Shopping For An Acura RDX? Here's What Experts Say You Should Look At Instead

The Acura RDX has evolved

The Acura RDX debuted in 2007 and has evolved throughout the years to keep up with automotive trends. Now in its third generation, it is sharper than ever with its aggressive styling inside and out, turbocharged engine, and all-wheel-drive configuration. While its current design is a little long in the tooth, the RDX continues to be a wild-card alternative in the luxury SUV segment. 

The Acura RDX may not be as prestigious as some of its German rivals, but it presents buyers with a good deal. Starting at under $45,000, the RDX comes well-equipped with a 272-horsepower, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine that’s mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive, or “Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive” in Acura’s language. The RDX is also fitted with all the tech-savvy features a driver could want.

Some of those include a large 10.2-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. There’s also an optional technology package that adds onboard navigation, rear-seat USB ports, and a 12-speaker ELS audio system. Beyond its technology, the RDX also has plenty of cabin space with its 104 cubic feet of passenger volume and 29.5 cubic feet of storage space in the cargo area. 

In terms of driving dynamics, every trim level feels sporty with its sharp steering, responsive engine, and adjustable suspension. Just to note, every trim level feels the same as they come with the same drivetrain, but the A-Spec and A-Spec Advance models are fitted with a sportier appearance package and a few more lighting options. Needless to say, the RDX is stacked with equipment and exceptional driving characteristics, given its low price of entry. 

However, other entrants in the same segment could offer buyers more of what they are looking for. Although these options may carry a higher price tag, they may provide a few more features than the Acura RDX.

Lexus RX

The Lexus RX has been a staple in the luxury SUV category since its inception in 1998. Since then, Lexus has managed to sell hundreds of thousands of RX units every year worldwide, and sales growth will likely continue. What makes the RX so great is its balance of luxury, comfort, and practicality. However, it does cost a little more than the RDX, with its starting price of $50,475, which can easily top out at over $70,000.

Inside, the Lexus RX is adorned in leather upholstery and comes equipped with plenty of tech features, including a large infotainment display, wireless smartphone integration, a head-up display, and an optional Mark Levinson sound system. The RX also comfortably fits up to five adults and has plenty of cargo capacity. Its cargo area measures 29.6 cubic feet, which is a little larger than the one found in the RDX. 

Under the RX’s hood is a standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque and can achieve up to 29 mpg on the highway. A more powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain is available, which consists of a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine paired with a hybrid motor for a power output of 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque. That combination can yield up to 36 mpg combined. 

For more power, an even more powerful hybrid model is available with 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque on tap. Regardless of which Lexus RX trim level you choose, there is no doubt that you will have enough power. The hybrid powertrains are also an option that the Acura RDX does not have, so if your daily commute necessitates a lot of stop-and-go driving, the RX hybrid could be a better option.

Genesis GV70

The Genesis GV70 is an interesting option in the luxury SUV segment. Its unique styling cues, powerful engine choices, and robust list of standard and available features make it unconventional but welcome, nonetheless. The GV70 also starts at around $46,000, making it highly competitive with the RDX. 

However, the GV70 offers many features with a similar pricing structure. Some of its more notable features include leather upholstery, heated seats and steering wheel, a panoramic moonroof, a surround-view monitor, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a Lexicon premium sound system. It also offers room for five, with 103.6 cubic feet of passenger volume and 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space.

As for its powertrains, the Genesis GV70 comes standard with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. If more power is needed, the higher GV70 trim levels are equipped with a larger twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both powertrains are connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive.

Ultimately, the Genesis GV70 is a hidden gem in the luxury SUV space. If the Acura RDX doesn’t work for you, this unique entry might be a better fit.

Mercedes-Benz GLC

When it comes to the pinnacle of luxury, it’s hard to beat a Mercedes-Benz. The German automaker has been building some of the classiest and most premium vehicles in the market, and the GLC is no exception. The Mercedes-Benz GLC has a plush interior filled with lavish amenities, including a large infotainment screen, a digital instrument panel, smartphone connectivity, illuminated door sills, and a host of other tech features.

Its interior also has a lot of modern design touches and is a very comfortable place to spend time. However, the GLC doesn’t have as much power under the hood as the RDX. It’s powered by a 255-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter engine assisted by a 48-volt hybrid setup. The hybrid power assists with acceleration and fuel efficiency, as the GLC can get up to 26 mpg in combined driving.

If you don’t care as much about sporty driving dynamics and prefer the softness of premium materials and comfortable seating, the Mercedes-Benz GLC could be a better choice. It will just cost a little more, starting at around $50,000.

Final Thoughts

The Acura RDX is in need of a refresh, but it is still an excellent option for those in search of a luxury SUV with a tech-filled interior, spritely driving dynamics, and a stout engine. However, alternatives like the Lexus RX and Mercedes-Benz GLC can provide a more comfortable driving experience at a slightly elevated price. But if your budget is a little lower, the Genesis GV70 could win you over with its strong feature set and even stronger engine choices. 

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