2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 Ford Explorer

The 2021 Ford Explorer presented a classic approach to SUV design, reminiscent of Ford's historical branding strategy. Its exterior was appealing, with a sporty and distinctive look that set it apart from other brands. The Explorer offered a variety of trims, each with unique grille designs and features, ranging from the base model to the luxurious Platinum trim. Inside, the Explorer provided three rows of seating as standard, with a clean dashboard and an 8-inch LCD touchscreen. The XLT trim was particularly popular, offering enhanced features like a power front passenger seat and a 6.5-inch instrument panel screen.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updated grille surrounds and bumper designs. The RDX lineup included the base model and several option packages, with the PMC Edition standing out for its exclusive paint and interior. The A-Spec Advance package, tested for this comparison, boasted high-quality materials and a quieter interior. Despite some controversial design elements, the RDX maintained a stylish flair, offering a more refined and quieter ride than its predecessors.

The 2021 Ford Explorer, weighing in at 4,345 pounds at its lightest, was equipped with a base 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine outperformed some competitors, like the Kia Telluride, despite the Explorer's heavier weight. The Explorer's higher trims featured a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, with the sport-oriented ST trim offering 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer excelled in towing capacity, capable of towing between 5,000 and 5,600 pounds, depending on the configuration.

The 2022 Acura RDX came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a dynamic driving experience. The RDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, available on higher trims, enhanced its performance on winding roads. The RDX also featured a revised Integrated Dynamics System, offering distinct driving modes and a smoother ride. Despite its engaging driving dynamics, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2021 Ford Explorer offered seating for seven in the base model, with captain's chairs in higher trims reducing capacity to six. It provided 39 inches of legroom for second-row passengers, surpassing some competitors. With the third row in use, the Explorer offered 21 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 81 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, this cargo volume was comparable to smaller SUVs.

The 2022 Acura RDX, a compact SUV, provided ample space for four adults and their luggage, enhanced by a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface. The RDX's front seats were comfortable and supportive, while the rear seats lacked support. The RDX offered 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with additional hidden storage compartments beneath the load floor, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Ford Explorer's base trim included an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 4G WiFi hotspot, and Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system. Higher trims offered a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Explorer provided multiple USB ports and power outlets, with wireless charging available from the Limited trim upwards.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface, paired with a 10.2-inch display screen. Despite its complexity, the system offered a direct relationship between the touchpad and screen. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX's premium sound systems ranged from a nine-speaker setup to a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system, with a head-up display available on higher trims.

The 2021 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and an "Acceptable" rating for adaptive headlights. The Explorer's Ford Co-Pilot360 suite included features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered additional driver-assistance features through the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, aiming to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ rating. The RDX's AcuraWatch system added features like pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring. The NHTSA awarded the RDX a five-star overall crash-test rating, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.