2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's "professional grade" ethos, offering a blend of ruggedness and refinement that positioned it between Chevrolet and Cadillac in the General Motors lineup. The redesigned Yukon, available in various trims including the off-road-oriented AT4 and the upscale Denali, was a full-size SUV that appealed to buyers seeking substance over flashy branding. The Denali trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, and leather-wrapped panels, creating an upscale cabin experience. The Yukon Denali's exterior, with its bold grille and chrome accents, exuded a commanding presence, especially when adorned in Midnight Blue paint and 22-inch wheels.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX offered subtle styling updates inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. The RDX's design changes included a revised grille surround, updated bumper styling, and new wheel designs. The limited-production PMC Edition, with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint, added a touch of exclusivity. The RDX lineup, featuring trims like the A-Spec Platinum Elite, emphasized high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin. Despite some polarizing design elements, such as the vertical air inlets, the RDX maintained a stylish flair that set it apart from many competitors.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered a choice of three engines, with the Denali trim featuring a powerful 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered robust acceleration and a distinctive V8 burble at idle. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with an average of 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres on a testing loop. The Yukon's new Active Response 4WD system, with features like a two-speed transfer case and electronic limited-slip differential, enhanced its cornering performance and traction. Despite its size, the Yukon Denali demonstrated impressive grip and accurate steering, though the brake pedal initially felt stiff.

The 2022 Acura RDX, on the other hand, was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine producing 272 horsepower. This engine, coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided an enjoyable driving experience, though it fell short of its fuel consumption rating, averaging 11.4 L/100 km. The RDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, standard in Canada, offered torque-vectoring capabilities, enhancing its agility on winding roads. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness, while sound-deadening measures contributed to a quieter cabin.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, resulting in significant gains in passenger and cargo space. The Denali trim featured leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sliding console for added convenience. The second-row seats offered improved comfort and cargo room, while the third-row seat provided actual thigh support, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres of space available in the Denali trim.

In comparison, the 2022 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, offered ample room for four adults and their luggage. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The RDX's front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation, while the back seat, though flat, provided a flat cargo load floor when folded. The RDX offered 835 litres of cargo space, with additional hidden storage compartments beneath the load floor.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali, equipped with the Ultimate Package, offered a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included a 14-speaker Bose Performance Series audio system, though it fell short of expectations. The Rear Seat Media system, with dual 12.6-inch displays, provided entertainment for passengers, though it required some setup. Additional technology included a 15-inch colour head-up display and multiple surround-view camera vantage points.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. While the TTI required acclimation, the RDX offered Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX's premium sound systems ranged from a nine-speaker setup to a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system. The A-Spec Platinum Elite trim included a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2021 GMC Yukon came equipped with a range of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the Yukon's substantial curb weight provided a sense of security.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The standard AcuraWatch suite included features like forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The RDX's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems were reasonably refined, though not as smooth as some competitors. The NHTSA awarded the RDX a five-star overall crash-test rating.