2023 Acura RDX vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX presented itself as a sophisticated luxury SUV with a range of trim packages, including the standard and Type S versions. In Canada, the MDX was available with Tech, A-Spec, and Platinum Elite packages, while the Type S offered a standard spec or an Ultra package. Prices ranged from $59,300 to $84,400, excluding a $2,375 destination charge. The Type S Ultra trim, with its Apex Blue Pearl paint and Orchid interior, set high expectations for luxury and performance, though it occasionally fell short. The MDX Type S featured subtle design elements, such as chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels, contributing to its understated yet elegant appearance. Inside, the Type S Ultra boasted quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, though some design choices, like the gloss black plastic, detracted from usability.

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 signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek headlights, gave the RDX a sporty and aggressive look. The side profile featured a distinctive character line, while the rear was more traditional. Inside, the RDX opted for a vertical dashboard layout, with a centre stack of controls flowing into the console. The cockpit emphasized performance with gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. While the interior wasn't as modern as some rivals, it offered a familiar feel for those averse to new glass cockpits. The RDX's cabin, though updated with newer tech features, retained an older design aesthetic.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, a significant increase over the standard 3.5-litre V6. Despite the power boost, the Type S weighed 130 kilograms more than the lightest standard MDX with AWD. The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel. The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance enhancements didn't always harmonize, leading to issues like indecisive transmission and poor brake modulation. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the Type S averaging 13.9 L/100 km during testing, falling short of official ratings.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, the RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, a competitive time for its class. The turbo powertrain provided immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine sound. The RDX's handling was confident, with well-managed body roll and ample traction from the advanced AWD system. Adaptive dampers on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim ensured a sporty yet comfortable ride, smoothing over road imperfections with ease. The RDX's performance, combined with its easy-to-drive nature, made it an attractive option for many shoppers.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seats, accommodating up to seven passengers. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though the seats didn't fully support the model's performance-oriented mission. The second-row seats could slide and tilt for easier third-row access, though the third row was best suited for children. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with 461 litres behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded. However, the interior design prioritized style over storage, with limited space in the centre console.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided generous front seat space, with additional power adjustments in the top trim level. The rear seats comfortably accommodated average-sized adults, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The RDX offered 835 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,668 litres with the seats folded. A deep bin under the cargo floor added versatility, while remote seatback levers made transformations easy. The RDX's interior featured various storage options, though the centre stack's design limited available space.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display, though the latter wasn't touch-sensitive. Instead, Acura employed a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console, which proved challenging to use. The system supported Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, though the native voice recognition system was less effective. The MDX offered several sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system delivering impressive sound quality. A 10.5-inch head-up display was available with higher trim packages, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2023 Acura RDX also used a touchpad infotainment controller, which was less intuitive than traditional touchscreens. The system improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity, allowing for easier operation. The RDX's infotainment system featured 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. Despite the system's capabilities, the touchpad interface remained a drawback.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with a suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Standard features in Canada included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars for frontal-impact protection.

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