2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Acura RDX underwent 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 RDX 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 featured various trims, with starting prices ranging from $45,800 to $61,500, excluding a destination charge. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375 in Canada, offered high-quality interior materials, solid build quality, and a quieter cabin, justifying its cost. Despite some design quirks, the RDX maintained a stylish flair compared to its competitors.

The 2023 Lexus GX boasted a commanding presence with its massive spindle grille, 206 mm ground clearance, and 1,885 mm overall height. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint options. Despite its imposing front end, the GX's dimensions seemed to shrink along the sides, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. The GX's design leaned sleeker compared to Toyota's blocky designs, offering better visibility for technical driving. However, the interior featured a disappointing amount of plastic, reflecting its low sales volume. Despite this, luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery were present.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured 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 powertrain, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided an enjoyable driving experience, though fuel efficiency fell short of its rating, averaging 11.4 L/100 km. The RDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, standard in Canada, offered impressive torque-vectoring capabilities, enhancing cornering performance. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness. Despite its dynamic prowess, the RDX didn't qualify for Acura's Type S badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 offered a satisfying linear power delivery. However, its fuel economy was less appealing, with estimates of 16.2 L/100 km in the city and 14.5 combined. The GX's weight contributed to predictable but manageable body roll. The Torsen limited-slip differential and 4WD system enhanced off-road capability, making it user-friendly in challenging conditions. Despite its age, the GX's driving dynamics remained communicative, with strong brakes and a capable suspension system.

The 2022 Acura RDX, a compact SUV, offered ample space for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. Its interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The A-Spec trims provided comfortable, supportive seats with available ventilation, while the back seat lacked comfort for adults. The RDX's cargo area offered 835 litres of space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus GX retained practical cubby space, with a deep centre console bin and convenient cupholders. The decision to use hard buttons instead of haptic-touch interfaces was a welcome choice, though the abundance of controls required familiarization. The second row offered comfort, while the third row was too tight for regular use. The GX's side-hinged trunk door posed challenges, and its cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,832 litres with both rows folded.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which required a learning curve due to its unique touchpad-to-screen correspondence. Despite its complexity, the RDX 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 top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system featuring 16 speakers.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, revamped in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering standard features like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. However, the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind newer Lexus models. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a real 4WD system, Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, and various driving aids for challenging terrains.

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 and enhanced AcuraWatch systems, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.

The 2023 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, but it featured the Lexus Safety System+ with advanced driver assistance systems. While missing some top-end features, the GX included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. Despite its older design, the GX's safety technology was up-to-date.