2023 Acura RDX vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Acura RDX was known for its sharp, angular style, which, while distinctive, did not make it stand out dramatically from its competitors. The front featured the signature Acura grille, which, after years of evolution, seemed to be showing its age and was perhaps due for a refresh. The sleek wraparound headlights and deep creases in the bodywork and hood gave the RDX a sporty and aggressive appearance. The side profile was marked by a distinctive character line that suggested forward movement, even when stationary. However, the rear design was more conventional, resembling many other small SUVs. Inside, the RDX opted for a vertical dashboard layout, with a center stack of controls flowing into the center console, dominated by 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 glass cockpit designs.

The 2024 Volvo XC90, available in B5, B6, and Recharge T8 model series, offered a blend of practicality, safety, and sustainability. The XC90 B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8, a plug-in hybrid, provided the most performance and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. The XC90's exterior paint palette was subdued and earthy, aligning with its luxury SUV status. The interior, though dated, was fitted with rich materials, especially in the Ultimate trim, offering options like wool-blend upholstery or ventilated Nappa leather. The Orrefors crystal shift knob and natural wood trim added a touch of class. Volvo allowed buyers to mix and match paint, wheels, and upholstery, catering to individual preferences.

The 2023 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive as standard and Acura's "super-handling all-wheel drive" (SH-AWD) available on all models. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, offering immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine sound. The transmission was adept at selecting the correct gear, and the brake pedal provided reassuring firmness. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and abundant traction from the advanced AWD system. It offered a sporty cornering experience without compromising ride comfort, smoothing over road imperfections with ease.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with the B6 model’s supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. The battery allowed for 32 miles of electric-only driving, with an average of 27 mpg in hybrid mode. In Power mode, the XC90 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds. Recharging was straightforward, with options to plug into a standard outlet or a 240-volt outlet for faster charging. The XC90 offered multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. However, the XC90's handling was more luxury-oriented than performance-focused, with a firm ride on irregular pavement and less-than-ideal suspension for spirited driving.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample space in the front seats, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in top trims. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The large panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's sense of space. Cargo space was generous, with up to 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 79.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The RDX offered various storage options for smaller items, though the center stack's design could be more space-efficient.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in Core trim, was well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims offered additional features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, and an integrated booster child seat. The XC90 seated seven, with a comfortable second-row bench and a more accommodating third row than expected. Interior storage was adequate, and with the third-row seat folded, the XC90 offered up to 65.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a touchpad infotainment controller, which, while better than Lexus' previous attempts, was still challenging to use, especially while driving. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto improved the experience by allowing easier navigation. The system offered sharp graphics, quick responses, and logically arranged menus. Standard features included a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app, with options for premium audio systems.

The 2024 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system used Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were also standard. The XC90 offered a choice between a 14-speaker Harman Kardon system or a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a stereo volume knob and radio tuning buttons. The XC90 also included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional head-up display and surround-view camera.

The 2023 Acura RDX received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The Technology package added parking sensors, while the Advance package included a surround-view camera and head-up display. The adaptive cruise control was smooth, though the lane-keep assist was better suited for straight highways.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was synonymous with safety, earning five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. While the XC90's ADAS features were not particularly innovative, it included Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist. However, Pilot Assist struggled with certain road conditions and made a significant error during testing, affecting confidence in the system.