2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2023 Acura RDX was noted for its sharp, angular style, which, while unique, did not make it stand out dramatically from its competitors. The front featured the signature Acura grille, which, after years of evolution, seemed to be showing its age. Flanked by sleek wraparound headlights, the deep creases in the bodywork and hood gave the RDX a sporty and aggressive look. The side was accentuated by a distinctive character line that suggested forward movement, even when parked. However, the rear of the RDX was more conventional, resembling many other small SUVs in its overall styling. Inside, the RDX took a different approach with a vertical dashboard layout, dominated by gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial, emphasizing Acura's focus on performance. The interior, while not as modern as some rivals, offered a familiar feel for those averse to the new glass cockpit trend.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic burly, body-on-frame look, with larger tires on the more capable models like the Rubicon X and Rubicon 392 trims. A redesigned grille, first seen on the 2023 20th Anniversary edition of the Wrangler Rubicon, was shorter and wider, allowing for more airflow into the engine bay. The antenna was integrated into the windshield to prevent snagging on bushes and branches during off-roading. The Wrangler offered a variety of roof options, including a traditional soft-top, a full hard top, and a power-retractable sunroof. The windshield could fold down, and the doors could be removed completely, offering a customizable open-air experience. The Wrangler's rugged design was complemented by new wheel designs and a focus on off-road capability.

The 2023 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and came standard with front-wheel drive, while Acura's "super-handling all-wheel drive" (SH-AWD) was available on all models and standard in the top trims. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, which was average for its class. The throttle response was immediate, and the turbo powertrain was more than adequate for most drivers. The engine and exhaust had a pleasing deeper tone, and the transmission excelled at selecting the correct gear. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and abundant traction from the advanced AWD system. It cornered with prowess, yet ride comfort remained uncompromised, making it an attractive option for many shoppers.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a variety of powertrains, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a 6.4-liter V8 engine with 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The Wrangler featured various transfer cases, each offering different levels of off-road capability. The 4xe PHEV Wrangler combined the 2.0-liter engine with two electric motors, offering 21 miles of all-electric range. The Wrangler's solid front and rear axles provided plenty of articulation for better traction in rough terrain. The 392 trim offered a thrilling driving experience, while the Willys trim provided capability without the full Rubicon price. The Wrangler's ride quality on pavement was bumpy due to the solid front axle, but sound deadening material improved cabin quietness. A WARN winch was available as an option on Rubicon models, enhancing off-road capability.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered ample space in the front seats for taller adults, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in top trims. The cushioning was generous, ensuring comfort during long drives. Heated and ventilated seats quickly adjusted to desired temperatures. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults, though six-footers might touch the headliner. The large panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's open and airy feel. Behind the rear seats, the RDX provided up to 31.1 cubic feet of cargo space, larger than its competition by a small margin. A deep bin under the cargo floor featured a center drain plug, useful for wet gear or as a tailgate cooler. Folding the rear seats expanded capacity to 79.8 cubic feet, with remote seatback levers for easy transformation. Front passengers had plenty of storage options, though the center stack's design took up unnecessary space.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler's big news was its upgraded towing capacity, now rated to tow 5,000 pounds for four-door Rubicon-trim models with specific configurations. Inside, heated seats and a heated steering wheel were available, but ventilated seats were not. Jeep added 12-way power adjustable front seats, which remained functional even when submerged. The 4xe model featured a 30-amp Power Box, running off the battery to power accessories like blenders or portable refrigerators. The Wrangler's interior was designed for rugged adventures, with options for customization and practicality.

The 2023 Acura RDX's infotainment system used a touchpad controller, which was challenging to use, 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 interface challenges, the system featured sharp graphics, quick responses, and logically arranged menus. The RDX came standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. Premium audio options included a 16-speaker ELS system with potent bass and clear high notes.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler featured a 12.3-inch center infotainment screen running Uconnect5, with optional navigation. The interface was cleaner and easier to use, with many USB ports and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's speed was notably improved, especially for Off-Road Pages, which provided data like transmission temperature and pitch and roll gauges. The Trails Offroad feature offered access to over 200 trails, with a subscription option for more. The Wrangler also included a wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and the ability to store user profiles.

The 2023 Acura RDX received five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side crash protection, and four stars for frontal and rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ with "good" scores across the board. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The Technology package added parking sensors, while the Advance package included a surround-view camera and head-up display. The adaptive cruise control was praised for smooth inputs, though lane-keep assist was better suited for straight highways.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler integrated first- and second-row side-curtain airbags. Forward collision warning was standard on all but the base model, with other advanced aids optional. The Wrangler had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS for 2024, but the 2023 model received four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection. The IIHS rated the four-door Wrangler "Good" in roof strength and head restraints but "Moderate" in frontal and side crashes. Ratings were expected to improve with the addition of side curtain airbags.