What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll pit the Honda CR-V against the Acura RDX in a head-to-head comparison, examining their key features, performance, and overall value to determine which one emerges as the ultimate compact SUV champion.
- With its smaller engine and CVT, the CR-V achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive (FWD).
- The Acura RDX, with its more powerful engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with FWD.
When it comes to compact SUVs, two models that consistently top the charts are the Honda CR-V and the Acura RDX. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance, making them popular choices among families and adventure enthusiasts alike. But how do these two SUVs compare against each other? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll pit the Honda CR-V against the Acura RDX in a head-to-head comparison, examining their key features, performance, and overall value to determine which one emerges as the ultimate compact SUV champion.
Performance and Powertrain: A Tale of Two Engines
Under the hood, the Honda CR-V and the Acura RDX offer distinct powertrain options. The CR-V comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient power delivery.
On the other hand, the Acura RDX boasts a more potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that offers quick and responsive shifts. While both SUVs offer all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option, the RDX’s more powerful engine and advanced transmission give it an edge in terms of acceleration and overall performance.
Design and Styling: A Matter of Personal Preference
When it comes to design, the Honda CR-V and the Acura RDX present two different aesthetics. The CR-V exudes a rugged and utilitarian look, with a boxy silhouette and prominent fenders. Its exterior features sharp lines and angles, giving it a sporty and aggressive stance.
In contrast, the Acura RDX showcases a more refined and sophisticated design. Its sleek lines and curves create a dynamic and elegant profile. The RDX’s exterior is adorned with intricate details, such as the signature Diamond Pentagon grille and Jewel Eye LED headlights, which give it a distinctive and upscale appearance.
Ultimately, the choice between the CR-V’s ruggedness and the RDX’s sophistication is a matter of personal preference.
Interior and Comfort: A Balancing Act of Space and Luxury
Inside, the Honda CR-V and the Acura RDX offer spacious and well-appointed cabins. Both SUVs provide ample headroom and legroom for passengers in both rows, ensuring a comfortable ride for all. The CR-V’s interior is characterized by its practicality and versatility, with a focus on maximizing cargo space and functionality. It features a large touchscreen display, intuitive controls, and a variety of storage compartments.
The Acura RDX, on the other hand, takes interior luxury to a higher level. Its cabin is adorned with premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and ambient lighting. The RDX offers a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and advanced connectivity features, creating a more refined and upscale driving experience.
Safety Features: A Commitment to Passenger Protection
Both the Honda CR-V and the Acura RDX come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to ensure the well-being of their occupants. Standard safety features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control. Additionally, both SUVs offer advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.
The Acura RDX, however, goes a step further with its AcuraWatch suite of safety technologies. This system includes features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system, providing drivers with enhanced awareness and peace of mind on the road.
Fuel Efficiency: A Battle of MPGs
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V holds a slight advantage over the Acura RDX. With its smaller engine and CVT, the CR-V achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive (FWD). Adding AWD slightly reduces fuel economy to 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
The Acura RDX, with its more powerful engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with FWD. Opting for AWD lowers those figures to 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Price and Value: Striking a Balance between Affordability and Luxury
The Honda CR-V and the Acura RDX occupy different price ranges, reflecting their respective features and capabilities. The CR-V starts at a more affordable $27,045 for the LX trim, while the RDX has a higher starting price of $40,300 for the base trim.
As you move up the trim levels, the price gap widens, with the top-of-the-line CR-V Touring model coming in at $37,045 and the fully loaded RDX A-Spec Advance Package reaching $55,600. Ultimately, the choice between these two SUVs depends on your budget and the level of luxury and performance you seek.
Wrap-Up: A Choice between Practicality and Premium Performance
In the battle between the Honda CR-V and the Acura RDX, there is no clear-cut winner. Both SUVs offer compelling attributes that appeal to different buyers. The CR-V stands out with its affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for families and those seeking a versatile everyday vehicle.
On the other hand, the Acura RDX delivers a more luxurious and performance-oriented experience, with a more powerful engine, a refined interior, and advanced safety features. It caters to buyers who prioritize style, sophistication, and a thrilling driving experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Honda CR-V and the Acura RDX boils down to your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability and practicality or crave a more luxurious and exhilarating driving experience, both SUVs offer exceptional value in their respective segments.
Answers to Your Questions
1. Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Honda CR-V or Acura RDX?
Answer: The Honda CR-V has better fuel economy than the Acura RDX, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway compared to the RDX’s 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
2. Does the Acura RDX have more cargo space than the Honda CR-V?
Answer: No, the Honda CR-V offers more cargo space than the Acura RDX. The CR-V has 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, while the RDX has 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
3. Which SUV has a more powerful engine, the Honda CR-V or Acura RDX?
Answer: The Acura RDX has a more powerful engine than the Honda CR-V. The RDX’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, while the CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generates 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.