2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for a more modern appeal, was available in four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. Each model offered various trim levels, including base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury, with base MSRPs ranging from $47,400 to $59,950, excluding a $2,145 destination charge. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, was the focus of many reviews. The NX's design, characterized by its signature spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate, was unmistakably Lexus. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. Interior options included NuLuxe simulated leather or real leather with open-pore wood trim, and a panoramic moonroof was available for the first time. The F Sport trim featured unique styling elements and sport-bolstered seats, while the minimalist interior design aimed for simplicity, though some controls integrated into the touchscreen were less intuitive.

The 2022 Acura RDX, with subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, featured updates to its grille surround, bumper styling, wheel designs, and paint colours. The limited-production RDX PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included the base model, Technology, A-Spec, A-Spec Platinum Elite, and PMC Edition, with starting prices from $45,800 to $61,500, excluding a $2,375 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. Despite some controversial design elements, the RDX maintained a stylish edge over many competitors.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower and an estimated 61 kilometres of electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The NX 350 F Sport added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The NX 350's turbocharged powertrain was more rewarding than the base NX 250's 203-horsepower engine. The F Sport trim offered a more dynamic driving experience, though the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of German rivals. The NX was not designed for off-road use, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine with 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) in Canada. The RDX's powertrain delivered enjoyable driving dynamics, though fuel consumption averaged 11.4 L/100 km, higher than the estimated 10.3 L/100 km. The RDX's adaptive-damping suspension and revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) provided a smoother ride in Comfort mode and greater responsiveness in Sport mode. The RDX offered a quieter cabin, thanks to sound-deadening measures, and was enjoyable to drive in various conditions. However, it did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, and driving enthusiasts might prefer German alternatives.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered more interior room for passengers and cargo, though the new dashboard design created a cozy feeling. Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and padded surfaces enhanced comfort. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations, with rear air conditioning vents, heated cushions, and USB ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, and the cargo space increased by 14% to 643 litres, expandable to 1,328 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Acura RDX provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior emphasized a sporty driving position, though the control layout required a learning curve. The RDX's front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation and a heated steering wheel. The back seat, however, lacked support for adults. The RDX featured a power liftgate with available hands-free operation, revealing 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen optional. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Assistant technology. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The NX offered a digital mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, and various connected services, though the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, pairing a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. The system required a learning curve, but Alexa Built-in and steering wheel controls reduced reliance on the TTI. The RDX included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an available wireless charging pad. Three premium sound systems were available, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system offering 16 speakers. The RDX also featured a 10.5-inch head-up display in the A-Spec Platinum Elite trim.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Oncoming Pedestrian Detection. The NX also offered a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional safety features were available in packages, including rear pedestrian detection and a panoramic view monitoring system.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The standard AcuraWatch system included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The RDX's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems were mostly accurate, though not as refined as some competitors. The NHTSA awarded the RDX a five-star overall crash-test rating, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.