2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the A-Spec Package, presented a sporty yet understated appearance. Its design avoided excessive blacked-out trim or aggressive performance cues, maintaining a balance that suggested sportiness without overpromising on performance. The RDX was not designed for off-roading, evident in its lack of rugged features like oversized skid plates or fender flares, focusing instead on daily driving and road trips.

Inside, the A-Spec Package enhanced the RDX with sporty elements such as front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting. The interior materials and design choices contributed to a sporty feel, though the gauge cluster's red markings on a brushed silver background were difficult to read. Despite these minor drawbacks, the RDX's cabin was far from typical for a compact crossover SUV.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX models, featured a sharp, streamlined design that was both familiar and distinct. Despite its aggressive F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid's underpinnings were based on the older Toyota RAV4 platform, making it feel somewhat dated compared to its sibling. The F Sport Black Line edition added unique elements like a larger mesh grille and dark-finish wheels, with the Grecian Water blue paint providing a striking contrast.

Inside, the NX Hybrid's design, once radical, had become familiar due to its longevity. The F Sport package added features like aluminum pedals and NuLuxe upholstery, but the interior materials felt more mainstream than luxury. The dashboard's analog clock was a nice touch, but overall, the material quality didn't match the luxury brand's expectations.

The 2021 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and offered an optional SH-AWD system, enhancing handling by distributing power effectively to the rear wheels. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to select from various driving modes, adjusting powertrain and steering responses.

The RDX A-Spec rode on exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels with performance all-season tires, contributing to its engaging driving experience. However, the lack of adaptive dampers in the A-Spec led to some body motion on uneven roads. Despite this, the RDX was praised for its predictable handling, precise steering, and effective brakes, making it a rewarding drive.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid's acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds, and the transition between electric and gasoline power was not always smooth.

The F Sport package included a sport-tuned suspension, improving handling without sacrificing ride comfort. However, the steering felt numb, and the NX Hybrid didn't match the tightness of newer models based on the TNGA platform. Drive modes like Eco and Sport offered minimal impact on performance, with Eco mode further reducing acceleration.

The Acura RDX offered impressive passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV. Its front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 12-way power adjustment and heating/ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low cushion and excessive recline angle, leading to a less supportive seating position.

Cargo space was practical, with 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with them folded. The RDX also featured useful storage compartments, though the official cargo volume figures were somewhat conservative compared to competitors.

The Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with rear legroom being the worst in its class. Despite this, the front seats were comfortable, offering 10-way power adjustment and optional heating/ventilation. The sloping roofline and thick pillars affected rear visibility, though large mirrors helped mitigate this.

Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. The NX Hybrid's cargo capacity was less than its gasoline counterpart, but features like a power-folding second row and power liftgate added convenience.

The Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touchpad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While it mirrored the screen layout, it required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX included physical controls for climate and audio, smartphone integration, and a 16-speaker premium audio system, providing a rich sound experience.

The Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a touchpad interface that was difficult to use while driving. Despite analog controls for climate and audio, the system felt outdated, with text-heavy menus and basic graphics. The base audio system was underwhelming, making the optional Mark Levinson system a worthwhile upgrade.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with AcuraWatch, offering features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. However, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert required an upgrade. The RDX earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars in frontal and rollover tests.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid also received a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, with features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, but a 360-degree camera system was absent.