2023 Acura RDX vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

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 the latest glass cockpit designs.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, which had aged well and remained modern and appealing. The U.S. version of the new Suna trim featured exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts. Mazda improved fuel economy for the base engine, eliminated a machined-finish 19-inch wheel design, and added wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trims.

The CX-5 lineup included versions with a base engine and 2.5 Turbo models, with the Turbo offering 256 hp on premium gas. The CX-5's interior was upgraded over the years, resulting in an upscale crossover SUV at a mainstream price. The Suna trim, similar to the Canadian version, came with the Turbo engine as standard, offering a premium feel inside and out.

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, all-wheel drive (AWD) was standard, 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 turbo powertrain provided immediate throttle response, and the engine had a pleasing deeper tone. The transmission was adept at selecting the correct gear, and the brake pedal offered reassuring firmness. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and abundant traction from the advanced AWD system. Adaptive dampers on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim enhanced cornering prowess without compromising ride comfort.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo, when filled with premium gas, delivered 256 hp at 5,000 rpm and 320 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm. On regular gas, it offered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft, with torque arriving 500 rpm sooner. The powertrain was more rewarding with a slower, steadier acceleration, allowing revs to build before utilizing the torque. The CX-5's fuel economy was unimpressive, with a combined rating of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, observed at 10.3 L/100 km during evaluation. The base engine offered better fuel efficiency. The CX-5 felt tall and narrow from the driver's seat, with excellent outward visibility. Mazda re-tuned the suspension for a smoother ride, stiffened the frame for responsive handling, and made AWD standard. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering while minimizing body motions. It offered a quiet highway ride, lively handling in the city, and stability on twisty roads. The CX-5 could tow up to 900 kilograms (2,000 pounds).

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 generous cushioning ensured 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 panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's open feel. The RDX provided up to 835 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded. A deep bin under the cargo floor featured a centre drain plug for wet gear. Front passengers had various storage options, though the centre stack's design took up unnecessary space.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The redesigned seats were comfortable and supportive, with six-way power adjustment for the driver and manual height adjustment for passengers. Leather was standard on all trims except the base GS and GX, with premium Nappa leather on the Signature trim. Heated rear seats and ventilated front seats were available on the GT grade. The CX-5 was among the smaller models in its segment regarding interior room but remained comfortable for four adults. The rear seat offered good support and a proper sitting position, with rear air conditioning vents and a centre armrest with cupholders and a storage tray. The cabin's design and quality elevated the CX-5 above most mass-market rivals. The CX-5 provided 871 litres of cargo space behind the back seat, expandable to 1,680 litres with the rear seat folded.

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 and was out of reach. The experience improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing for easier operation. Despite the system's sharp graphics and quick responses, it remained one of the least user-friendly interfaces. Standard features included Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. A 16-speaker ELS Studio premium audio system was standard in Canada.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 avoided touchscreens, favouring traditional switchgear for various controls. However, Mazda offered a setting for touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while driving, with wireless connectivity available in several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons on the centre console. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting, a find my car feature, and automatic 911 dialing. Several CX-5 versions featured a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, standard in the Suna trim, enhancing the SUV's premium interior.

The 2023 Acura RDX received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, rain-sensing wipers, and front and rear parking sensors. The Platinum Elite A-Spec package added a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The adaptive cruise control was praised for its smooth operation, though the lane-keep assist was better suited for straight highways.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, a driver monitoring system, surround-view camera, front and rear parking sensors, and automatic reverse braking. The standard ADAS performed well, with non-intrusive lane departure and lane-keeping systems. The CX-5 had previously earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.