2023 Acura RDX vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a sportier and more svelte design compared to the Tesla Model Y, reminiscent of the Ford Mustang Mach-E. It appeared lower and wider, with a highback tail featuring a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The wheels were pushed to the corners, giving the body a curvy, hip-like appearance similar to a Porsche 911. The headlights had an aggressive V-shaped pattern, and the wedgy profile was accentuated by an angled roofline and twin ducts in the rear spoiler. The matte silver paint added to its smooth and sleek look.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura RDX had a sharp, angular style that was unique yet conventional enough to blend in. The signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights, gave the front a sporty look. A distinctive character line ran diagonally along the side, suggesting movement. The rear was more conventional, resembling other small SUVs. Inside, the RDX featured a vertical cockpit layout with a center stack of controls, emphasizing performance with gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. The interior had a mix of digital and analog elements, offering a familiar feel for those averse to modern glass cockpits.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly the GT-Line e-AWD model, delivered 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque from its dual electric motors. It accelerated to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, with a top-power GT trim promising 576 hp and a sub-3.5-second 0-60 time. The EV6 excelled in handling, with quick torque distribution and multiple regenerative braking settings, including a strong I-Pedal mode for one-pedal driving. However, cold weather affected its range, delivering only 65% of the 274-mile EPA estimate. Charging was efficient, accepting up to 240 kW, though real-world charging speeds varied.

The 2023 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It reached 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available SH-AWD. The RDX offered a sporty driving experience with well-managed body roll and a comfortable ride. The engine provided a pleasing sound, and the transmission was responsive. The RDX's handling was confident, with the AWD system offering ample traction and smoothing out road imperfections.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements like pop-out door handles and a dual-function touchscreen for climate and stereo controls. It offered generous legroom and headroom, though cargo space was limited to 24 cubic feet behind the seats. The EV6 had a towing capacity of 2,300 pounds and an onboard power generator for 120-volt equipment.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample space in the front seats, with additional adjustments in top trims. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, enhanced by a panoramic sunroof. Cargo space was generous, with 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 79.8 cubic feet with seats folded. The RDX offered practical storage solutions, though the center stack design could be more space-efficient.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, though it required a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It featured a 360-degree camera, customizable engine sounds, and an augmented reality HUD. Most tech features came standard, though Kia Connect was disabled in Massachusetts due to legal compliance issues.

The 2023 Acura RDX used a touchpad infotainment controller, which was challenging to use while driving. The system improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. Standard features included a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring, with a premium 16-speaker ELS audio system in higher trims.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety ratings but offered impressive tech, including HDA, lane-keeping, and cross-traffic alerts. Higher trims added features like evasive steering assist and adaptive cruise with machine learning.

The 2023 Acura RDX received top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, with standard features like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Technology package added parking sensors, while the Advance package included a surround-view camera and HUD.