2023 Acura RDX vs 2024 Kia Sorento

The 2023 Acura RDX presented a sharp, angular style that was unique in its class, yet it maintained a conventional enough appearance to blend in with the crowd. The front featured the signature Acura grille, which, despite its evolution over the years, seemed to be showing its age and was in need of a refresh. The sleek wraparound headlights and deep creases in the bodywork and hood gave the nose a sporty and aggressive look. The side was accentuated by a distinctive character line that suggested forward movement, even when parked. The rear, however, was more conventional and resembled many other small SUVs in its styling.

Inside, the RDX took a different approach from the horizontal dashboard layout favoured by many, opting instead for a vertical cockpit design. The centre stack of controls flowed into the centre console, dominated by gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial, emphasizing Acura's focus on performance. The 10.2-inch infotainment display sat atop the dash, with a digital centre display flanked by analog gauges. While the interior wasn't as modern as some rivals with oversized touchscreens, it offered a familiar layout for those averse to the new glass cockpits. However, those seeking the newest, edgy design might have found it lacking.

The 2024 Kia Sorento underwent its first major visual update since its 2021 debut, aligning more closely with its siblings like the Telluride and EV9. The Sorento's exterior featured a robust new grille, vertically stacked LED projector-beam headlights, and wing-like amber LED daytime running lights, giving it a larger and more intimidating presence. The rear received subtle updates, with higher trims boasting LED taillights and new bumpers. The X-Line and X-Pro trims offered even more aggressive looks with blacked-out wheels and earth-tone paint colours.

Inside, the Sorento's cabin was modern and upscale, with a new dashboard that mirrored the EV9's horizontal expanse. The gauge cluster and infotainment displays were combined under a single pane of glass, with X-Line Limited and X-Pro trims featuring twin 12.3-inch displays. The materials used in the cabin were of higher quality, with faux open-pore wood grain and quality stitching on the optional leather-wrapped steering wheel and seats. The Sorento also offered a brown interior colour, adding character to the cabin. Overall, the 2024 Sorento felt solidly assembled and more upscale than some of its competitors.

The 2023 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the RDX came standard with all-wheel drive, known as "super-handling all-wheel drive" or "SH-AWD." The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, which was average for its class. The throttle response was immediate, and the turbo powertrain was more than adequate for most drivers. The engine and exhaust produced a pleasing deeper tone, and the transmission excelled at selecting the correct gear. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and abundant traction from the advanced AWD system. The adaptive dampers on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim provided a sporty yet comfortable ride.

The 2024 Kia Sorento retained most of its mechanical components, with the base engine being a 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, but its performance was underwhelming. The EX and higher models featured a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, mated to a dual-clutch eight-speed automatic. Turbocharged Sorentos had zero-to-100 times in the mid-seven-second range and offered lively performance with ample passing power. In Canada, all Sorentos came with all-wheel drive, with varying ground clearance depending on the trim. The Sorento handled confidently, with well-weighted steering and effective brakes. The X-Pro trim, with its all-terrain tires, provided a smoother ride and more grip on loose terrain, making it capable of light off-road duty. The Sorento's towing capacity varied by trim, with the X-Pro offering up to 2,040 kilograms.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered ample space in the front seats, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in the top trim. The cushioning was generous, ensuring comfort during long drives. Standard features included heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel with paddle shifters, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, and a panoramic moonroof. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults, though taller individuals might find headroom limited. The large panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's sense of space. The RDX provided up to 835 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded. The centre stack's gear selector buttons and drive mode dial took up space, but overall, the RDX offered adequate storage options.

The 2024 Kia Sorento's cabin was upscale and comfortable in the first two rows, though the third row remained tight. The Sorento offered advantages over smaller models with third-row seating, providing more room than some larger alternatives. The front seats had 1,052 millimetres of legroom, while the second row offered 1,060 mm. The third row had 752 mm of legroom, suitable for occasional use by children. The Sorento's new dash was ergonomic, with controls within easy reach and ample small-item storage. Cargo space varied depending on the configuration, with up to 2,139 litres available with all seats folded. The Sorento's power liftgate was standard on EX and higher models.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a touchpad infotainment controller, which was challenging to use, especially while driving. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen and was out of reach. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity improved the experience, allowing for easier operation. The infotainment system itself had 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.

The 2024 Kia Sorento adopted a single-pane, twin-screen setup for its gauge and infotainment displays. All models featured a 12.3-inch screen integrated into the dashboard, with higher trims offering a second 12.3-inch digital display. The new infotainment system, "Connected Car Navigation Cockpit" (CCnC), prioritized popular features and offered a user-friendly interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity were standard, and the system supported over-the-air updates. The Sorento included USB-C outlets in all three rows and an auxiliary jack. Higher trims featured a Bose 12-speaker surround sound system, and Digital Key 2.0 was available on X-Line Limited and X-Pro models.

The 2023 Acura RDX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and more. The Platinum Elite A-Spec package added a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The adaptive cruise control performed smoothly, while the lane-keep assist was better suited for straight highways.

The 2024 Kia Sorento offered an extensive suite of standard and optional safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward automatic emergency braking, lane-following assist, and more. Advanced options included navigation-based adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Sorento's adaptive cruise control systems learned from driver behaviour and maintained precise distances. The IIHS rated the Sorento "Good" in several tests, though its LATCH system received an "Acceptable" rating. The NHTSA had not yet evaluated the 2024 Sorento.