2023 Lexus RX vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a refined exterior with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. Despite offering more cargo space than the 2022 model, it appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang and softer design lines. The front featured a spindle-style grille integrated into the design, complemented by a modern mesh texture and elevated hood. The rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper, ensuring the RX remained recognizable yet fresh compared to its predecessor. Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. High-quality materials like NuLuxe artificial leather and real wood trims were available, enhancing the luxury feel. The RX 350 was offered in various trims, with pricing expected to remain close to the previous model's base price of just over $47,000.

The 2023 Acura RDX stood out with its sharp, angular style, though it remained conventional enough to blend in. The signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek headlights, gave the front a sporty look, while the side featured a distinctive character line suggesting forward movement. The rear was more conventional, resembling other small SUVs. Inside, the RDX opted for a vertical dashboard layout, with a center stack dominated by gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. The 10.2-inch infotainment display sat atop the dash, and the instrument panel combined digital and analog elements. While not as modern as some rivals, the RDX's interior offered familiarity for those averse to new glass cockpits.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During testing, the RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion over uneven surfaces, though it generally offered a smooth ride. The F Sport Handling trim, with its adaptive damping suspension, felt more secure, especially in Sport mode. Both models had 21-inch wheels and 235/50 all-season tires, with the F Sport Handling's suspension reducing unwanted motion. The RX 350 FWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, while the AWD version did so in 7.2 seconds. Fuel economy was expected to average 25 mpg for the FWD and 24 mpg for the AWD, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2023 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, offering immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine sound. The transmission efficiently selected gears, and the brake pedal provided firm, smooth stops. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and ample traction from the advanced AWD system. It cornered with a sporty feel while maintaining ride comfort, smoothing over road imperfections with ease.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling's sport seat bolsters providing extra support. The RX 350 Luxury featured premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The F Sport Handling had simulated leather seats and a sportier interior. Both models provided exceptional comfort, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. The RX offered improved cargo space, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 cubic feet with them folded, though still not generous for the segment.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample front seat space, with additional power adjustments in top trims. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults, though taller passengers might touch the headliner. The cabin felt open due to a large panoramic sunroof. Cargo space was 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 79.8 cubic feet with them folded. The RDX offered various storage options, though the center stack's design took up unnecessary space.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of touchscreen displays. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The system allowed user profiles and music streaming through embedded apps. While generally excellent, the system required switching between data panels, a step back from previous technology. The RX offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, digital instrumentation, and optional digital rearview mirror and key technology. A color head-up display was available, though visibility issues arose with polarized sunglasses.

The 2023 Acura RDX used a touchpad infotainment controller, which proved challenging to use, especially while driving. The system improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing easier operation. Despite the interface issues, the system featured sharp graphics and quick responses. The RDX came standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. Premium audio options included a 16-speaker ELS system in the top trim.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driving assistance systems. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Semi-autonomous technologies like Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were introduced, though some features had limitations. The system proved impressive but had issues with HUD visibility and curve-speed reduction technology.

The 2023 Acura RDX received top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, 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 systems generally worked well, though lane-keep assist was better suited for straight highways.