. Other tech inclusions were smartphone projection options and Amazon’s in-car delivery service. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a range of tech options across its trims. Base models featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay compatibility, as well as a six-speaker audio system and various connectivity features like Wi-Fi. Higher trims upgraded to a 9-inch infotainment screen and an 11-speaker JBL system with navigation. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced tech offerings, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and ambient interior lighting. Features like wireless smartphone charging, bird’s-eye view camera systems, and head-up displays added a touch of sophistication.

The 2021 Acura RDX was equipped with the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, offering 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. Despite these omissions, both IIHS and NHTSA rated the RDX highly, awarding it a Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating, respectively. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota’s Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as standard. This included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping systems. Higher trims benefited from blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic braking. The RAV4 earned top safety ratings as well. The RAV4 and RAV4 Prime achieved the IIHS Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ ratings, respectively, and both received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.