2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Acura RDX presented subtle styling changes inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. These updates included modifications to the grille surround and front and rear bumper styling, along with new wheel designs and paint colors. The limited-production PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior, named after the Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio. The RDX lineup offered a range of models, from the base to the A-Spec Advance, with prices starting at $42,300. Our test vehicle, equipped with the A-Spec Advance package, showcased high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin, justifying its $53,645 price tag. Despite some design quirks, the RDX maintained a stylish edge over many competitors.

The 2023 Toyota Venza stood out in the midsize crossover SUV segment with its sleek and sculpted design, reminiscent of a Lexus. Its unique shape, with a tapering rear roofline, avoided the awkwardness seen in some coupe-like SUVs. The Venza's contoured body departed from typical Toyota designs, offering a harmonious blend of curves akin to a Mazda. Inside, the Venza borrowed elements from the RAV4 but elevated the cabin with nicer materials and details, approaching Lexus-level luxury. The Venza's attractive styling, both inside and out, made it one of the best-looking vehicles in Toyota's lineup, alongside the new Prius.

The 2022 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a lively driving experience, though fuel economy fell short of its EPA rating, averaging 20.6 mpg during testing. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard, and the RDX offered both front-wheel drive and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The SH-AWD system enhanced driving dynamics, especially on winding roads. The RDX's adaptive-damping suspension and Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered distinct driving modes, contributing to a smoother ride and greater responsiveness. Despite its enjoyable driving dynamics, the RDX didn't qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2023 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system, producing 219 horsepower. The hybrid setup included electric motor/generators and a nickel metal hydride battery pack, with a CVT sending power to the front wheels and an electric motor powering the rear wheels for AWD. The Venza's acceleration was smooth, reaching 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. Its ride favored comfort over sporty handling, with light steering effort and adequate maneuverability. The Venza's ride quality was smoother than the RAV4 Hybrid's but not as plush as a Lexus. Overall, the Venza prioritized easy and calm transportation over dynamic performance.

The 2022 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered ample room for four adults and their luggage, enhanced by a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior emphasized a sporty driving position, though the control layout required some acclimation. The RDX featured comfortable front seats with available ventilation, a thick-rimmed steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. However, the rear seats lacked support, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor. The RDX provided 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Toyota Venza's front seats offered generous space, complemented by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. The Star Gaze roof could turn opaque, adding a luxury touch. Visibility was generally good, though rear visibility was limited. The rear seats were spacious, with ample legroom and foot room. The Venza's cargo capacity was limited to 28.8 cubic feet, less than some competitors. However, it excelled in holding smaller personal items, with a wireless phone charger, well-sized cupholders, and large door pockets.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the TTI infotainment system, combining a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. While innovative, the system required a learning curve, as it differed from traditional touchscreens. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Three premium sound systems were available, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system offering 16 speakers. The RDX also featured a 10.5-inch head-up display in higher trims.

The 2023 Toyota Venza came with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad. The base LE trim had an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured a 12.3-inch display. The new infotainment system offered sharp graphics and quick responses. A Wi-Fi connection and remote vehicle monitoring were available, with the Limited trim offering Drive Connect services. The base audio system had six speakers, while a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system was available on higher trims.

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 and enhancements to the AcuraWatch suite, such as pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.

The 2023 Toyota Venza achieved five stars in overall and side crash protection from the NHTSA, with four stars in frontal and rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick, with "Good" ratings across most categories. The Venza came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added features like parking sensors and a surround-view camera system. The Venza's safety features functioned smoothly, with no false alarms reported.