2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2022 Acura RDX

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a testament to Subaru's strategy of transforming the Impreza hatchback into a crossover with rugged aesthetics, standard all-wheel drive, and a higher driving position. This approach, similar to the successful Outback, gave the Crosstrek a distinct SUV-like character, enhanced by black body cladding, model-specific alloy wheels, and a raised ride height offering 22 centimetres of ground clearance. The Crosstrek's design was further accentuated by vibrant colour options like Plasma Yellow Pearl, adding a splash of personality to its otherwise functional and somewhat plain interior, which retained the Impreza's layout but included unique touches like water-repellant upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling updates inspired by the larger MDX model, with changes to the grille surround and bumper designs, new wheel designs, and fresh paint colours. The RDX's interior was marked by high-quality materials and a quieter cabin, thanks to enhanced sound insulation. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375 in Canada, offered a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. Despite its quirks, the RDX's interior was comfortable and stylish, with features like a panoramic sunroof and heated front seats, though the rear seats lacked some comfort for adult passengers.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two engine options: a new 2.5-litre boxer-four engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, standard on the Outdoor and Limited trims, and a 2.0-litre boxer-four engine with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque for other trims. The Crosstrek's hallmark was its standard all-wheel drive, complemented by X-Mode for better traction on loose surfaces. Despite its SUV-like stance, the Crosstrek's handling was predictable, though the higher centre of gravity resulted in noticeable body roll. The new 2.5-litre engine provided a modest power boost, but acceleration remained adequate, with the CVT contributing to a droning sound.

The 2022 Acura RDX, on the other hand, was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offered a spirited driving experience, though fuel efficiency was lower than expected. The RDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system provided excellent torque vectoring, enhancing cornering performance. The revised Integrated Dynamics System and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness, while sound-deadening measures ensured a quieter cabin. Despite its dynamic prowess, the RDX fell short of earning Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo capacity compared to rivals. With 588 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,565 litres with them folded, the Crosstrek was more compact car than crossover. The interior featured practical storage solutions, though rear-seat passengers had limited access to USB ports. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, providing good outward visibility, but not the commanding view typical of larger SUVs.

The 2022 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, thanks to a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior boasted a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, though the back seat lacked comfort for adults. The RDX offered 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded, along with hidden storage compartments. The power liftgate with hands-free operation added convenience, while the interior featured premium materials and a range of comfort features, including heated and ventilated front seats.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Higher trims received an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. The system was user-friendly, with large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions. EyeSight driver-assistance features were controlled via steering wheel buttons, ensuring ease of use.

The 2022 Acura RDX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller, offering a unique but complex user experience. The system required a learning curve, though Amazon Alexa Built-in and steering wheel controls reduced reliance on the TTI. The RDX also featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a range of premium sound systems, including a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system in higher trims.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, with high ratings in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. EyeSight driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning, were standard on CVT-equipped models. However, the system's cameras had limitations, such as being blocked by windshield wipers or washed out in direct sunlight.

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 and enhanced AcuraWatch driver-assist systems, such as forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The RDX also earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, though its adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems were not as refined as some competitors.