2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the A-Spec Package, presented a sporty yet understated design. Its styling changes were subtle, avoiding excessive blacked-out trim or traditional performance cues, which conveyed a sense of sportiness without overpromising on performance. The RDX was not designed for off-roading, evident from the absence of oversized skid plates or fender flares, making it ideal for daily driving and road trips. The A-Spec Package added a sporty interior with features like front sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting, enhancing the overall sporty look and feel. However, the gauge cluster with red markings on a brushed silver background was difficult to read, except at night.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 exuded luxury and prestige, standing out among its competitors. It boasted superior interior quality compared to the Cadillac Escalade and more technological sophistication than the Lexus LX 570. The X7's styling was appealing, with traditional BMW cues and a massive grille that suited its large SUV stature. Inside, the X7 shared high-tech design and quality materials with the X5, offering a luxurious and comfortable experience. The SUV's interior was equipped with premium features like extended leather upholstery and a suede headliner, making it a top choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and technology.

The 2021 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and offered an optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which significantly improved handling. The RDX's Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between different driving modes, enhancing the driving experience. However, the A-Spec model lacked adaptive dampers, resulting in noticeable body motion on uneven roads. Despite this, the RDX was rewarding to drive, with precise steering and fade-resistant brakes.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower from 5,500 to 6,500 rpm and 331 lb-ft of torque between 1,500 and 5,200 rpm. It included BMW's eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which aimed to improve fuel economy and responsiveness. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power. However, the SUV's self-leveling air suspension struggled with excessive body motions, affecting driving enjoyment. The Dynamic Handling Package improved maneuverability and stability, while the M Sport brakes provided reliable stopping power. Despite its weight, the X7 demonstrated effortless speed and fluidity on highways.

The 2021 Acura RDX offered remarkable passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV, making it a great value. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised due to the need to maximize utility, resulting in a lack of leg support and an uncomfortable seating position. The RDX provided 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. While not class-leading, the cargo area was practical and accommodating.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, with features like heated and ventilated front seats, a five-zone climate control system, and premium leather upholstery. Front-seat comfort was outstanding, and the second-row captain's chairs were exceptionally comfortable. The third-row seat was surprisingly accommodating for adults, although accessing it required some effort. The X7 offered 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the third-row seats folded and a maximum of 90.4 cubic feet with the second-row seats down, providing ample room for cargo.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While it improved upon Lexus's approach, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice-recognition technology, enhancing connectivity. The A-Spec model came with a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, delivering excellent sound quality.

The 2021 BMW X7 was equipped with the iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrumentation. It offered Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and enhanced SiriusXM 360L, along with accurate traffic data and real-time parking information. The system included wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control, although the latter was inconsistent. The X7's technology was user-friendly, with a head-up display and a WiFi hotspot for added convenience.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. 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.

The 2021 BMW X7 included standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The package added features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist, enhancing safety and reducing stress. The X7's driving assistance technology was generally impressive, though it occasionally struggled with lane maintenance. The Parking Assistance Package offered semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera for added convenience.