2019 Acura RDX vs 2020 Acura MDX

In 2019, Acura gave the RDX a significant facelift, lifting cues from its larger sibling, the MDX. The refreshed RDX showcased a modern angular front end with aggressive headlights flanking a broad grille, moving away from the less popular “beak” grille of its predecessors. It adopted a more upright rear layout promising enhanced cabin space, whereas its streamlined silhouette presented a sporty aesthetic. The A-Spec trim further accentuated this look with dark accents reminiscent of luxurious brands like Porsche.

Inside the RDX, Acura prioritized meticulous attention to detail with soft-touch surfaces, distinctive stitching, and fetching suede inserts. The dash panel also featured suede, and the interior brightwork utilized actual brushed aluminum, providing an upscale vibe. The centerpiece was the redesigned center console, integrating Acura’s unique shifter and True Touchpad infotainment system.

On the other hand, the 2020 Acura MDX, though good-looking, didn’t push boundaries with its design. It maintained a sleek, low-slung appearance with LED Jewel Eye headlights adding a touch of sophistication. The MDX’s grille design and expressive front face gave it a solid presence, while its paint and chrome remained flawless, attesting to Acura’s quality.

The MDX's interior was simple yet modern, avoiding excessively padded and stitched surfaces common in luxury vehicles. The center stack was prominent with two infotainment screens—a high-mounted LED screen for navigation and a lower touchscreen for additional functions. The switches and knobs conveyed a sense of quality and durability.

The 2019 Acura RDX boasted a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel drive and an advanced Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The SH-AWD system could divert torque dynamically to enhance grip and agility, particularly effective in challenging conditions and during spirited drives.

Drivers could adjust the driving experience with the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) that tweaked throttle, shift mapping, steering, and traction control across Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport+ modes. The turbocharged engine impressed with its brisk acceleration, while adaptive dampers in the Advance trim maintained ride comfort and stability, achieving fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg city, 28 highway for FWD, and slightly lower for AWD.

Conversely, the 2020 MDX offered two powertrain options: a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque paired with a nine-speed automatic, and a Sport Hybrid variant combining a 3.0-liter V6 with three electric motors, delivering 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque through a seven-speed DCT.

The MDX demonstrated respectable straight-line performance, with the SH-AWD system enhancing cornering agility. Torque vectoring helped the vehicle maintain composure through turns and minimized understeer, making it adept for both swift maneuvers and routine driving. The independent suspension provided a comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively.

The 2019 RDX offered 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. This space rivaled competitors like the BMW X3 and outclassed models such as the Lexus NX. The cabin was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom across two rows, accommodating even taller passengers comfortably. Everyday storage solutions included multiple trays, cubbies, and a clever floating center stack design.

The 2020 MDX, optimized for family use, featured sliding and reclining second-row seats enhancing third-row access and providing flexible legroom distribution. With all seats in place, it offered 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row down, and a maximum of 90.9 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The MDX also included a variety of storage solutions, from a large glove box to a flexible center console and numerous cupholders, adapting well to family needs.

In terms of technology, the 2019 RDX introduced the True Touchpad infotainment system on a high-definition 10.2-inch screen. While visually impressive, the system's functionality had a steep learning curve, requiring familiarization for tasks like changing radio stations or setting presets. The integration with Apple CarPlay worked well, providing an alternative to navigating the touchpad.

The 2020 MDX streamlined its features into comprehensive packages. The base model was well-equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and multiple USB ports. The Technology Package added advanced features like navigation, GPS-linked climate control, and a premium audio system, while the Advance Package further included a vehicle surround-view camera, head-up warning, and heated and ventilated front seats.

The 2019 RDX came standard with a full suite of safety features, including a reversing camera, front and side impact airbags, and AcuraWatch driver-assistance systems. These systems comprised forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and a head-up warning system.

The 2020 MDX also boasted extensive safety measures, coming standard with AcuraWatch which featured adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Additional packages added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and advanced parking aids like a surround-view camera. The MDX’s sophisticated body structure enhanced crash safety, contributing to its high safety ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA.