2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, particularly in the A-Spec trim, was a visually appealing SUV. Its design changes were subtle yet effective, conveying a sense of sportiness without overpromising on performance. Unlike many crossovers, the RDX did not attempt to mimic an off-road vehicle, avoiding oversized skid plates and bulging fender flares. This SUV was designed for daily driving and road trips, not off-roading. The A-Spec trim sat in the middle of the trim hierarchy, with a base price of $44,505, and offered a sporty interior with features like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient cabin lighting. However, the gauge cluster with red markings on a brushed silver background was difficult to read, except at night.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, including updates to the grille surround and bumper styling. The limited-production PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. The 2022 lineup included the base model, Technology, A-Spec, A-Spec Platinum Elite, and PMC Edition, with starting prices ranging from $45,800 to $61,500. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package offered high-quality interior materials, solid build quality, and a quieter interior. Despite some design quirks, the RDX maintained a stylish appearance compared to its rivals.

The 2021 Acura RDX was equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque from 1,600 rpm to 4,500 rpm. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and the torque-vectoring SH-AWD system were standard, delivering up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, adjusting powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. A-Spec models featured exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels with performance all-season tires, enhancing handling. However, the lack of adaptive dampers on the A-Spec trim resulted in noticeable body motion on uneven roads. Despite these drawbacks, the RDX A-Spec offered a rewarding driving experience with precise steering and fade-resistant brakes.

The 2022 Acura RDX retained the same powertrain, with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system remained standard, providing excellent handling on winding roads. For 2022, Acura revised the Integrated Dynamics System for more distinct driving modes and re-tuned the adaptive-damping suspension for a smoother ride in Comfort mode and greater responsiveness in Sport mode. The 2022 RDX also featured improved sound insulation, resulting in a quieter cabin. While the RDX offered enjoyable driving dynamics, it still did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, and driving enthusiasts might prefer German alternatives.

The 2021 Acura RDX, though classified as a compact SUV, offered remarkable passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable, with 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation in higher trims. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion, resulting in a lack of leg support. Cargo space measured 835 litres behind the rear seat, with additional storage compartments beneath the load floor. Folding the rear seats increased cargo capacity to 1,668 litres, though the official maximum value of 2,260 litres was based on an unrealistic loading method.

The 2022 Acura RDX provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a dramatic IDS knob on the dashboard. The control layout required a learning curve, with the True Touchpad Interface and metallic gauge faces with red markings. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation and a heated steering wheel. However, the rear seat lacked support, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor. The power liftgate revealed 835 litres of cargo space, with hidden storage compartments beneath the load floor.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system, featuring a touch-sensing pad on the centre console. This system mirrored the screen, allowing drivers to control functions by touching corresponding areas on the pad. While an improvement over Lexus's approach, the TTI still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, delivering excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Acura RDX retained the TTI system, pairing a 10.2-inch display screen with a sectioned touchpad controller. The system offered a direct one-to-one relationship between touchpad and screen, but remained complicated compared to a touchscreen. The 2022 RDX added Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an available wireless charging pad. Three premium sound systems were available, with the A-Spec Platinum Elite featuring a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with a suite of safety features, including 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.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, maintaining its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder system, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Technology package added front and rear parking sensors with low-speed automatic braking. The NHTSA awarded the 2022 RDX a five-star overall crash-test rating, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.