2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2021 Acura RDX

In 2021, the Acura RDX, particularly with its optional A-Spec Package, captured the essence of sporty sophistication without venturing into the realm of excessive performance design. Unlike many crossovers attempting to disguise themselves as rugged off-roaders, the RDX embraced its true character, avoiding oversized skid plates and exaggerated fender flares. The RDX's styling choices were subtle yet undeniably effective, conveying a sense of sportiness suited for daily driving and long road trips.

Pricing for the base model of the RDX started at $38,200. The hierarchy progressed through the Technology Package at $41,100, the A-Spec Package at $44,100, and the Advance Package at $46,000. For those who sought additional capability, the SH-AWD system added another $2,000. A fully equipped RDX A-Spec SH-AWD, with the premium Platinum White paint, brought the total to $47,625, including the destination charge.

Inside, the A-Spec package transformed the cabin into a sporty haven with front sport seats featuring simulated suede inserts, a distinctive sport steering wheel, black headliner, dark brushed aluminum trim, and unique gauges with red markings that, while stylish, posed a readability issue. This setup wasn't typical of compact crossover SUV interiors, where form often follows function. However, the distinctive red ambient lighting, red exposed stitching, and the option to choose black or red upholstery enhanced the sporty feel of the RDX's interior.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner struck a very different chord. The 4Runner, last redesigned 12 years before, maintained a rugged, old-school utility. Its design featured a robust, two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches, ensuring balanced proportions and timeless styling. The chrome-festooned 4Runner Limited deviated somewhat from this rugged visage, but the overall effect remained solid and dependable.

Toyota's trim selection for the 4Runner ranged from the SR5 at $36,950 to the TRD Pro at $50,570. Our test vehicle, the Trail Special Edition, priced affordably at $38,565 for the RWD model and $43,729 including 4WD and additional features like a premium audio upgrade. The exclusive limited-run Trail Special Edition was adorned in colors like white, black, Cement (gray), and Army Green, with dark gray TRD Off-Road wheels and a Yakima RoadWarrior rooftop cargo basket.

The interior of the 4Runner Trail Special Edition continued the rugged theme with black cloth upholstery and tan stitching, all-weather floor mats, a practical sliding rear cargo tray, and an exclusive 40-quart cooler. Hard plastics dominated the interior, in keeping with the SUV's utilitarian mission. The dashboard featured large knobs and buttons with a manual air conditioning system, and a traditional key twist start, endearing the 4Runner to fans of simplicity and durability.

The 2021 Acura RDX universally featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. Despite its sporty A-Spec packaging, there was no enhancement to the performance metrics. The powertrain included a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, defaulting to front-wheel drive unless upgraded to the SH-AWD system. This system could direct up to 70% of the engine's output to the rear wheels and distribute 100% of that share to either rear wheel, immensely enhancing handling.

Drivers could switch between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes using the Integrated Dynamics System. These modes adjusted powertrain response, steering, and adaptive-damping suspension firmness in models equipped with the Advance Package. While the A-Spec benefited from exclusive Shark Gray 20-inch alloy wheels with larger, lower-profile tires, it did not include adaptive dampers, sacrificing some road handling on less-than-perfect surfaces.

Additionally, while it didn't offer a rev-matching feature for the 10-speed automatic transmission or summer performance tires, the RDX A-Spec remained rewarding to drive. The engine's broad torque curve, predictable handling, and precise steering, combined with SH-AWD and competent brakes, provided an engaging driving experience. Sport+ mode further heightened the driving dynamics with a more aggressive engine note.

Conversely, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner showcased its rugged capability during an off-road excursion at Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreational Area. Equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine delivering 270 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 278 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm, the 4Runner's performance metrics were complemented by a five-speed automatic transmission. The part-time 4WD system facilitated serious off-roading, with the Trail Special Edition leveraging the A-Trac off-road traction control system effectively.

Tackling challenging terrains, the 4Runner demonstrated its prowess, especially with additional off-road-ready features in higher trims like a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control. However, during typical on-road driving, the 4Runner felt cumbersome, slow, and heavy. Its steering and brake response were less refined, reflecting the SUV's age and truck-like build.

The 4Runner’s off-road excellence came at the cost of fuel efficiency, averaging 16.8 mpg in combined driving, including off-road use. Despite its performance prowess on rough terrains, the 4Runner's truck-like characteristics made urban driving less appealing.

While the 2021 Acura RDX fell within the compact SUV category, its interior provided spacious passenger and cargo accommodations, making it an excellent value. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, featuring 12-way power adjustments, heating, and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised due to the design aimed at maximizing cargo utility, resulting in an uncomfortable slouch for passengers.

Official cargo volume behind the rear seats was 29.5 cubic feet, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Despite these modest figures, the trunk space appeared accommodating, enhanced by a deep storage well and additional compartments under the cargo floor, useful for organizing smaller items.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner emphasized off-road utility throughout its interior design. Its higher stance could pose a challenge for shorter individuals, while the available running boards added convenience. Inside, the 4Runner offered generous legroom and visibility in the rear seats, with supportive seating and modern amenities like air conditioning vents and USB charging ports.

The 4Runner's configurable cargo space was notable, measuring up to 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 89.7 cubic feet with seats folded, combined with the Trail Special Edition's roof rack. Interior storage was practical, accommodating a variety of items for various adventures. Additionally, the sliding cargo deck, despite taking up some space, proved beneficial for lifestyle-oriented functionalities.

Acura's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) characterized the 2021 RDX, offering a unique approach to infotainment without a touchscreen. The pad mirrored screen positions for inputs but required an adjustment period from users, often causing distractions due to its unconventional operation method. Acura attempted to mitigate these issues by providing traditional physical knobs and integrating key convenience features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a robust voice-recognition system. The A-Spec trim included a premium 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D audio system, providing an exceptional auditory experience.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner’s Trail Special Edition featured basic but functional technology. It included a windshield wiper de-icer system and a 120-volt AC power outlet in the cargo area. The standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system encompassed all expected modern features, including connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The premium audio upgrade added navigation and enhanced voice recognition. Despite its old-school appearance, the infotainment system's responsive and user-friendly nature made it effective and practical.

Safety was a priority for the 2021 Acura RDX, equipped with the AcuraWatch package. It included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were available only with the Technology Package. The RDX earned stellar safety ratings, including the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" and a five-star overall NHTSA rating, contributing to its reputation for occupant protection.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), covering basics like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. However, the system lacked advanced features and essential technologies like blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The 4Runner showcased mixed safety ratings due to its age, with a lower NHTSA frontal-impact and small overlap frontal-impact rating from the IIHS.