2024 Kia EV9 vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2023 Acura RDX presented a unique blend of sharp, angular styling that was both distinctive and conventional. Its front showcased the signature Acura grille, which, despite its evolution over the years, seemed to be showing its age. The sleek wraparound headlights and deep creases in the bodywork gave the RDX a sporty and aggressive appearance. The side profile was marked by a distinctive character line that suggested forward movement, while the rear design was more conventional, resembling many other small SUVs.

Inside, the RDX diverged from the trend of horizontal dashboard layouts, opting instead for a vertical cockpit design. The centre stack flowed into the console, dominated by gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial, emphasizing performance. The 10.2-inch infotainment display sat atop the dash, complemented by a digital centre display with analog gauges. While the interior wasn't as modern as some rivals, it offered a familiar feel for those averse to the latest glass cockpit designs.

The 2024 Kia EV9, on the other hand, marked a bold step forward for Kia's EV lineup, with a design that was both cutting-edge and distinctly Kia. Its exterior featured a blockier style reminiscent of digital clock numbers, with body lines following octagonal wheel arches. The rear window angled sharply upwards, adding to its unique silhouette. The lighting signature was a standout feature, with "Star Map" daytime running lights outlining the "Digital Tiger Face" grille. The LED headlights varied by trim, appearing as clusters of dashes or dots. The top Land trim offered a Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, adding a constellation of light points visible when the vehicle was on.

The 2023 Acura RDX was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it featured standard all-wheel drive, known as "super-handling all-wheel drive" or "SH-AWD." The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, offering a sporty yet comfortable ride. Its handling was confident, with well-managed body roll and abundant traction, especially on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim with adaptive dampers.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the Light trim's single motor, rear-wheel-drive setup producing 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The base model had an EPA-estimated range of 370 kilometres. The Wind model, with a larger 99.8-kWh battery, offered 201 horsepower and a range of 489 kilometres. The top Land trim featured dual motors, all-wheel drive, and 379 horsepower with 516 lb-ft of torque. The GT-Line trim prioritized performance, with a range of 435 kilometres. The EV9's power delivery was smooth, and its handling was stable, with adjustable regenerative braking and a one-pedal driving mode.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample space for front-seat occupants, with generous cushioning and power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in the top trim. Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, and a panoramic moonroof were standard. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. Cargo space was competitive, with 835 litres behind the rear seats and 1,668 litres with the seats folded. The interior offered various storage options, though the centre stack's design could have been more space-efficient.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering 1,004 millimetres of headroom, surpassing competitors like the Kia Telluride and BMW X7. Third-row legroom ranged from 783 to 813 mm, depending on the middle row's configuration. The EV9 could seat up to seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs available on higher trims. Cargo space was competitive, with 572 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,313 litres with only the front-row seats in place. The interior featured a floating centre console, providing storage space, though the shallow top-closing cubby might disappoint some.

The 2023 Acura RDX's infotainment system used a touchpad controller, which was challenging to operate, especially while driving. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity improved the experience. The system featured sharp graphics and quick responses, with standard Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio premium audio system.

The 2024 Kia EV9 featured a three-screen curved display, with a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 5-inch Climate Display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad, were standard. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker Meridian Premium Audio system and a head-up display. The EV9's connectedness was noteworthy, with over-the-air updates and the Kia Connect store allowing owners to purchase additional features and upgrades.

The 2023 Acura RDX received top safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side crash protection and a Top Safety Pick+ 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 2024 Kia EV9 offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, with standard adaptive cruise control, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision avoidance. The Blind-spot View Monitor and reverse parking collision avoidance assist were available on higher trims. The EV9 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA but received the highest rating from Euro NCAP.