2020 Acura RDX vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, following its 2019 redesign, presented a bolder and more angular appearance, distinguishing itself from its traditionally cute 'ute competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V. This redesign aimed to visually match the RAV4's long-standing reputation for durability. Among its various trims, the Trail model enhanced its off-roading capabilities with a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, multiple driving modes, and downhill assist control. The 2020 model introduced the TRD Off-Road package, which further elevated its ruggedness with matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a TRD suspension setup. The TRD Off-Road was visually similar to the Trail, with distinguishing features like wheels, tires, and badges. Inside, it featured TRD logos, rubber floor mats, and a mix of quality materials, contrasting with some less expensive-looking plastics. The RAV4's trim levels ranged from the base LE to the top-tier Limited, with the TRD Off-Road package residing near the top of the lineup.

The 2020 Acura RDX maintained its striking design from the previous year, featuring a beamy grille and rakish headlights, which replaced the outdated "beak" grille. The large logo within the grille was a notable styling element, and the vehicle's character lines added a dynamic look. Inside, the RDX boasted sharp styling with eye-catching red leather upholstery, creating a strong red-and-black contrast. The RDX came well-equipped with features like synthetic leather upholstery, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a 10.2-inch infotainment screen. The lineup included the base RDX, Tech, A-Spec, and Platinum Elite A-Spec trims, each adding various features. The A-Spec trim, which was performance-inspired, included unique visual upgrades and interior enhancements. The Platinum Elite A-Spec added premium features like 16-way power front seats and natural Olive Ash wood trim. Despite the range of trims, CarGurus recommended the base RDX for its value and standard content.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid variant offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, but it wasn't available with the TRD Off-Road package. The non-turbo, non-hybrid powertrain of the test vehicle provided adequate performance, especially in Sport mode, although a turbocharged engine would have been preferable for high-altitude driving. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally struggled with gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system with fuel-saving driveline disconnect technology and multiple terrain settings, making it suitable for various driving conditions. The RAV4 TRD Off-Road excelled in off-road scenarios, handling challenging trails with ease. In urban settings, the TRD suspension smoothed out speed humps, and the 360-degree camera system facilitated parking. The test vehicle averaged 10.0 L/100 km, slightly missing the official estimate of 8.6 L/100 km.

The 2020 Acura RDX featured a 2-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, providing strong acceleration and a pleasing engine note. Power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission paired with the Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system (SH-AWD). The transmission contributed to both fuel efficiency and performance, with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters available for manual control. The Integrated Dynamics System offered Comfort, Snow, Sport, and Sport-Plus drive modes, adjusting throttle response, shift patterns, and power delivery. The RDX's dash featured a large drive-mode dial and a unique shifter design, which occupied significant space. The stop-start system, aimed at conserving fuel, could be deactivated via a conveniently located button. The RDX A-Spec test model achieved a fuel consumption of 10.6 L/100 km, close to the estimated 10.3 combined. The RDX excelled in both acceleration and handling, offering a comfortable ride while maintaining performance capabilities.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy access with well-positioned seating hip points. The driver's seat was 4-way power-adjustable, while the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment but provided good support. The RAV4 Trail featured SofTex upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB ports. Interior storage was ample, with a dashboard shelf for convenience. Cargo space measured 1,062 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,974 litres with the seats folded. The test vehicle included roof rails and a roof rack for added utility.

The 2020 Acura RDX pushed the boundaries of a "compact" SUV with its spacious cabin and comfortable front seats. The driving position was easily adjustable, offering ample head- and legroom. The second row provided good headroom and decent legroom, with a fold-down centre console and in-door cup holders. The front row featured storage for large water bottles and a pass-through cargo tray with a USB port. The RDX offered 835 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,668 litres or up to 2,260 litres with the seats folded. The cargo area was easily accessible, with a liftable panel revealing a hidden storage compartment.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 featured user-friendly technology, with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display depending on the trim. The 8-inch system, standard in the Trail, suffered from glare but was otherwise easy to use. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and connected services with free trial periods. Menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls enhanced usability. Upgrades included navigation and a JBL premium sound system. The TRD Off-Road's voice-recognition technology was impressive, accurately responding to commands. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2020 Acura RDX's infotainment system was a letdown, operated via a touchpad called the True Touchpad Interface. The system lacked the logic of similar systems, requiring constant attention to ensure correct selections. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard but not optimized for the touchpad. Other standard tech features included Bluetooth, USB ports, a WiFi hot spot, and a 9-speaker audio system. The Tech grade added navigation and the ELS premium audio system, known for its clarity and power. The A-Spec featured the ELS Studio 3D sound system with 16 speakers, while the Platinum Elite A-Spec added a head-up display.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The systems operated smoothly, encouraging drivers to keep them active. Toyota offered a free 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services, providing collision notification and emergency assistance. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance, though headlight performance varied.

The 2020 Acura RDX included a comprehensive set of safety features, such as airbags, LATCH systems, and a rear-view camera. Driver-assistance features included lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Tech grade added parking sensors, while the Platinum Elite A-Spec included a head-up display and a 360-degree camera. The 2019 RDX received a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.