2023 BMW X7 vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a significant mid-cycle makeover, drawing inspiration from the redesigned BMW 7 Series sedan. The most noticeable change was the repositioning of LED accent lights to where the headlights used to be, with the actual headlights now tucked underneath. This bold design choice, along with the oversized kidney grille, sparked mixed reactions. While some appreciated the daring aesthetics, others found it lacking in grace and cohesiveness. The interior saw a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, alongside a more elemental dashboard design. The quality of materials remained high, with supple leather and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute, though glossy wood and carbon fiber trims were advised against due to glare issues. Overall, the interior revisions lent a modern and elegant appearance to the X7.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura RDX maintained its sharp, angular style, though its signature grille seemed to be showing its age. The sporty and aggressive front was complemented by sleek wraparound headlights and deep bodywork creases. The side featured a distinctive character line, while the rear remained conventional. Inside, the RDX opted for a vertical dashboard layout, with a center stack of controls flowing into the console. The cockpit emphasized performance with gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. While not as modern as some rivals, the RDX's interior offered a familiar feel, appealing to those averse to the latest glass cockpit designs. The cabin's sporting intent was accentuated by white-faced gauges with red flourishes, though it might not satisfy those seeking cutting-edge design.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered two engine options, starting with the base xDrive40i model featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This setup delivered 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, marking an increase from the previous year. BMW claimed a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds for this all-wheel-drive powertrain. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, also with a 48-volt hybrid system, producing 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with potent acceleration from the V8 and adequate performance from the six-cylinder. The ride was slightly firmer compared to other luxury SUVs, but it maintained a good balance of performance and comfort.

The 2023 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive, with Acura's "super-handling all-wheel drive" (SH-AWD) available. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, offering immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine sound. The transmission efficiently selected gears, and the brake pedal provided reassuring firmness. The RDX's handling was confident, with well-managed body roll and ample traction from the advanced AWD system. It offered a sporty driving experience without compromising ride comfort, smoothing over road imperfections with ease.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in providing ample space, particularly in the second row, which comfortably accommodated taller passengers. The large sunroof and windows enhanced the airy feel. Accessing the third row required some patience due to the power-operated middle row, but it offered a decent opening once moved. The third row could seat average-sized adults, though thigh support was limited. Cargo space behind the third row was 12.8 cubic feet, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats folded. The split tailgate and suspension-lowering feature facilitated loading bulky items. Front-seat passengers enjoyed adequate storage options, including a large covered bin with a wireless charging pad.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided generous front-seat space, with additional power adjustments in top trims. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The cabin felt open and airy, thanks to the large panoramic sunroof. Cargo space behind the rear seats was 31.1 cubic feet, slightly larger than competitors, with a deep bin under the cargo floor for wet gear. Folding the rear seats expanded capacity to 79.8 cubic feet, with remote seatback levers for easy transformation. Front passengers had ample storage options, though the center stack's design took up unnecessary space.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, which, despite its intuitive layout, had drawbacks. Many physical buttons were replaced by touchscreen controls, complicating basic functions like seat adjustments and adaptive cruise control settings. Voice commands offered a workaround, but they interrupted audio playback. While the system excelled in navigation and texting, more physical buttons and intuitive menus were desired.

The 2023 Acura RDX used a touchpad infotainment controller, which, though better than Lexus' version, was still challenging to use. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen, making operation difficult while driving. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto improved the experience, allowing for easier navigation. Despite the system's sharp graphics and quick responses, it remained one of the least user-friendly interfaces. The RDX came with a Wi-Fi hotspot, remote monitoring, and premium audio options, with the top trim featuring a 16-speaker ELS system.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, but it boasted a comprehensive list of safety features. Standard equipment included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive headlights, and parking sensors. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a highway driving assist feature. These systems performed reliably, with no false alarms or unpredictable responses.

The 2023 Acura RDX received high safety ratings, with NHTSA awarding it five stars for overall and side crash protection, and four stars for frontal and rollover protection. IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+ with "good" scores across the board. 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 system. The adaptive cruise control was praised for its smooth operation, though the lane-keep assist was better suited for straight highways.