2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Kia Carnival

The 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. Updates included a refreshed grille surround, modified bumper styling, and new wheel designs. The limited-production PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior, named after Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio. The RDX lineup offered various trims, with prices starting from $45,800 to $61,500, excluding destination charges. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375 in Canada, boasted high-quality materials and a quieter interior, although some design elements like the vertical air inlets were less appealing.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival stood out with its distinctive style and upscale image, making it a compelling choice in the minivan segment. The Carnival came in several trims, with prices ranging from $35,795 to $49,595, excluding destination fees. The SX trim, with its Storm Blue paint, featured high-tech lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim. Inside, dual instrumentation and infotainment screens added sophistication, while dual power sunroofs provided ample natural light. The interior materials were of good quality, though the black alloy wheels were less imaginative.

The 2022 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The RDX offered a smooth ride with its adaptive-damping suspension and Integrated Dynamics System, providing distinct driving modes. Despite its enjoyable driving dynamics, it didn’t qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, produced 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered a towing capacity of 1,587 kg and various driving modes. While lacking AWD and a hybrid option, the Carnival provided ample power and a firm ride quality. The brakes, however, showed signs of fading during a mountain descent. Overall, the Carnival was satisfying to drive, though the Honda Odyssey offered a more athletic experience.

The 2022 Acura RDX, a compact SUV, provided ample space for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty design, though the control layout required a learning curve. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, while the rear seats lacked comfort for adults. The RDX offered 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, resembling an SUV from the driver’s seat, offered three types of upholstery and a three-zone climate control system. The SX trim featured VIP Lounge Seats, which were luxurious but limited cargo space to 2,460 litres. Without these seats, the Carnival provided a maximum cargo space of 4,110 litres. The third-row seat was spacious, and the smart power liftgate revealed a deep cargo well with 1,139 litres of space.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a TTI infotainment system with a 10.2-inch display and touchpad controller, which required acclimation. It included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the top trims featuring a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX boasted 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering a visually impressive experience. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year Kia Connect subscription. The Carnival featured Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and a passenger view camera, though the Bose audio system was mediocre.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, maintaining its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It included a rear seatbelt reminder and the AcuraWatch suite of driver-assist features. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with standard collision warnings and avoidance systems. It included a rear-seat reminder system and adaptive cruise control. The EX trim added a Junction Turning Detection system. The Carnival was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though standard headlights received a Poor rating.