2021 Volvo XC60 vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Volvo XC60, a product of Volvo's rebirth under Geely Holding Group, showcased a blend of elegance and innovation. Built on the SPA platform, the XC60 shared its architecture with other Volvo models, offering a cohesive design language. Its exterior featured a sophisticated two-box design with short overhangs, an upright grille adorned with the iconic iron mark logo, and distinctive Thor's hammer LED headlights. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian design, with clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen was a notable feature, complemented by elegant HVAC vents and harmonious textures throughout the cabin.

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the A-Spec Package, presented a sporty yet refined appearance. Its design changes were subtle, avoiding excessive performance cues while maintaining a sleek look. The RDX was not designed for off-roading, focusing instead on daily driving and road trips. The A-Spec trim added sporty elements to the interior, including front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting. However, the gauge cluster with red markings on a brushed silver background was difficult to read. Despite this, the RDX's interior delivered a sporty feel with quality materials and a unique approach to controls.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 offered a range of powertrains, all featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T5 models produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, available in FWD or AWD. The T6 models, with both a turbocharger and supercharger, delivered 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, exclusively in AWD. The T8 models, as plug-in hybrids, combined an 87-hp electric motor with the gasoline engine, achieving 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. The T8 Polestar Engineered variant further increased output to 415 horsepower. The XC60's AWD system and torque vectoring provided excellent handling, while the cabin remained quiet and comfortable. Fuel economy varied, with the T8 PHEV achieving up to 57 MPGe in electric-only mode.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The SH-AWD system, available as an option, enhanced handling by distributing power to the rear wheels as needed. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between different driving modes, affecting powertrain response and steering effort. A-Spec models came with exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, though the lack of adaptive dampers resulted in some body motion on uneven roads. Despite this, the RDX offered a rewarding driving experience with precise steering and effective brakes.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 excelled in providing comfort and functionality. Its front seats were highly adjustable and praised for their comfort, especially in cold weather. The heating system effectively handled sub-freezing temperatures, and the vehicle's winter capabilities were impressive. The cabin offered smart storage solutions, with intuitive controls for passengers. The XC60 provided 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 63.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. It was also capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds.

The 2021 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered remarkable passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 12-way power adjustment and heating and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion, resulting in a lack of leg support. The cargo area measured 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, with additional storage compartments under the cargo floor. Folding the rear seats expanded the space to 58.9 cubic feet, though Acura quoted a maximum of 79.8 cubic feet based on a different measurement methodology.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which used a tablet-style touchpad interface. The system divided the screen into function quadrants, allowing users to access different features with a touch. While intuitive for some, it required a learning curve. The XC60 offered smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system provided exceptional sound quality.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console. The system mirrored the screen, allowing users to control functions by touching corresponding areas on the pad. While an improvement over similar systems, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX offered smartphone projection, voice recognition, and Key by Amazon In-Car Delivery. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, delivering excellent sound quality.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including LED headlights, blind-spot monitoring, collision avoidance, and more. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Volvo's semi-autonomous driving system, Pilot Assist, was available, integrating adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The XC60's top speed was limited to 112 mph for safety reasons.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with AcuraWatch, a collection of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.