2023 Honda CR-V vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2023 Honda CR-V presented a more refined and slightly aggressive appearance with its blunt nose, elongated hood, and extended wheelbase. This sixth-generation model adopted a cleaner design compared to its predecessor, though it lacked the distinctive personality of the fifth-gen CR-V. The conservative styling was expected to age gracefully. Both the CR-V EX and EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass, giving them a uniform exterior look. Inside, the EX-L offered leather-wrapped seats and a steering wheel, enhancing the interior's quality and simplicity. The dashboard, inspired by the latest Civic, incorporated metal mesh trim and a digital instrumentation display. The EX-L trim also boasted a larger touchscreen infotainment system and additional features like a power-adjustable front passenger seat and parking sensors.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura RDX stood out with its sharp, angular style, though it remained conventional enough to blend in with other small SUVs. The signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights, gave the front a sporty and aggressive look. The side featured a distinctive character line, suggesting forward movement, while the rear maintained a more conventional design. Inside, the RDX opted for a vertical dashboard layout, with a center stack of controls flowing into the center console. The cockpit emphasized 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 and analog gauges. The RDX's cabin, while updated with newer tech features, retained an older design aesthetic.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. This engine, carried over from the previous generation, was paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that powered either the front or all four wheels. While the CVT was known for its droning noise during hard acceleration, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, offering a refined driving experience. The suspension, steering, and brakes were finely tuned, providing a smooth ride over various terrains. The CR-V achieved an impressive fuel economy, averaging 29.1 mpg in combined driving.

The 2023 Acura RDX, on the other hand, featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the RDX offered a responsive throttle and a pleasing engine sound. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, providing adequate power for most drivers. The handling was confident, with well-managed body roll and a comfortable ride. The advanced AWD system, known as "super-handling all-wheel drive," provided excellent traction, making the RDX sporty yet comfortable. The brake pedal offered reassuring firmness, contributing to smooth stops.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was touted as the roomiest model yet, though the driver's seat felt relatively low, giving it a car-like feel. The second row offered more space, resembling a midsize model with ample legroom and thigh support. The cargo area provided 39.3 cubic feet of space, expandable to 76.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Storage options were plentiful, though most were lined with hard plastic, potentially causing noise.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered generous front seat space with additional power adjustments in top trims. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, with ample legroom and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the cabin's openness. The cargo area provided 31.1 cubic feet of space, expandable to 79.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The RDX featured a deep bin under the cargo floor with a center drain plug, useful for wet gear. Storage options were adequate, though the center stack's design took up unnecessary space.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the EX trim, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX-L trim added a 9-inch touchscreen display, wireless connectivity, and an upgraded sound system. While the technology was improved, it didn't surpass competitors, and some features were only available in the top hybrid model.

The 2023 Acura RDX used a touchpad infotainment controller, which was challenging to use, especially while driving. The system improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing for easier operation. Despite the interface issues, the infotainment system offered sharp graphics and quick responses. The RDX came standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring, with options for premium audio in higher trims.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured the Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. New features included a seatbelt reminder, driver monitoring, and traffic sign recognition. While the safety tech met current standards, there was room for improvement, particularly with lane-centering assist. The CR-V was built to Honda's latest safety standards, though crash test ratings were pending.

The 2023 Acura RDX received top safety ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The safety systems performed well, with smooth adaptive cruise control and effective collision warnings.