2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior that echoed the traditional SUV style, with boxy fender flares and chiseled taillights that set it apart from its predecessors and other compact crossovers. Despite its aggressive look, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which was shared with other Toyota models like the Camry, giving it a more conventional mechanical foundation. The RAV4 offered options like the Adventure model with a retro Ice Edge roof and the TRD Off-Road with matte black wheels and red interior accents, enhancing its adventurous appeal. Inside, the RAV4 featured functional touches like large rubberized knobs and SofTex upholstery, though it lacked real leather even in the highest trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX had subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround and bumper styling. The RDX lineup included the limited-production PMC Edition, which featured exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. The A-Spec Advance package, which was new for 2022, offered high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin, contributing to its premium feel. Despite some design quirks like the vertical air inlets, the RDX maintained a stylish edge over many competitors, with a focus on comfort and build quality.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. While the engine boasted impressive thermal efficiency and a high revving nature, the transmission's sluggishness and the steering's lack of feel detracted from the driving experience. The RAV4's off-road capabilities were enhanced in the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models, which featured a torque-vectoring rear axle and 8.6 inches of ground clearance, but its on-road dynamics remained ordinary.

The 2022 Acura RDX, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a lively driving experience. The RDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, available on higher trims, offered excellent torque distribution, enhancing cornering performance. The RDX also featured an Integrated Dynamics System with distinct driving modes and a re-tuned adaptive-damping suspension for improved ride comfort and responsiveness. Despite its engaging dynamics, the RDX fell short of earning Acura's Type S performance badge.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a spacious interior with good headroom and visibility, though legroom was slightly lacking compared to competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats were less so, with flat cushions. Cargo space was above average at 37.6 cubic feet, though not class-leading. The RAV4's interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but storage space was somewhat limited.

The 2022 Acura RDX provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The interior design emphasized a sporty driving position, though the control layout required some acclimation. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation, while the rear seats were less comfortable but offered a flat cargo load floor when folded. The RDX's cargo space measured 29.5 cubic feet, with additional hidden storage compartments.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen, with larger screens available on higher trims. The infotainment system was user-friendly but lacked advanced features like a head-up display, which was reserved for the RAV4 Prime.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller, known as the True Touchpad Interface (TTI). While the TTI required a learning curve, the RDX also offered Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX's audio options included a nine-speaker system, a 12-speaker ELS Studio system, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system. A 10.5-inch head-up display was available on higher trims.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Acura RDX aimed to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ rating with structural upgrades and new safety features like a rear seatbelt reminder. The standard AcuraWatch suite included pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offered parking sensors with low-speed automatic braking. The RDX received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.