2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Lincoln Nautilus

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus was a visually appealing SUV, striking a balance between character and elegance without appearing overly simplistic. Its design was complemented by a welcoming Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence, which added a touch of sophistication. Inside, the test vehicle featured light grey premium leather upholstery, with other colour options available, creating a luxurious atmosphere. However, the centre console design and some chrome-plated plastic elements detracted slightly from the overall opulence. The Nautilus Reserve model, priced at $59,800 CAD, offered optional Ultra Comfort 22-way power-adjustable front seats with Active Motion massage, enhancing long-distance travel comfort.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX required a keen eye to notice its subtle styling updates, inspired by the larger MDX model. The RDX's grille surround, bumper styling, wheel designs, and paint colours received updates, with the PMC Edition standing out in exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint. The RDX lineup included various trims, with prices ranging from $45,800 to $61,500 CAD. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375 CAD, boasted high-quality interior materials, solid build quality, and a quieter cabin. While the new vertical air inlets on the front fascia were not universally loved, the RDX maintained a stylish edge over many competitors.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus came standard with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive in Canada. An optional twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 engine, producing 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, was available for an additional $4,000 CAD. The Nautilus offered Comfort, Normal, and Sport driving modes, adjusting powertrain behaviour, steering effort, and adaptive suspension. The V6 engine, with a 68-litre fuel tank, had a combined fuel consumption rating of 11.2 L/100 km, achieving an average of 9.4 L/100 km over 1,400 kilometres. The Nautilus excelled as a road-tripper, offering a quiet and comfortable ride, enhanced by a 19-speaker Revel audio system.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) in Canada. The RDX's drivetrain provided an engaging driving experience, with a fuel consumption rating of 10.3 L/100 km, though it averaged 11.4 L/100 km during testing. The SH-AWD system delivered up to 70 percent of the engine's power to a single rear wheel, enhancing cornering performance. The RDX's revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness. Despite its dynamic prowess, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

Inside the 2022 Lincoln Nautilus, occupants enjoyed smooth leather, ambient lighting, and a quiet drive, thanks to Active Noise Control and acoustic glass. The front seats were heated and ventilated, with a heated steering wheel. The optional 22-way power front seats offered exceptional comfort, even on long journeys. Rear passengers benefited from heated outboard seats and air conditioning vents, though legroom was tight for a midsize SUV. Practical storage was adequate, with a hands-free power liftgate revealing 1,055 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,948 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Acura RDX, a compact SUV, provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system. The RDX's 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats were comfortable, while the rear seats lacked support. The power liftgate opened to 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded. Hidden storage compartments added practicality.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Sync 4 software. Features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Lincoln Connect, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The test vehicle also had a connected navigation system, wireless smartphone charging, and a 19-speaker Revel audio system. The Phone as a Key feature allowed smartphone-based unlocking and starting.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, pairing a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. While the TTI required acclimation, the RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Standard features included satellite radio and AcuraLink connected services. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the A-Spec Platinum Elite trim featuring a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system and a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus came equipped with the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 1.0 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The Black Label trim added Co-Pilot360 1.0 Plus, featuring adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system. The Nautilus earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

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.