2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model. These included updates to the grille surround, front and rear bumper styling, wheel designs, and paint colors. The limited-production PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. The PMC Edition, named after the Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, topped the lineup, which included the base model and various option packages. Prices ranged from $42,300 to $53,300, excluding a $1,045 destination charge. The A-Spec Advance package, new for 2022, offered high-quality interior materials, solid build quality, and a quieter cabin, though some design elements like the vertical air inlets were less appealing.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura RDX maintained its sharp, angular style but began to show its age, particularly in the grille design. The front featured sleek wraparound headlights and deep creases for a sporty look, while the side had a distinctive character line suggesting forward movement. The rear was more conventional, resembling other small SUVs. Inside, the RDX had a vertical cockpit layout with a center stack of controls flowing into the center console, emphasizing performance. The interior, though not as modern as some rivals, offered a familiar feel for those averse to new glass cockpits. However, those seeking the latest design trends might find it lacking.

The 2022 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque between 1,600 rpm and 4,500 rpm. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided an enjoyable driving experience, though heavy-footed drivers would find it challenging to achieve the EPA fuel economy rating of 23 mpg. The RDX averaged 20.6 mpg during testing. Front-wheel drive was standard on base, Technology, and A-Spec packages, while the Advance and A-Spec Advance packages included the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The SH-AWD system could deliver up to 70 percent of the engine’s power to a single rear wheel, enhancing cornering performance. The 2022 model also featured a revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and re-tuned adaptive-damping suspension for a smoother ride in Comfort mode and greater responsiveness in Sport mode. Despite these improvements, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, and driving enthusiasts might prefer German alternatives.

The 2023 Acura RDX retained the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with SH-AWD available on all models and standard on top trims. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, an average time for its class. The throttle response was immediate, and the turbo powertrain was adequate for most drivers. The transmission performed well, and the brake pedal was firm and easy to modulate. The RDX’s handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and abundant traction from the advanced AWD system. The ride comfort was excellent, smoothing over road imperfections and mid-corner bumps. The RDX's broad performance range and comfortable ride made it appealing to many shoppers.

The 2022 Acura RDX offered ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a dramatic IDS driving mode knob on the dashboard. However, the control layout required a learning curve, with transmission buttons and the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system control pad being unusual. The A-Spec, A-Spec Advance, and PMC Edition had metallic gauge faces with red markings that were hard to read in low light. The standard 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation. The back seat, though flat and lacking support, was suitable for children. The RDX had a standard power liftgate with available hands-free operation, revealing 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided generous front seat space with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in top trims. The seats were well-cushioned and comfortable for long drives, with effective heating and ventilation. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The large panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's open feel. The cargo area offered 31.1 cubic feet of space, slightly larger than competitors, with a deep bin under the floor featuring a center drain plug. Folding the rear seats expanded capacity to 79.8 cubic feet, with remote seatback levers for easy transformation. Front passengers had ample storage options, though the center stack's gear selector buttons and drive mode dial took up unnecessary space.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, pairing a 10.2-inch display screen with a sectioned touchpad controller. The touchpad's larger section corresponded to the larger screen portion, and the smaller section to the smaller screen portion. This system required a learning curve, as it introduced a direct one-to-one relationship between touchpad and screen locations. Despite its complexity, drivers could acclimate over time. The 2022 RDX also included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Standard features included satellite radio and AcuraLink connected services with a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Technology package added a navigation system, and higher trims featured a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system and a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2023 Acura RDX continued with the touchpad infotainment controller, which remained challenging to use, especially while driving. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen and was out of reach. The experience improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing for easier swiping across the touchpad. Despite its difficulties, the system had sharp graphics, quick responses, and logically arranged menus. The RDX came standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. The top A-Spec Advanced trim featured a 16-speaker ELS system with potent bass and clear high notes.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, aiming to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder system, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Technology package and higher trims added front and rear parking sensors with low-speed automatic braking. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems were mostly accurate but less refined than some rivals. The NHTSA awarded the 2022 RDX a five-star overall crash-test rating, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings, and five-star side-impact ratings.

The 2023 Acura RDX received five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side crash protection, and four stars for frontal and rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keep assist. The Technology package added front and rear parking sensors, while the Advance package included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. These systems worked well, with only occasional false warnings. The adaptive cruise control was smooth, but the lane-keep assist was better suited to straight highways.