2022 INFINITI QX60 vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, particularly in its A-Spec trim, presented a visually appealing SUV without resorting to excessive blacked-out trim or traditional performance design cues. Its styling changes were subtle yet effective, conveying a sense of sportiness without overpromising on acceleration and handling. Acura wisely avoided giving the RDX an off-road appearance, as it was designed for daily driving and road-tripping rather than rugged terrain. The A-Spec trim sat in the middle of the trim hierarchy, with a base price starting at $44,505, and the A-Spec trim priced at $50,305. The interior of the RDX A-Spec featured sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting, creating a 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 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a complete makeover, featuring a new exterior design, interior, powertrains, and technologies. The exterior changes resulted in a dramatic and attractive crossover SUV, with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and oversized air intakes. The long hood and steeply raked windshield conveyed elegance, while the roof appeared to float above the cabin due to blacked-out pillars. The interior of the QX60 felt wide and open, with quilted leather upholstery on the Autograph trim level. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display was well-placed, and the TFT instrument panel delivered crisp graphics. The QX60 models were built in Tennessee, showcasing a high level of craftsmanship and build quality.

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. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a torque-vectoring SH-AWD system, which improved handling and made the RDX enjoyable to drive. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, adjusting powertrain character, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec models had exclusive Shark Gray 20-inch alloy wheels with performance all-season tires, enhancing handling. However, the lack of adaptive dampers on the A-Spec trim resulted in some body motion on uneven roads. Despite this, the RDX A-Spec was rewarding to drive, with precise steering and fade-resistant brakes.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which provided a superior driving experience compared to the previous CVT. The QX60's suspension was reworked, offering a smooth and serene ride, while the electric power steering delivered good feel. The QX60 was not designed for aggressive cornering but excelled in providing comfort for passengers in the second and third rows. The vehicle's off-road capabilities were not tested, as it was primarily intended for smooth highways and suburban streets.

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 and heating as standard. 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 835 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, with additional storage compartments under the cargo floor. Folding the rear seats increased cargo capacity to 1,668 litres, with a maximum value of 2,260 litres when the front seats were moved forward.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60, with its three-row configuration, catered to passengers with ample storage, charging ports, and comfort. The centre console offered convenient storage for smartphones and other items. The second-row seats could slide fore and aft, and the third-row seats were accessible and comfortable. The QX60 provided 411 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 1,178 litres with the third row folded, and 2,135 litres with both rows folded. The QX60 also had a towing capacity of up to 2,721 kilograms with additional equipment.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the centre console instead of a touchscreen. While it improved upon the Lexus approach, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 came with a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity. It featured multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a navigation system. Higher trims included a head-up display and a smart rearview mirror. The Sensory and Autograph models boasted a 17-speaker Bose Performance series sound system.

The 2021 Acura RDX was equipped with 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.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the previous generation received high ratings. The QX60 included a comprehensive set of airbags and advanced driver assistance systems, such as forward emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was standard on all trims except Pure, with additional optional safety features available.