2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Volvo XC90

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 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 a destination charge. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375 in Canada, boasted high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin, although some design elements like the vertical air inlets were less appealing.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's past boxy designs. The XC90's purposeful yet understated front end, assertive grille, and distinctive “Thor’s Hammer” headlights added a modern flair. The Ultimate trim, with its 21-inch wheels and Platinum Grey paint, exuded a sense of drama and richness. Inside, the XC90's elegant design featured a two-tone leather steering wheel, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist interior, with wood deco inlays, offered a clean and sophisticated look, though it lacked ample storage space for smaller items.

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 was lower than the rated 10.3 L/100 km, averaging 11.4 L/100 km during testing. The RDX featured Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, capable of delivering up to 70% of the engine’s power to a single rear wheel, enhancing its 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.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine with mild-hybrid technology, replacing the older T5 and T6 engines. This powertrain produced 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The mild-hybrid system, with a 13-volt starter generator, improved fuel-saving auto stop-start technology. The XC90's eight-speed automatic transmission provided smooth acceleration, and its brakes offered a solid pedal feel. While the XC90 lacked extensive customizable driving dynamics, its simplicity appealed to some drivers. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with minimal road and wind noise, despite its larger dimensions.

The 2022 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, offered ample space for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats provided comfort and support, while the back seat, though less comfortable, offered a flat load floor when folded. The RDX's cargo space was generous, with 835 litres available and 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior exuded Scandinavian minimalism, though it lacked storage space for smaller items. The second row was comfortable and spacious, but accessing the third row was challenging. The XC90 offered 356 litres of cargo space with the third row in place, expanding to 1,183 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 1,856 litres. Despite its smaller size compared to typical three-row SUVs, the XC90 provided a comfortable and pleasant driving experience.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. While the TTI offered a direct one-to-one relationship between the touchpad and screen, it was more complex than 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 in higher trims.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran on Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant. While the system offered advanced natural-language recognition, some functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, leading to frustration. Keyless entry was standard, and a head-up display was optional. The XC90's tech offerings, though impressive, required some acclimation for new users.

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. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.

The 2023 Volvo XC90, known for its safety legacy, also earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The XC90's Pilot Assist technology provided advanced driver assistance, maintaining distance from other vehicles and offering lane-keeping support.