2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2022 Acura RDX presented subtle styling changes inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. These updates included modifications to the grille surround and front and rear bumper styling, along with new wheel designs and paint colours. The limited-production PMC Edition stood out with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and Orchid white interior, named after Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio. The RDX lineup offered a range of trims, from the base model to the A-Spec Platinum Elite, with prices starting at $45,800 and reaching up to $61,500, excluding destination charges. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375 in Canada, boasted high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin, enhancing its appeal despite some divisive styling elements.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, complemented by a stately presence just shy of 5 metres in length. The Prestige trim tester featured 22-inch alloy wheels and a matte Brunswick Green paint job, adding to its elegance. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats and a dash split by thin, horizontal air vents created a luxurious atmosphere. The centre console, adorned with three large dials, controlled infotainment, transmission, and drive modes. While the 14.5-inch infotainment screen seemed somewhat out of place, the spacious and opulent interior made the GV80 a delightful place to spend time.

The 2022 Acura RDX was powered by 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, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided an enjoyable driving experience, though fuel efficiency fell short of its Natural Resources Canada rating, averaging 11.4 L/100 km. The standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system in Canada offered impressive torque-vectoring capabilities, enhancing the RDX's agility on winding roads. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness, while sound-deadening measures contributed to a quieter cabin. Despite its dynamic prowess, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6, with the latter producing 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. While not particularly nimble, the GV80 excelled at highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, ensured a serene highway commute. However, its acceleration to 100 km/h in about five and a half seconds lagged behind some competitors. The GV80's handling was competent but lacked the precision of its German rivals.

The 2022 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered ample space for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of openness. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a distinctive IDS driving mode knob on the dashboard. However, the control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system, required a learning curve. The A-Spec trims boasted comfortable leather seats, while the back seat, though spacious, lacked support. The RDX provided 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with luxurious features. Standard amenities included heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The Ergo driver's seat offered fatigue-reducing adjustments, while Nappa leather seats added to the opulence. A third-row option was available, though legroom was limited. The GV80 featured a proximity key, tri-zone climate control, and a 21-speaker Lexicon sound system. With 988 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 2,378 litres, and a towing capacity of 2,720 kilograms, the GV80 offered impressive utility.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the TTI infotainment system, combining a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. While the system offered a direct one-to-one relationship between touchpad and screen, it was considered unnecessarily complex compared to traditional touchscreens. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Three premium sound systems were available, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system offering 16 speakers. The A-Spec Platinum Elite trim included a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, the dial offered a tactile experience. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though not wirelessly. The GV80 featured remote smart parking assist, allowing the vehicle to park itself without the driver inside. Wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet ensured devices remained charged.

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 system and enhanced AcuraWatch driver-assist systems, such as forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Blind-Spot View Monitor system provided a video feed of the blind spot in the digital gauge cluster. Highway Drive Assist offered hands-on/eyes-up driving aid on approved highways. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Good rating for crashworthiness from the IIHS.