2020 Acura RDX vs 2019 Toyota 4Runner

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner had a rugged and utilitarian design that matched its off-road capabilities. Unlike many modern SUVs that only looked tough, the 4Runner's aggressive front end, large tires, and flared fenders were functional, providing steep approach and departure angles for serious trail work. Trim levels ranged from the base SR5 to the off-road-focused TRD Pro, each offering a mix of rugged features and creature comforts. Inside, the 4Runner's cabin was dated but practical, with an 8-way power driver’s seat, cloth upholstery, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The SR5 Premium trim added heated seats and SofTex upholstery, while the TRD Off-Road trims included specialized off-road controls.

In contrast, the 2020 Acura RDX had a sleek and modern design that carried over from the 2019 model. Its beamy grille and rakish headlights gave it a striking appearance, while the large Acura logo added a touch of boldness. The interior was equally impressive, featuring eye-catching red leather upholstery in the test model, which contrasted nicely with the black interior. The RDX came well-equipped with synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a 10.2-inch infotainment screen. Higher trims like the A-Spec added ventilated front seats and a panoramic moonroof, while the Advance Package offered luxury features like heated rear seats and ambient cabin lighting.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produced 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, was more akin to a V8 in its characteristics, offering a robust and truck-like driving experience. The 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions, especially in the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims, which featured a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select system, and crawl control. However, its fuel economy was a downside, with 4WD models returning just 17 mpg city, 20 highway, and 18 combined.

The 2020 Acura RDX, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivered 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided strong acceleration and was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which contributed to both performance and fuel efficiency. The RDX offered multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport-Plus, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. Fuel economy was respectable, with SH-AWD models achieving 22 mpg city, 27 highway, and 24 combined. The RDX also excelled in handling, offering a comfortable yet sporty driving experience.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and practical interior, especially compared to off-road competitors like the Jeep Wrangler. It provided ample head- and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it comfortable for taller drivers. The cargo space was a standout feature, with nearly 90 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded, making it one of the most spacious in its class. The interior, though dated, was functional, with large knobs and a simple layout that catered to outdoor activities.

The 2020 Acura RDX pushed the boundaries of what a compact SUV could offer in terms of space. The cabin was roomy, with comfortable and supportive front seats that provided plenty of head- and legroom. The second row also offered good headroom and decent legroom, making it suitable for passengers. The RDX had 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The cargo area was easily accessible, and the load floor was at a convenient height. Additional storage solutions included a hidden cargo area beneath the load floor and various in-door cup holders.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner lagged in technology, lacking modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its infotainment system was basic but straightforward, with small fonts and a simple layout. The SR5 Premium trim included the upgraded Entune system with navigation and Siri Eyes Free, but overall, the tech offerings were minimal.

The 2020 Acura RDX, while visually impressive with its widescreen infotainment system, fell short in usability due to its True Touchpad Interface. This touchpad system was less intuitive than traditional touchscreens, making it cumbersome to use. However, the RDX did come standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims added features like the ELS premium audio system, navigation, and a head-up display, enhancing the overall tech experience despite the touchpad's shortcomings.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner came with basic safety features, including a full array of airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. However, it lacked modern driver-assistance features that were standard in many other vehicles. The 4Runner received a 4-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but only 3 stars in the rollover test.

The 2020 Acura RDX excelled in safety, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features as standard. These included lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera. The RDX received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.