2020 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2020 Ford Explorer was a striking vehicle, boasting a design that was more refined and athletic compared to its predecessors. Its widened headlights, large grille, and distinctive "Explorer" lettering on the hood gave it a recognizable and bold presence. The ST version, with its black 21-inch rims and red brake calipers, was particularly eye-catching. However, the interior did not match the exterior's appeal. Despite its high price tag, the interior materials felt subpar, with low-grade vinyl and hard plastics dominating the cabin. This lack of luxury was a significant drawback, especially when compared to more affordable competitors offering better quality interiors.

In contrast, the 2021 Acura RDX, especially in the A-Spec trim, presented a sporty and sophisticated look without overdoing it. Its design was subtle yet effective, avoiding unnecessary off-road elements and focusing on a sleek, road-friendly appearance. Inside, the RDX continued this theme with quality materials and a sporty feel. The A-Spec trim added unique touches like sport seats with suede inserts and red ambient lighting, enhancing the overall experience. However, the gauge cluster's red markings on a brushed silver background were difficult to read, detracting slightly from the otherwise impressive interior.

The 2020 Ford Explorer offered a range of powerful engines, with the ST trim featuring a 3.0-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered smooth and addictive power. The rear-wheel-drive chassis provided excellent weight distribution, enhancing handling and ride quality. The Explorer also offered a 2.3-litre turbo inline four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and a hybrid option with a net 318 horsepower. However, the hybrid's fuel efficiency did not justify its higher price. The Explorer's towing capacity ranged from 2,268 to 2,540 kilograms, depending on the engine.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Its 10-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system improved handling, making the RDX enjoyable to drive. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between different driving modes, adjusting powertrain response and steering effort. While the A-Spec trim's 20-inch wheels and performance tires enhanced handling, the lack of adaptive dampers resulted in some body motion on uneven roads. Despite this, the RDX's precise steering and fade-resistant brakes made it a rewarding drive.

The 2020 Ford Explorer excelled in interior space, offering ample headroom and legroom for passengers. The second row felt luxurious with air vents, USB ports, and a panoramic moonroof. The third row accommodated adults for short trips, though the bench was not ideal for long journeys. Cargo space was generous, with 509 litres behind the third row, 1,359 litres behind the second row, and 2,491 litres with all seats folded. The Explorer's physical controls were user-friendly, though the thick D-pillars and fuzzy cameras created blind spots.

The 2021 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 12-way power adjustment and heating as standard. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion, leading to a lack of leg support. Cargo space measured 835 litres behind the rear seat and 1,668 litres with the seats folded. The RDX also featured a deep storage well and additional compartments under the cargo floor, enhancing its practicality.

The 2020 Ford Explorer came with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring Sync 3 infotainment, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot. The Premium Technology Package added a 10-inch vertical touchscreen and a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. While the interface was high-resolution and well-organized, it lacked customization options. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ system offered semi-automated driving features but was not as refined as competitors' systems.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface, which mirrored the screen's layout on a touchpad. While this system improved upon Lexus's approach, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX included standard satellite radio, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi tethering, with an available navigation system. The A-Spec trim featured a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, delivering excellent sound quality.

The 2020 Ford Explorer came standard with Ford Co-Pilot 360, which included forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, auto high beams, and lane-keep assist. It also featured adaptive cruise control with steering assist and reverse braking. The Explorer received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2021 Acura RDX included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available on higher trims. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.