2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 marked a significant departure from its predecessor, the original Ioniq, by establishing itself as a standalone brand focused solely on electric vehicles. This new model showcased a futuristic design with its Parametric Pixel theme, reminiscent of retro gaming aesthetics. The exterior was a blend of minimalistic lines and intricate lighting details, creating a concept car-like appearance. Inside, the Ioniq 5 offered a serene "Living Space" environment with sustainable materials and a Relaxation mode for the driver's seat, emphasizing comfort and eco-friendliness.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling updates inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. The RDX's design changes included a revised grille surround, updated bumper styling, and new wheel designs. The limited-production PMC Edition stood out with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and Orchid white interior. The RDX's interior boasted high-quality materials and a quieter cabin, enhancing its appeal as a luxury compact SUV. Despite some polarizing design elements, the RDX maintained a sense of style and comfort, making it a strong contender in its segment.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains and configurations, catering to various driving preferences. In Canada, it came in two trims: Essential and Preferred, with options for long-range and all-wheel drive (AWD). The base model featured a 125-kW rear-mounted electric motor, delivering 168 horsepower and a range of 354 kilometres. The Preferred long-range variant boasted a 168-kW motor with 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, offering an impressive 488-kilometre range. The AWD version combined a dual-motor system, producing 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 414 km. The Ioniq 5's performance was characterized by its smooth handling and quiet ride, thanks to advanced noise-reduction features.

The 2022 Acura RDX, on the other hand, was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, generating 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a spirited driving experience. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced the RDX's agility, especially on winding roads. The RDX's adaptive-damping suspension and revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered a comfortable ride in Comfort mode and increased responsiveness in Sport mode. Despite its engaging driving dynamics, the RDX fell short of being a true performance SUV, lacking the thrill of some German competitors.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5's Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) allowed for a spacious interior, with a wheelbase longer than the seven-passenger Hyundai Palisade. This five-passenger electric SUV offered 3,786 litres of interior volume, surpassing rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4. The Ioniq 5's interior featured a moveable centre console, flat floor, and comfortable leatherette seats, providing a versatile and relaxing environment for passengers.

The 2022 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, provided ample space for four adults and their luggage. The interior showcased a sporty design with a focus on the driver's experience. However, the RDX's control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface (TTI), required some acclimation. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, while the rear seats, though spacious, lacked the same level of comfort. The RDX offered a generous 835 litres of cargo space, with additional hidden storage compartments beneath the load floor.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 impressed with its advanced technology, featuring a high-voltage energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in just 18 minutes. The Ioniq 5's infotainment system included a redesigned Blue Link app, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system were elegantly designed and easy to read, even with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Acura RDX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller, offering a unique but complex user experience. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The available ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system with 16 speakers provided an immersive audio experience. Despite the TTI's learning curve, the RDX's technology package offered a comprehensive suite of features.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) that included lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance. Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system, adapted to the driver's habits through machine learning. While crash-safety ratings were not yet available, Hyundai's track record suggested high safety standards for the Ioniq 5.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, maintaining its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The AcuraWatch suite of driver-assist features included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The RDX's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems were generally effective, though not as refined as some competitors. The NHTSA awarded the RDX a five-star overall crash-test rating, reinforcing its safety credentials.