2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 Honda HR-V

The 2021 Honda HR-V presented a softer, friendlier appearance compared to Honda's larger SUVs, which typically featured more traditional and intimidating designs. Its distinctive styling included unique window lines converging near the taillights, housing the rear door handles. Most trims came with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport model boasted matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim. The interior, though plain, was functional and well-built, with good material quality. Higher trims like the EX and EX-L offered features such as push-button start, automatic climate control, a moonroof, and heated front seats, with the EX-L adding leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX required a closer look to notice its subtle styling changes, inspired by the larger MDX model. The RDX featured updated grille surrounds, bumper styling, and new wheel designs. The limited-production PMC Edition stood out with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included various packages, with prices ranging from $42,300 to $53,300. Our test vehicle, the A-Spec Advance package, showcased high-quality materials, solid build quality, and a quieter interior, justifying its price. Despite some design quirks, the RDX maintained a stylish flair compared to its rivals.

The 2021 Honda HR-V was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While all-wheel drive (AWD) was available, front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard. The HR-V's powertrain was considered underpowered for highway driving, with the CVT compounding the issue. However, its chassis offered a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads, living up to Honda's reputation for fun cars. The HR-V's AWD system was suitable for slippery roads but not for rough terrain, and it lacked towing capability.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard. The RDX's drivetrain provided an enjoyable driving experience, though fuel economy fell short of EPA ratings. The SH-AWD system, standard on higher trims, offered impressive torque-vectoring capabilities. Acura's revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension enhanced ride comfort and responsiveness. The RDX's quieter cabin and driving dynamics made it a compelling choice, though it didn't qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge.

The 2021 Honda HR-V excelled in cargo space, thanks to its "Magic Seat" rear bench, offering up to 58.8 cubic feet of space with the seats folded. It surpassed many competitors in cargo capacity and rear-seat legroom, though front-seat legroom and headroom were average. The HR-V's interior featured sensibly-designed controls, including large climate control knobs and an audio volume knob. The narrow center console was dominated by a large shift lever, and a standard tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel made finding a comfortable driving position easier.

The 2022 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior emphasized a sporty driving position, though the control layout required some acclimation. The RDX's front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation and a heated steering wheel. However, the back seat lacked comfort, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor. The RDX offered 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with additional hidden storage compartments beneath the load floor.

The 2021 Honda HR-V's base LX trim included Bluetooth, a 5-inch display, and a four-speaker audio system. Upgrading to the Sport trim added a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was functional but basic, with two USB ports for connectivity and charging. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was considered small, and competitors offered more standard features.

The 2022 Acura RDX's TTI infotainment system paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller, requiring a learning curve. Despite its complexity, the RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Standard features included satellite radio, AcuraLink connected services, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system featuring 16 speakers. A 10.5-inch head-up display was available on higher trims.

The 2021 Honda HR-V received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. However, it had "Marginal" and "Poor" headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" LATCH rating. Honda Sensing safety features were available on higher trims, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, though IIHS ratings were pending. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder and enhanced AcuraWatch systems, with pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring. The RDX received a five-star overall crash-test rating from NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.