2023 Acura RDX vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX was available in several trims, including the base 350, F Sport, and L for its gas powertrain, with a hybrid model known as the RX 450h. The RX 350 and F Sport seated five, while the L trim offered a three-row, 7-passenger configuration. The design, which had been refreshed in 2020, maintained a modern and sporty appearance, standing out with its aggressive styling among competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X5. The RX's exterior featured sharp character lines and angular elements, particularly in the front and rear, creating a striking yet balanced design. The F Sport trim, known for its performance-oriented look, included 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia, enhancing its athletic appeal.

Inside, the RX continued the luxury theme with a variety of color combinations and materials, such as NuLuxe synthetic leather and Scored Aluminum in the F Sport models. Despite the high-quality feel of the cabin, the center stack felt somewhat dated, with an abundance of buttons and a design that hadn't been significantly updated in years. Comfort was a mixed bag, with the NuLuxe seats in the F Sport trim lacking cushioning and lumbar support. The limited-edition Black Line trim offered a high-end look with exclusive features, appealing to those prioritizing aesthetics over handling.

The 2023 Acura RDX was noted for its sharp, angular style, though it remained conventional enough to blend in with other small SUVs. The signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights, gave the front a sporty and aggressive look, while the side featured a distinctive character line suggesting forward movement. The rear, however, was more conventional in styling. Inside, the RDX took a different approach with a vertical dashboard layout, emphasizing performance with gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. The interior, while not as modern as some rivals, offered a familiar feel for those averse to the latest digital cockpits.

The RDX's cabin was designed with practicality in mind, featuring a 10.2-inch infotainment display and a mix of digital and analog gauges. While the interior design felt somewhat dated, it was updated with newer tech features. The RDX's interior space was enhanced by a large panoramic sunroof, creating an open and airy feel. Despite some room for improvement, such as the space-consuming center stack, the RDX offered a comfortable and spacious environment for both front and rear passengers.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with two electric motors for a total of 308 horsepower. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard on the RX 350 and all-wheel drive available. The hybrid RX came exclusively with all-wheel drive. Despite the F Sport designation, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with an engine note more akin to a turbocharged four-cylinder and lackluster acceleration. The F Sport Handling package added features like an adaptive variable suspension and sport steering, but the driving experience remained largely unchanged between drive modes.

The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections with ease. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was estimated at 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined, with slight variations for AWD and L models. The RX 450h hybrid offered better efficiency, with 30 mpg combined, 31 mpg city, and 28 mpg highway.

The 2023 Acura RDX was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with Acura's "super-handling all-wheel drive" (SH-AWD) available on all models and standard on top trims. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, offering immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine sound. The transmission was praised for its gear selection, and the brake pedal provided a firm, reassuring feel.

The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and ample traction from the advanced AWD system. It cornered with a sporty demeanor while maintaining ride comfort, smoothing over road imperfections with ease. The RDX's performance, combined with its easy-to-drive nature and comfortable ride, made it an attractive option for many shoppers.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 99.8 cubic feet of passenger volume in its standard two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults, with a snug fit for five. Front headroom measured 39.4 inches, with 39.1 inches in the rear, and legroom was ample at 44.1 inches in the front and 38.0 inches in the back. The three-row L models shared the same wheelbase, resulting in limited space for the third row. Cargo space in the standard RX was 16.0 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 32.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The L models offered 7.45 cubic feet with all seats up, increasing to 58.48 cubic feet with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample space for taller adults in the front seats, with additional power adjustments in top trims. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The cabin's sense of space was enhanced by a large panoramic sunroof. Cargo space behind the rear seats was 31.1 cubic feet, larger than most competitors, with a deep bin under the cargo floor for additional storage. Folding the rear seats expanded capacity to 79.8 cubic feet, with remote seatback levers for easy transformation. The RDX offered various storage options for smaller items, though the center stack's design could be more space-efficient.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display as standard, with a 12.3-inch version available. Despite being moved closer to the driver in a previous refresh, the screen's positioning was still ergonomically challenging. The infotainment system was responsive but hindered by a frustrating touchpad controller. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Additional amenities included premium audio systems, navigation, and heated and ventilated seats.

The 2023 Acura RDX utilized a touchpad infotainment controller, which, while better than Lexus', was still challenging to use. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen, but the system improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The RDX's infotainment system featured sharp graphics and quick responses, with standard Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. Premium audio options included a 16-speaker ELS system in top trims.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+ as standard, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and more. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional headlights and received four stars overall from the NHTSA.

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+ with "good" ratings across the board. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Technology package added parking sensors, while the Advance package included a surround-view camera and head-up display.