2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's renowned craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design, from the iconic kidney grille to the body shape, was unmistakably BMW, offering a sense of familiarity and luxury. The X5's exterior featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice between xLine and M Sport styling, each providing a distinct aesthetic. The xLine models boasted matte aluminum grilles and satin aluminum finishes, while the M Sport models offered a sportier look with body-coloured trims and high-gloss black accents. Inside, the X5's interior was consistent with BMW's design language, featuring a mix of leather and soft-touch materials, though it was criticized for its abundance of black plastic. The M Sport models added unique styling elements, enhancing the sporty feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX required a closer look to notice its subtle styling changes, inspired by the larger MDX model. The RDX's grille surround and bumper styling were updated, along with new wheel designs and paint colours. The limited-production PMC Edition stood out with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included various trims, with the A-Spec Platinum Elite package offering high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin. Despite some criticism of the new vertical air inlets, the RDX maintained a stylish flair, making it a compelling choice among compact luxury SUVs.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M reached 600 hp, increasing to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model combined a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with a 24-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, and offering up to 50 kilometres of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and drive dynamics were criticized for lacking the engaging handling expected from BMW, with a Lincoln-like feel at higher speeds. The X5's fuel efficiency varied, with the xDrive45e rated at 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres when using both electricity and gas.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the RDX's powertrain offered an enjoyable driving experience, though it struggled to meet its fuel consumption rating of 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided excellent torque-vectoring capabilities, enhancing the RDX's driving dynamics. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness. Despite these enhancements, the RDX was not considered a genuine thrill ride, lacking the performance badge of Acura's Type S models. However, it remained a comfortable and communicative SUV, suitable for everyday driving.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was spacious and comfortable for short trips, though the front seats became hard after extended periods. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, with an optional third row available. The X5's climate controls were easy to manage, and the split liftgate with power functionality facilitated loading cargo. The cargo area was spacious, though slightly reduced in the xDrive45e model. However, the rear doors did not open wide, making it challenging to move children and cargo in and out.

The 2022 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered ample room for four adults and their luggage, enhanced by a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior emphasized a sporty driving position, though the control layout required a learning curve. The standard 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats were comfortable, with available ventilation. The back seat, however, lacked support, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor when folded. The RDX featured a power liftgate with hands-free operation, revealing 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded. Hidden storage compartments added to its practicality.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The iDrive system required acclimation but was user-friendly over time. Standard features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various connectivity options. Buyers could upgrade to a head-up display, premium audio systems, and additional comfort features. However, the wireless Apple CarPlay had connectivity issues, often taking over musical operations unexpectedly.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, pairing a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. The TTI required a learning curve, as it differed from traditional touchscreens. Despite its complexity, the RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, reducing reliance on the TTI. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system available in higher trims. The A-Spec Platinum Elite model included a 10.5-inch head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, particularly in bright sunlight or light rain. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, despite being subject to seven recalls.

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 and enhanced AcuraWatch systems. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were refined but not as sophisticated as some competitors. The RDX received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.