2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal both inside and out. The exterior updates included standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlamps. The grille was redesigned to align with the Lexus car lineup, and a new paint option, Moonbeam Beige Metallic, was introduced. The rear of the RX was revamped with dual exhausts, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, creating a modern look. Inside, the RX maintained its reputation for luxury with standard heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and leather-wrapped surfaces. The F Sport packages added unique styling elements, including a distinctive steering wheel and 20-inch wheels. Despite its stylish interior, the centre stack's design was beginning to show its age.

The 2021 Acura RDX, particularly in the A-Spec trim, was praised for its sporty yet understated design. It avoided excessive off-road styling cues, focusing instead on a sleek, road-oriented appearance. The RDX A-Spec sat in the middle of the trim hierarchy, offering a balance of style and performance. The interior featured sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting, creating a dynamic atmosphere. While the gauge cluster's red markings on a brushed silver background were challenging to read, the overall interior quality was high. The RDX's design emphasized sportiness without compromising daily usability, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish and practical SUV.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The RX 350 L variant offered slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, with a focus on fuel efficiency. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds. Fuel consumption was rated at 10.8 L/100 km combined for the RX 350 and 7.9 L/100 km for the RX 450h. The RX offered various drive modes, including Sport S+ for F Sport models, enhancing agility with adaptive variable suspension and 20-inch wheels.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and the torque-vectoring SH-AWD system, enhancing handling by distributing power to the rear wheels. The RDX offered driving modes like Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, adjusting powertrain response and steering effort. A-Spec models had exclusive 20-inch wheels with performance tires, contributing to improved handling. While the RDX lacked adaptive dampers, it provided a rewarding driving experience with precise steering and fade-resistant brakes. The turbo engine's broad torque curve and SH-AWD system made the RDX enjoyable to drive, especially in Sport+ mode, which added an aggressive engine note.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior, while not as minimalist as some German competitors, offered comfort and practicality. The two-row RX accommodated four adults comfortably, but the three-row RX-L's third row was best suited for small children. The cabin was spacious in the two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good visibility. However, the cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350 L and 450h L also had less cargo space compared to competitors like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on certain models, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable, with 12-way power adjustment and heating as standard. A-Spec and Platinum Elite trims added ventilation. The rear seats, however, lacked leg support due to a low and flat cushion. Cargo space was competitive, with 835 litres behind the rear seat and a deep storage well for smaller items. Folding the rear seats expanded cargo capacity to 1,668 litres, with a maximum of 2,260 litres when measured unconventionally. The RDX's interior design prioritized utility, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system, though criticized, saw improvements in 2020. The display was moved closer to the driver, and the system became a touchscreen. However, navigation remained challenging without verbal directions. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connectivity options helped mitigate these issues. The RX featured a standard 12-speaker audio system, with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available. Additional USB ports were added, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface, a touch-sensing pad on the centre console. While an improvement over Lexus's system, it required retraining to use effectively. The RDX offered standard satellite radio, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi tethering, with available navigation. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D audio system, delivering excellent sound quality. Despite its learning curve, the TTI system represented a step forward in infotainment technology.

The 2020 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional enhancements included daytime bicyclist detection and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect subscriptions were included, though connectivity issues were noted during testing.

The 2021 Acura RDX offered a suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, 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.