2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Honda CR-V

The 2022 Acura RDX presented subtle styling changes inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. These included updates to the grille surround, front and rear bumper styling, wheel designs, and paint colours. The limited-production RDX 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, justified its cost with high-quality materials, solid build quality, and a quieter interior, although some design elements like the vertical air inlets were less appealing.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V adopted a cleaner and slightly more aggressive look with its blunt nose, long hood, and stretched wheelbase. While it lacked the personality of its predecessor, the conservative styling was expected to age well. The CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels, dark-tinted rear privacy glass, and leather-wrapped seats, steering wheel, and shift knob. The dashboard, inspired by the latest Civic, included metal mesh trim and a larger touchscreen infotainment system. The CR-V EX-L also offered a power-adjustable front passenger seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and power rear liftgate. Prices in Canada started at $34,240 for the CR-V LX-B with FWD, with the EX-L AWD priced at $43,390 before fees.

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 lb-ft 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 L/100 km, averaging 11.4 L/100 km during testing. The RDX featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which could direct up to 70% of the engine’s power to a single rear wheel. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension enhanced the RDX’s ride comfort and responsiveness. Despite its dynamic capabilities, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2023 Honda CR-V retained its 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine from the previous generation, producing 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 1,700 and 5,000 rpm. The engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which detracted from the driving experience with its droning noise during acceleration. However, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, with a well-tuned suspension, steering, and brakes. It managed speed bumps and uneven pavement with ease, providing a comfortable and engaging drive. The CR-V achieved impressive fuel economy, averaging 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous evaluation route, slightly better than the rated 8.4 L/100 km.

The 2022 Acura RDX offered ample space for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the cabin's sense of space. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The RDX’s front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation, while the rear seats lacked support for adults. The power liftgate revealed 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Honda CR-V claimed to be the roomiest yet, with a low seating position that felt more car-like. The front seats were comfortable, with standard heated seats and dual-zone climate control. The second row offered generous legroom and a high seating position, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The CR-V provided ample storage options, including a large centre bin and door storage. The cargo area offered 1,113 litres of space, expandable to 2,166 litres with the rear seats folded, though these figures were slightly reduced in the Hybrid model.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which required a learning curve due to its unique touchpad control. The system included a 10.2-inch display, Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system featuring 16 speakers. The A-Spec Platinum Elite trim included a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2023 Honda CR-V came with a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with the EX-L trim upgrading to a 9-inch display. The EX-L offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, wireless charging, and an eight-speaker sound system. The top-tier Touring Hybrid included a Bose premium sound system and navigation. While the new infotainment systems were an improvement, they did not surpass competitors in terms of features.

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.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured improved driver-assist systems under the Honda Sensing umbrella, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. New features included a seatbelt reminder system, driver monitoring system, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure and new airbag designs enhanced occupant protection. The CR-V earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though the NHTSA had not yet tested the new model.