2023 Acura RDX vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Acura RDX was noted for its sharp, angular style, which, while unique, did not make it stand out significantly from its competitors. The front featured 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 look. The side profile was marked by a distinctive character line that suggested forward movement, even when stationary. However, the rear design was more conventional, resembling many other small SUVs.

Inside, the RDX took a different approach from the horizontal dashboard trend, opting for a vertical layout. 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, with a digital centre display flanked by analog gauges. While the interior wasn't as modern as some rivals, it offered a familiar feel for those averse to new glass cockpits, though it might disappoint those seeking the latest design trends.

The 2024 Lexus GX, in contrast, embraced a geometric styling overhaul, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of its predecessor. The spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the GX a more aggressive look, while the flat hood featured humps above the front wheels for better off-road positional awareness. The side profile was minimalistic, with a low window beltline for enhanced visibility. The GX was offered in a single trim with five packages, each catering to different needs, from luxury to off-roading.

Inside, the GX blended luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a large 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road features. The interior was less luxurious than some competitors but was designed for durability and long-term use. The GX's off-road capabilities were highlighted by features like the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, which improved wheel articulation and stability. Despite its off-road prowess, the GX maintained a composed on-road behaviour, surprising given its size and capabilities.

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, it 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, offering a sporty yet comfortable ride. The handling was confident, with well-managed body roll and excellent traction from the advanced AWD system. The adaptive dampers on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim further enhanced its sporty cornering abilities without compromising ride comfort.

The 2024 Lexus GX, meanwhile, transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The torque was available low in the rev range, aiding off-road performance. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It used a 10-speed automatic transmission with full-time four-wheel drive and a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and advanced suspension technology, enhancing off-road capabilities. The GX's on-road performance was surprisingly composed, with effective brakes and minimal body roll.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered ample space in the front seats, with additional power adjustments in the top trim. The seats were comfortable for long drives, and standard features included heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic moonroof. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. Cargo space was generous, with 835 litres behind the rear seats and 1,668 litres with the seats folded. The interior provided various storage options, though the centre stack design could have been more space-efficient.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. The first and second rows offered comfortable space for six-foot-tall adults, with 1,047 mm of legroom in the front and 933 mm in the second row. The third row, available in certain packages, was tight and best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded, and a total of 2,178 litres. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 1,291 litres of total cargo capacity.

The 2023 Acura RDX's infotainment system used a touchpad controller, which was challenging to use, 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, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio premium audio system.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Drive Connect subscription service offered an intelligent voice assistant, though it required a paid subscription in Canada. Remote Connect provided remote locking, unlocking, and vehicle diagnostics with a three-year trial. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with higher packages offering a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. While the Lexus Interface was user-friendly, subscription costs for certain features could add up over time.

The 2023 Acura RDX received top safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It came with standard advanced safety features, including 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 Lexus GX saw significant improvements in safety, with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 standard across all models. It included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. While not yet crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, the new GX's modern architecture and advanced safety features inspired confidence in its safety offerings.