2023 Acura RDX vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson was built on a new platform, offering North American buyers a long-wheelbase model with two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. Its front showcased Hyundai's new vehicle face, with a parametric grille that cleverly concealed LED daytime running lights, Bi-LED headlights, and LED front turn signals. When lit, these lights formed a distinctive shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird's wings. The Tucson's side profile borrowed design elements from the Hyundai Elantra, featuring a silver D-pillar that created a floating roof effect. At the rear, the Tucson sported LED-illuminated toothy taillights, adding a unique touch to its design. Depending on the trim level, the Tucson rode on either 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, with high-end models boasting premium fascias, skid plates, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, featuring stain- and odor-resistant cloth seats, with options for sport combination and leather-trimmed seats. The dashboard's horizontal lines and uncluttered aesthetic contributed to a sense of spaciousness.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura RDX was known for its sharp, angular style, though it remained conventional enough to blend in with other small SUVs. The front featured Acura's signature grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights and deep bodywork creases, giving it a sporty and aggressive look. The side was marked by a distinctive character line, while the rear design was more conventional. Inside, the RDX took a different approach with a vertical cockpit layout, dominated by gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. The 10.2-inch infotainment display sat atop the dash, complemented by a digital centre display with analog gauges. While the RDX's interior wasn't as modern as some rivals, it offered a familiar feel for those averse to new glass cockpits.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain variants: a 2.5-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. The ICE engine delivered 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid powertrain, with a total system output of 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, provided a more engaging driving experience. The Tucson Hybrid was notably more powerful than competitors like the Ford Escape Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The Tucson's AWD system, standard on the hybrid and available on ICE models, performed admirably in off-road testing. Fuel efficiency varied, with the hybrid achieving 6.4 L/100 km combined, while the ICE models ranged from 8.2 to 9.0 L/100 km combined, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2023 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The RDX featured standard all-wheel drive, known as "super-handling all-wheel drive" (SH-AWD). It accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, offering a sporty driving experience with immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine sound. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and ample traction. The Platinum Elite A-Spec trim included adaptive dampers, enhancing cornering prowess without sacrificing ride comfort. The RDX's performance, combined with its comfortable ride, made it an attractive option for many shoppers.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson, a budget-friendly compact SUV, offered a well-appointed interior comparable to its competitors like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Rogue. It featured a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with an eight-way version available on higher trims. Heated front seats were standard, with options for ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and memory settings. The Tucson's new platform provided more passenger and cargo space, with rear seats offering 90 mm more legroom than the RAV4. The cabin comfortably accommodated a family of four, with 1,095 litres of cargo space, comparable to the Forester, RAV4, and CR-V. The rear featured a 60-40 split-folding bench seat and a dual-level cargo floor.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered ample space in the front seats, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in the top trim. The standard heated and ventilated front seats provided quick comfort, while the rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably. The RDX's cabin felt open and airy, thanks to the large panoramic sunroof. Cargo space behind the rear seats measured 835 litres, with a deep bin under the cargo floor for added utility. Folding the rear seats expanded capacity to 1,668 litres, with remote seatback levers for easy transformation. The RDX provided various storage options for smaller items, though the centre stack's design could be more space-efficient.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, HD Radio, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation, a fully digital instrument cluster, and additional USB outlets. The touchpoints on the centre console were responsive, though their flat design made them challenging to use while driving. Steering wheel controls and voice commands were more practical for operation.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a touchpad infotainment controller, which, while better than Lexus's version, still posed challenges. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen, requiring precise touchpad use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity improved the experience, allowing for easier operation. The RDX's infotainment system boasted sharp graphics, quick responses, and logically arranged menus. Standard features included Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio premium audio system.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been tested by the IIHS or NHTSA. It featured the Hyundai SmartSense Safety Feature suite, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Additional safety features were available, such as blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. Hyundai offered a 5-year/100,000-kilometre limited warranty.

The 2023 Acura RDX received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and parking sensors. The Platinum Elite A-Spec package added a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The RDX's safety systems performed well, with smooth adaptive cruise control and effective lane-keep assist.