2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround and bumper styling. Acura also refreshed the wheel designs and paint colours, including the exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl for the limited-production PMC Edition. This edition was hand-built at Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, where the NSX sports car is also produced. The 2022 lineup included the base model, Technology, A-Spec, A-Spec Platinum Elite, and the PMC Edition, with starting prices ranging from $45,800 to $61,500, excluding a $2,375 destination charge. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375 in Canada, offered high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin, although the new vertical air inlets on the front fascia were not universally loved.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura RDX maintained its sharp, angular style, but the signature grille was beginning to show its age. The front end featured sleek wraparound headlights and deep creases for a sporty look, while the side was marked by a distinctive character line. The rear styling was more conventional, resembling other small SUVs. Inside, the RDX opted for a vertical dashboard layout, with a centre stack of controls flowing into the console, dominated by gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. The 10.2-inch infotainment display sat atop the dash, and the instrument panel combined digital and analog elements. While the interior design was not as modern as some rivals, it offered familiarity for those averse to the latest glass cockpit trends.

The 2022 Acura RDX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, delivering 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. This engine provided a lively driving experience, although fuel consumption was higher than the rated 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres, with an average of 11.4 L/100 km during testing. The 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard, and the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system was included in Canada. The RDX's adaptive-damping suspension and revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered a smoother ride in Comfort mode and greater responsiveness in Sport mode. Despite its enjoyable driving dynamics, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, and driving enthusiasts might prefer German alternatives.

The 2023 Acura RDX retained the same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The SH-AWD system was standard in Canada, providing excellent traction and handling. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, with a responsive throttle and a pleasing engine and exhaust sound. The adaptive dampers on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim ensured a sporty yet comfortable ride, smoothing over road imperfections with ease. The RDX's performance was broad and easy to drive, appealing to a wide range of shoppers.

The 2022 Acura RDX offered ample space for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats were comfortable, while the back seat was less supportive. The RDX provided 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded, and included a power liftgate with available hands-free operation.

In the 2023 Acura RDX, the front seats offered generous cushioning and additional power adjustments in the top trim level. The standard heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control, ensured comfort. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The cargo area offered 835 litres of space, with a deep bin under the floor and remote seatback levers for easy expansion to 1,668 litres. The centre console provided various storage options, though the gear selector buttons and drive mode dial occupied significant space.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which required users to match finger location on the touchpad with the cursor location on the screen. While this system was complex, it included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system available in higher trims.

The 2023 Acura RDX continued with the touchpad infotainment controller, which was challenging to use, especially while driving. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity improved the experience. The system featured sharp graphics and quick responses, with standard Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio premium audio system in Canada.

The 2022 Acura RDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA. It included structural upgrades for side-impact safety and new features like a rear seatbelt reminder system. The AcuraWatch suite added forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, with parking sensors and low-speed automatic braking available in higher trims.

The 2023 Acura RDX also earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The Platinum Elite A-Spec package added a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The systems generally performed well, with smooth adaptive cruise control but some issues with lane-keep assist.