Lexus RX Hybrid vs Acura ADX

The 2025 Acura ADX presented a striking design that set it apart from its platform-mate, the Honda HR-V. Its styling was distinctly Acura, featuring a large pentagonal grille with diamond-patterned mesh that complemented its compact proportions. Standard LED lighting, including headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights, added to its modern appeal. The A-Spec models further enhanced the look with LED fog lights and Berlina Black or Shark Grey 19-inch wheels. The interior of the ADX was equally impressive, with a premium feel that included red leatherette accents in the A-Spec trim, creating a cohesive and upscale atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid aimed for high style with its RX 500h F Sport Performance model, though some found its design overly flamboyant. The front end featured a large trapezoidal grille flanked by slim headlights, creating a bold and somewhat controversial look. The profile was stylish, with flat wheel flares and a character line that suggested motion. Inside, the RX 500h offered a choice of Dark Graphite or Rioja Red leather, with sporty elements like a perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel and aluminum pedals. The interior was comfortable, with soft-touch materials and digital screens enhancing the driving experience.

The 2025 Acura ADX was equipped with a 1.5-litre VTEC turbo four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) in Canada, it offered adequate power for its size. While not the most powerful in its class, it provided sufficient performance for everyday tasks and even some spirited driving on twisty roads. The ADX featured multiple drive modes, including Sport, Normal, Comfort, and Snow, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. The Platinum Elite A-Spec trim added an Individual mode for further customization.

The 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid, specifically the RX 500h, delivered 366 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque through a combination of a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and a hybrid system. This setup included two electric motors, with the front motor positioned between the engine and the six-speed automatic transmission, and the rear motor integrated into an eAxle for AWD. The RX 500h offered a seamless transition between electric and gas propulsion, with a 0-96 km/h time of 5.9 seconds. It featured adaptive dampers, rear-axle steering, and a firmer suspension, providing a balance between performance and comfort.

The 2025 Acura ADX boasted a premium interior with leatherette seating surfaces and microsuede accents in higher trims. The heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel and power-adjustable front seats added to the comfort. The ADX offered generous headroom and legroom, with measurements of 979 mm for headroom and 1,065 mm for front legroom. Rear seat legroom was also impressive at 958 mm. Cargo space was ample, with 690 litres behind the rear seats and 1,560 litres with them folded down. Standard features included a power tailgate, dual-zone climate control, and rear-seat vents.

The 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable interior with eight-way power-adjustable sport seats, standard heating and cooling, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seats offered good legroom, though accommodating three adults could be tight. Cargo space was practical, with 838 litres available with the second row up and 1,308 litres with them folded down. The RX 500h's interior was designed for comfort, with a panoramic sunroof and supportive seating for long journeys.

The 2025 Acura ADX featured a nine-inch centre infotainment screen and a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster. Standard technology included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wi-fi hotspot, and a wireless phone charging pad. The A-Spec models added rear USB-C ports, while the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim offered Alexa Built-In, Google Built-In, HD Radio, and a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with a unique "beosonic" app for sound customization.

The 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen, along with a standard head-up display. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and featured Lexus Intelligent Assist for voice commands. The touchscreen was responsive and driver-oriented, though the touch-sensitive steering wheel pads were less intuitive. A three-year Drive Connect subscription provided real-time traffic information and Google points of interest.

The 2025 Acura ADX included the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, with adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot information, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist as standard. The surround-view camera system was optional on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, Acura aimed for top ratings similar to the HR-V's success.

The 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and more. Additional options included automatic parking and a surround-view camera system. The RX received a five-star rating from the NHTSA but scored "Poor" in the updated moderate front overlap test by the IIHS, preventing it from earning a Top Safety Pick award.