2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered a diverse lineup with eight models, ranging from $33,745 to $54,495, excluding a $1,495 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline and luxurious King Ranch trims, and the new ST-Line added a sporty look to the XLT version. The King Ranch model, tested with 4WD, Rapid Red paint, a Premium Technology package, and a twin-panel sunroof, reached an MSRP of $59,880. Despite its high price, the King Ranch's visual differentiation was subtle, with unique emblems, shiny 20-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline, creating a taut, athletic appearance. Inside, the King Ranch boasted exclusive Del Rio leather seating with lasso-perforated inserts, though the cabin mixed quality and questionable materials.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround, bumpers, wheel designs, and paint colors. The limited-production PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included the base model and packages like Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance, with prices from $42,300 to $53,300, excluding a $1,045 destination charge. The A-Spec Advance package, tested with Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior, totaled $53,645. The RDX A-Spec Advance justified its cost with high-quality materials, solid build quality, and a quieter interior. While the new vertical air inlets on the front fascia were divisive, the RDX maintained a stylish edge over many rivals.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The base, XLT, ST-Line, Limited, and Timberline trims came with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and RWD, with 4WD available. This engine provided up to 24 mpg in combined driving and a towing capacity of 5,300 pounds. The hybrid drivetrain, available for the Limited and Platinum trims, combined a 3.3-liter V6 engine for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, achieving 27 mpg and towing up to 5,000 lbs. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, standard on ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 5,600 lbs with 21 mpg. The King Ranch 4WD test vehicle averaged 20.6 mpg. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and felt athletic in daily driving.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The RDX averaged 20.6 mpg, slightly below its EPA rating of 23 mpg. FWD was standard on base, Technology, and A-Spec packages, while the Advance and A-Spec Advance included Acura’s SH-AWD system, offering torque-vectoring capabilities. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) provided distinct driving modes, and the adaptive-damping suspension improved comfort and responsiveness. The RDX's quieter ride, thanks to sound control enhancements, made it a more appealing luxury SUV. Its driving dynamics, comfortable seats, and SH-AWD system made it enjoyable to drive, though it lacked the thrill of performance-focused rivals.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with a second-row bench seat allowing occasional seating for five. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. The King Ranch model featured triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and massaging front seats with 14-way power adjustment for the driver. The second-row seats were comfortable, but the third-row access was challenging for adults. Storage space was limited, with missed opportunities for additional compartments. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with rear seats folded.

The 2022 Acura RDX, though compact, offered ample room for four adults and luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior emphasized a sporty driving position, though the control layout required acclimation. The standard 12-way power-adjustable front seats were comfortable, with available ventilation and a heated steering wheel. The back seat, while flat for cargo purposes, lacked support for adults. The power liftgate opened to 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with hidden storage compartments beneath the load floor, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the back seat folded.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The larger screen appeared as an afterthought, while the smaller screen integrated well with the interior. The King Ranch model included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system's voice recognition was outdated, struggling with navigation and music requests. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0, with an optional rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2022 Acura RDX's TTI infotainment system paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller, requiring a learning curve. Despite its complexity, the system offered a direct relationship between touchpad and screen. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Standard features included satellite radio and AcuraLink services, with a navigation system starting with the Technology package. Three premium sound systems were available, with the ELS Studio 3D system offering 16 speakers in higher trims.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were incomplete. Standard safety features included Ford Co-Pilot360, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though steering wheel sensitivity was an issue.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, aiming to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ rating. New features included a rear seatbelt reminder and enhanced AcuraWatch systems, with pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring. The Technology package added parking sensors with low-speed automatic braking. The RDX earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover ratings.