Acura RDX vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2025 Acura RDX was positioned between the smaller ADX and the larger three-row MDX in Acura's lineup. It offered a base level of specification with optional packages like Technology, A-Spec, Advance, or A-Spec Advance, replacing traditional trim levels. Each RDX came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive, with prices ranging from $44,700 to $52,450, excluding a $1,350 destination charge. The A-Spec Advance test vehicle, with extra-cost paint, had an MSRP of $56,400, including destination. The RDX's styling had matured gracefully, with a frameless grille and new wheel designs. The A-Spec Advance model featured a sportier look with gloss black accents and a finned rear diffuser, paired with full leather upholstery. The interior boasted ambient lighting, premium materials, and a panoramic sunroof, though the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system was less desirable.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look, with slight styling changes making it resemble a conventional gas-powered car. It featured a single body style, straddling the line between a large hatchback and a subcompact SUV. The RS model added gloss black exterior trim for a touch of flair. Inside, the Bolt underwent a more dramatic makeover, with a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The push-button gear selector moved to the steering column, freeing up center console space. The cabin was dominated by hard plastic surfaces, reinforcing its budget feel, though elbow touch points had thin padding. The RS trim upgraded to Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching. Despite its econobox-like footprint, the Bolt prioritized utility and interior space, offering a flat floor and adequate headroom.

The 2025 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters directed power to all four wheels via Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, capable of sending up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel. The Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) allowed drivers to choose from Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Snow driving modes, with adaptive-damping suspension available on higher trims. The RDX's performance was lively, though fuel consumption increased with aggressive driving. The EPA rated it at 23 mpg combined, but real-world testing averaged 19.3 mpg. The RDX's driving dynamics were enjoyable, with crisp steering and responsive brakes, though it lacked the thrill of a true performance model.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt introduced a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and reliance on rare earth minerals. A motor from the Chevy Equinox EV provided 210 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels, with 0-60 mph times similar to the previous Bolt EV, in the low seven-second range. The Bolt's acceleration was quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs, with immediate pedal response. One-pedal driving was available, with medium or high brake regeneration levels. The ride was firm but not overly stiff, and road noise was more noticeable due to the absence of an internal combustion engine. The Bolt's low center of gravity contributed to its agility on curvy roads. The EPA estimated a range of 262 miles on a full charge, with a Tesla-derived NACS charge port standard on all models, and charging speed increased to 150 kW.

The 2025 Acura RDX, in A-Spec Advance trim, offered 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, along with a heated flat-bottom steering wheel and outboard rear seating positions. The interior featured soft or padded surfaces where arms or legs might contact. Front seats were exceptionally comfortable, though drivers with longer legs might desire denser padding on the center console sides. Rear seat comfort was less satisfactory due to a flat bottom cushion and excessive backrest recline angle. Storage space was generous, with oversized cupholders and a wireless charging pad. The power liftgate revealed 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Three underfloor storage compartments added versatility.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt offered an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants. Taller drivers might wish for more telescoping extension from the steering wheel. Rear seats were also upright, with plenty of headroom and adequate thigh support. The flat floor reduced the penalty for center-seat passengers. The Bolt provided 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, with a large bin underneath the floor for additional storage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor in its upper position. Up front, ample storage included a large bin with dividers, a big floor tray, and a deep center armrest bin, along with a rubberized wireless phone charger and additional dashboard pockets.

The 2025 Acura RDX featured a 10.2-inch display atop the dashboard, accessed via the TTI touchpad on the center console. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Alexa Built-in, with a stereo volume knob, radio tuning buttons, and separate climate controls. The infotainment system included SiriusXM satellite radio, AcuraLink connected services, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trims featured a navigation system and an Acura/ELS Studio premium sound system with 16 speakers, including four ceiling-mounted ones.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt came with an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, but some Android Auto features were integrated. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, a digital rear-view mirror, and a wireless charging pad. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with logical menus, sharp graphics, and quick responses. Separate physical climate controls reduced distraction, and the navigation system helped find charging stations en route. The Bolt also offered vehicle-to-load charging for backup power.

The 2025 Acura RDX came with the AcuraWatch safety package, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, lane-centering assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered low-speed front and rear braking and a surround-view camera system. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were not yet available, but it was expected to achieve high scores based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitors, and a safety alert seat. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, a digital rear-view mirror, and traffic-sign recognition. GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system was available for an additional cost.