Acura RDX vs Lexus TX

The 2025 Acura RDX, positioned between the smaller ADX and the larger MDX, offered a range of packages such as Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance, replacing traditional trim levels. It featured a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive, with prices ranging from $44,700 to $52,450, excluding a $1,350 destination charge. The A-Spec Advance test vehicle, priced at $56,400, showcased a refreshed design with a frameless grille, new wheel designs, and paint colors like Sonic Silver and Urban Gray Pearl. The A-Spec Advance model boasted a sportier look with gloss black accents and a finned rear diffuser, complemented by full leather upholstery and a panoramic glass sunroof.

The RDX's interior was adorned with ambient lighting and premium materials, including soft leather, simulated suede, and brushed aluminum accents. The A-Spec trim featured red-marked gauges on a silver background, which were harder to read in low-light conditions. The True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system was less desirable, but the vehicle offered plenty of intuitive buttons and switches. Despite some drawbacks, the RDX maintained a sense of quality throughout, especially in the rear seats and cargo area.

The 2026 Lexus TX, available in various trims depending on the powertrain, included the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ featured a standard panoramic glass roof and new Matador Red Mica paint. Most models had 20-inch wheels, while the 550h+ sported 22-inch wheels. The large grille retained the spindle shape, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting. The interior offered two color options, with the PHEV adding a dark brown Peppercorn. Ambient lighting and suede trim enhanced the cabin, but material quality fell short of luxury standards.

Lexus redesigned the door handles, opting for pressure-reactive handles outside and push handles inside. While not a deal-breaker, more attention to cabin detail was desired. The TX's interior featured multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. The second row had a one-touch button for easy third-row access, but folding the second row flat was complicated. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX offered excellent cargo space, with up to 97 cubic feet available when the second and third rows were folded.

The 2025 Acura RDX was powered by 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 modes, adjusting powertrain response and steering effort. The A-Spec Advance trim featured an adaptive-damping suspension that matched ride compliance with the chosen IDS setting.

Despite lively performance, the RDX's fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA rating of 23 mpg in combined driving. During testing, it averaged 19.3 mpg in mountainous terrain. The RDX's driving dynamics improved over time, with crisp and responsive steering, authoritative brakes, and a comfortable adaptive damping suspension. However, the lack of a configurable Individual mode limited customization. The A-Spec badge indicated sporty trim rather than performance, as the RDX struggled to deliver the thrill sought by driving enthusiasts.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system, while the base model offered 317 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine. The seven-kilowatt charger provided a full battery in under three hours. The TX offered various drive options, including electric-only, hybrid, and gas-only modes, with Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom drive modes. Sport mode increased throttle sensitivity but wasn't aggressive, as the TX 550h+ prioritized a quiet and smooth ride.

The TX's AWD system could distribute power between the front and rear wheels, with a Trail Mode for slippery surfaces. The suspension absorbed bumps and potholes, providing a comfortable ride. The brakes were firm and linear, making the TX ideal for long road trips. The 500h hybrid offered better handling with adaptive suspension and rear steering, despite being down 38 horsepower compared to the plug-in hybrid.

The 2025 Acura RDX A-Spec Advance trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, along with a heated steering wheel and outboard rear seats. The 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 RDX offered 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Three underfloor storage compartments provided additional space. The interior layout, comfort, and cargo space made the RDX practical for daily use, despite the compromised center console design due to the TTI infotainment system.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ featured standard luxury amenities, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. Each seat had a cupholder and USB-C port. The second row had a one-touch button for third-row access, but folding it flat was complicated. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support.

The TX offered excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet available with all seats in place, expanding to 57.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 97 cubic feet with the second row folded. The liftgate featured an available kick sensor for easy access. The TX could tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it versatile for various needs.

The 2025 Acura RDX featured a 10.2-inch display atop the dashboard, controlled by the TTI touchpad on the center console. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa Built-in, reducing the need for TTI interaction. The infotainment system included SiriusXM satellite radio, AcuraLink connected services, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a premium sound system with 16 speakers.

The 2026 Lexus TX had a 14-inch color touchscreen, but some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled volume and adaptive cruise control, but their multi-functionality and lack of labels were confusing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occurred. A subscription was required for in-dash navigation and other features.

The TX offered a clear back-up camera with an available bird’s-eye view and Advanced Park system for automated parking. The rear-camera mirror provided an unobstructed view. With seven USB ports and wireless charging, devices stayed charged. The second row had a 120-volt/1500-watt outlet for larger items.

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

The 2026 Lexus TX featured Safety System+ 3.0, with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane centering, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and Proactive Driving Assist. Adaptive cruise control worked well once set up. The TX 350 and 500h earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS rated the TX "Acceptable" for the small overlap front crash test and "Good" for the passenger side.