2020 Acura RDX vs 2020 Lexus RX

The 2020 Acura RDX retained its striking design from the previous year, featuring a bold grille and sleek headlights that made it one of the most attractive vehicles in its class. The oversized logo on the grille, while initially amusing, blended well with the overall design. The RDX's exterior was characterized by a distinctive upper character line and a large spoiler-like appearance, which added to its sporty look. Inside, the RDX impressed with its sharp styling and eye-catching red leather upholstery, creating a striking red-and-black contrast. The cabin was well-equipped with features like synthetic leather upholstery, a panoramic moonroof, and a 10.2-inch infotainment screen. The RDX offered various trims, including the performance-oriented A-Spec, which added unique wheels, ventilated front seats, and sport pedals.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus RX received a refresh that enhanced its already stylish appearance. The exterior featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with an optional triple-beam LED headlamp. The RX's grille was updated to resemble Lexus cars, and a new paint colour, Moonbeam Beige Metallic, was introduced. The rear design was refreshed with dual exhausts and a hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX maintained its reputation for comfort with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a variety of interior materials. The F Sport packages added unique features like a special steering wheel and 20-inch wheels. While the RX's interior wasn't as minimalist as some German competitors, it was practical and durable, suitable for family use.

The 2020 Acura RDX was powered by a 2-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering an impressive 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided strong acceleration and a satisfying engine note. The power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission and the Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system, which enhanced both performance and fuel efficiency. The RDX offered various drive modes, including Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport-Plus, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. Despite its sporty nature, the RDX maintained good fuel efficiency, with an observed consumption of 10.6 L/100 km. The RDX excelled in handling, offering a comfortable yet dynamic driving experience.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The RX 350 L variant had slightly reduced power. A hybrid version, the RX 450h, combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 7.9-second 0-60 mph time. The RX 350 achieved a combined fuel efficiency of 10.8 L/100 km, while the hybrid models excelled with lower consumption. The RX offered adaptive variable suspension and various drive modes, including Sport S+ for F Sport models. The RX provided a comfortable and quiet ride, with smooth throttle response and braking.

The 2020 Acura RDX offered a spacious cabin with comfortable and supportive front seats, providing ample head- and legroom. The second row also provided good headroom and decent legroom. The RDX featured practical storage solutions, including large door pockets and a pass-through cargo tray. The cargo area offered 835 litres of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,668 litres with the seats folded down. The load floor was easily accessible, and a hidden cargo area added to its practicality.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior accommodated four adults comfortably in the two-row model, while the three-row RX-L was best suited for small children. The cabin was wide and tall, with comfortable front seats and good visibility. However, the A-pillar could obstruct the driver's view of curbs and corners. The RX's cargo area was smaller than some competitors, with a high load floor. The RX 350 L and 450h L had even less cargo space compared to rivals. A hands-free liftgate was available on certain models.

The 2020 Acura RDX's infotainment system was a letdown, operated via a touchpad that lacked intuitive functionality. While it featured a vivid widescreen display, the touchpad interface was cumbersome. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but the touchpad hindered their usability. The RDX offered Bluetooth, USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a 9-speaker audio system. Higher trims added navigation, premium audio systems, and a head-up display.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system, though criticized, saw improvements with a touchscreen moved closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was challenging to navigate, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a workaround. The RX offered Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and various streaming services. The touchpad system improved in responsiveness. The RX featured a standard 12-speaker audio system, with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2020 Acura RDX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, LATCH systems, and a rear-view camera. It also offered driver-assistance features like lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added parking sensors and a 360-degree camera. The RDX received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2020 Lexus RX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams. It also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a backup camera. The RX added features like daytime bicyclist detection and road-sign assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.