2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

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, including the base model, Technology, A-Spec, A-Spec Platinum Elite, and the PMC Edition, with prices starting 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 rivals.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented an appealing three-row, midsize crossover design, showcasing the modern Lincoln face and grille. The Aviator Grand Touring model featured a twin-turbo V6 engine paired with a hybrid system, offering impressive power. However, the wheel designs on the Grand Touring were considered plain, detracting from its overall look. The Aviator's interior was luxurious, with features like electric, light-touch door handles, soft-close doors, and ambient lighting. The cabin boasted high-end materials, including soft leather and a simulated suede headliner. Despite some chrome detailing appearing cheap, the Aviator's interior was undeniably fancy, though it leaned more towards Art Deco than Japandi style.

The 2022 Acura RDX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, producing 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque between 1,600 rpm and 4,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered an enjoyable driving experience. The RDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, standard in Canada, provided excellent torque-vectoring capabilities, enhancing its performance on winding roads. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness. Despite its dynamic driving characteristics, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, making it less thrilling than some German competitors.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, offered impressive power with 494 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 630 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. It provided 34 kilometres of electric driving range and averaged 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured various driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, Conserve, Normal, and Excite, allowing for efficient power management. Despite its power, the drivetrain exhibited unpredictability, with inconsistent acceleration and braking behaviour. The Aviator's Dynamic Handling Package with adaptive-damping suspension provided a smooth ride, but it lacked the fun factor of a true performance SUV.

The 2022 Acura RDX, a compact SUV, offered 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 RDX's front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation, while the back seat lacked comfort for adults. The power liftgate revealed 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were spacious, but the third row was cramped for adults. The Aviator offered 519 litres of cargo space with the third row in use, expanding to 1,183 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,200 litres with all seats down.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which required a learning curve due to its unique touchpad design. Despite its complexity, the RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of premium sound systems. The A-Spec Platinum Elite trim offered a 10.5-inch head-up display and a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system running the older Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and the optional Phone As A Key digital key system. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were user-friendly, while parking sensors and a surround-view camera system aided in parking.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, maintaining its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It featured a rear seatbelt reminder system and the AcuraWatch suite of driver-assist systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, and automatic emergency braking. The Aviator's driver aids performed well on straight highways but struggled in dense traffic. The standard Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.