2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2023 Acura RDX presented a sharp, angular style that was unique yet conventional enough to blend in with its class. Its front featured the signature Acura grille, which, despite its sporty and aggressive look with sleek wraparound headlights and deep creases, seemed to be showing its age. The side profile was marked by a distinctive character line that suggested forward movement, while the rear styling was more conventional, resembling many other small SUVs. Inside, the RDX opted for a vertical cockpit layout, with a center stack of controls flowing into the center console, emphasizing performance with gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. The interior, though not as modern as some rivals, offered a familiar feel with a digital center display flanked by analog gauges, appealing to those averse to the latest glass cockpit designs.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90, on the other hand, elevated Mazda's design and material quality to near-luxury levels, surpassing traditional Japanese competitors. Its exterior took cues from smaller Mazda models and expanded them into an imposing SUV with a big grille, wide-set front end, and large wheels, all accentuated by tasteful chrome trim. Inside, the CX-90's top trims boasted interiors that could rival luxury brands, featuring brown suede upholstery, wood inlays, and matte black plastic bits. The CX-90 offered 11 different trim levels across three powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid and a high-performance Turbo S model. The interior design was stylish and comfortable, with a range of seating configurations and a focus on quality materials, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a luxurious yet practical SUV.

The 2023 Acura RDX was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it came standard with front-wheel drive, while Acura's "super-handling all-wheel drive" (SH-AWD) was available on all models and standard on top trims. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, offering a sporty driving experience with immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine sound. The transmission was adept at selecting the right gear, and the brake pedal provided a firm, reassuring feel. The RDX's handling was confident, with well-managed body roll and a comfortable ride, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balance of performance and comfort.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid and a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The Turbo S model, in particular, impressed with its 3.3-liter I6 engine producing 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. All CX-90 models featured standard all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CX-90 offered three driving modes: Normal, Sport, and Off-Road, with noticeable differences in behavior between Normal and Sport modes. The PHEV model combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 17.8-kWh battery and a 68-kW electric motor, delivering 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both models excelled in handling, with the CX-90's larger platform and advanced suspension providing agility and composure through corners, reminiscent of Mazda's reputation for building outstanding driver's cars.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample space for front-seat passengers, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in top trims. The seats were generously cushioned, offering comfort for long drives, and the heated and ventilated seats quickly adjusted temperatures. Rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The RDX offered 31.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 79.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The interior featured various storage options, including a covered center console bin, a bin under the armrest, and a large tray with a wireless charging pad, though the center stack's design could have been more space-efficient.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered a range of seating configurations, with lower trims seating eight passengers and mid-level trims featuring captain's chairs. The Turbo S model had a two-seat third-row configuration, providing slightly more cargo space. Total cargo capacity reached 75.2 cubic feet in models with the two-seater third row, with 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row and 40.1 cubic feet behind the second. The CX-90's interior was thoughtfully designed, with ample storage options, comfortable seats, and a panoramic sunroof. While it fell short of some competitors in cargo capacity, the CX-90's quality materials and clever storage solutions made it a comfortable and practical choice.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a touchpad infotainment controller, which, while better than previous attempts by other brands, still posed challenges. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen, requiring precise touchpad movements that were difficult while driving. The system improved with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for easier navigation. The RDX came standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app, with options for premium audio, including a 16-speaker ELS system in top trims.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 focused on reducing distractions with its Mazda Connect infotainment system, using a rotary control knob and hard buttons instead of a touchscreen. While the intention was to enhance safety, the system's quirks could be distracting. However, the CX-90 offered personalization software with facial recognition for automatic adjustments, and standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with touchscreen controls for these systems. The CX-90's technology aimed to balance safety with convenience, though some users might prefer the familiarity of traditional touchscreens.

The 2023 Acura RDX received high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side crash protection and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, 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 RDX's safety systems performed well, with smooth adaptive cruise control and effective collision warnings.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came standard with i-Activsense, Mazda's suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The top-spec Turbo S Premium Plus model featured cruising and traffic support, blending lane-centering with adaptive cruise control. While the CX-90 had not yet been crash-tested, its predecessor, the CX-9, received high safety ratings, suggesting the CX-90 would perform well in safety evaluations.