2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the A-Spec Package, presented a sleek and sporty appearance without excessive embellishments. Its design changes were subtle, conveying a sense of sportiness without overpromising on performance. Unlike rugged off-road SUVs, the RDX maintained a refined look, focusing on daily driving and road trips. The A-Spec trim, priced at $44,100, added unique interior features like sport seats and red ambient lighting, enhancing its sporty vibe. However, the gauge cluster's red markings on a silver background were difficult to read.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid had a bold and distinctive design that required some getting used to. Its front end was aggressive, with a floating roof effect created by black windshield pillars. Despite its funky appearance, the Highlander’s design could become familiar over time. The model offered various trims, with the hybrid version starting at $38,410. The Limited trim, priced at $50,008, included features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen and electronic AWD. While the interior was upscale, some materials felt cheap, and the dashboard design could cause reflections.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered an optional SH-AWD system, enhancing handling by distributing power effectively. The RDX provided various driving modes, including Sport and Sport+, which adjusted powertrain and steering responses. Despite its sporty nature, the A-Spec lacked adaptive dampers, leading to some body motion on uneven roads. Overall, the RDX was fun to drive, with precise steering and strong brakes.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid switched from a V6 to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 243 horsepower. It achieved better fuel efficiency, rated at 36 mpg combined. The hybrid used an E-CVT and offered optional AWD. While more efficient, the Highlander Hybrid lacked excitement, with adequate power but a strained engine sound during acceleration. Its steering was lifeless, and the ride had unwanted body movement. However, it excelled in electric motor torque and quiet freeway cruising, though it wasn’t particularly enjoyable to drive.

The Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. Its front seats were comfortable, with 12-way power adjustment and heating/ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised due to a low cushion and excessive recline angle. Cargo space was practical, with 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a maximum of 58.9 cubic feet with seats folded. Additional storage compartments added convenience.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided roomy front accommodations with power-adjustable seats and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third row was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space was generous, with 16 cubic feet behind the third row and 84.3 cubic feet maximum. However, storage solutions were less practical, with a shallow tray and limited side storage.

The Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface, a touchpad-based system that mirrored the screen layout. While an improvement over similar systems, it required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker premium audio system, offering excellent sound quality. Acura provided smartphone integration and voice assistant technology, enhancing convenience.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with a comprehensive infotainment system, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen and JBL audio. It offered connectivity features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. However, the JBL sound system's performance varied. Additional features included Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror, improving communication and visibility.

The Acura RDX was equipped with AcuraWatch, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot monitoring 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-impact and rollover tests.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, adding intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring was available from the LE trim. The Highlander received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact ratings.