2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, with its body-on-frame construction reminiscent of traditional SUVs. Its exterior featured a distinctive roofline and rear window curve, complemented by Infiniti's signature grille and headlight design, giving it a bold yet refined appearance. The QX80 came standard with LED lighting and offered 20-inch alloy wheels, with an upgrade to 22-inch wheels on higher trims. Inside, the QX80's interior closely mirrored the Armada, with added luxury touches like wood trim and leather upholstery, though it retained some Nissan elements, such as the dashboard layout and switchgear. While the interior felt luxurious, it lacked the exclusivity some buyers might expect from a high-end SUV.

The 2022 Acura RDX, meanwhile, featured subtle styling updates inspired by the larger MDX model, including changes to the grille and bumper designs. The RDX PMC Edition stood out with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included various trims, with prices ranging from $45,800 to $61,500. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package offered high-quality materials and a quieter interior, enhancing its appeal. Despite some design quirks, such as the vertical air inlets, the RDX maintained a stylish presence, offering a more dynamic look compared to many of its competitors.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-litre V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. It featured standard four-wheel drive in Canada, providing ample power for highway overtaking, though transmission shifts could have been smoother. The QX80's body-on-frame construction, combined with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on higher trims, delivered a comfortable ride, though it exhibited some body roll in corners. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by a 4WD drivetrain with low range and a forward skid plate, while its towing capacity reached 3,855 kilograms.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, generating 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The RDX featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which provided excellent torque vectoring for improved handling. The RDX's adaptive-damping suspension and revised Integrated Dynamics System offered a smoother ride and greater responsiveness. Despite its engaging driving dynamics, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious three-row configuration, with standard seven-seat capacity and an optional eight-seat layout on higher trims. It featured power-adjustable front seats with heating and cooling, though the cushions lacked thigh support. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in all three rows, though cargo space was limited compared to rivals like the Cadillac Escalade. The QX80's power liftgate and split-folding third row facilitated easy transitions between passenger and cargo configurations.

The 2022 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The RDX's interior featured a sporty design, though its control layout required some acclimation. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, while the rear seats lacked support for adults. The RDX offered a generous 835 litres of cargo space, with additional storage compartments beneath the load floor, and a power liftgate with available hands-free operation.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came with the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. However, the user interface was cumbersome, with small screens and complex controls. The QX80 also offered a Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor for enhanced visibility.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which required a learning curve due to its unique touchpad design. Despite its complexity, the RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of premium sound systems. The RDX's technology package added navigation and a head-up display, enhancing its tech appeal.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added advanced safety systems, though the QX80 lacked testing from the IIHS.

The 2022 Acura RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, thanks to structural upgrades and new safety features like a rear seatbelt reminder. The standard AcuraWatch suite included adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, though these systems were not as refined as some competitors. The RDX received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.