2022 Acura RDX vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2022 Acura RDX underwent subtle styling changes inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. These updates included modifications to the grille surround and front and rear bumper styling, along with new wheel designs and paint colors. The limited-production RDX PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior, named after the Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio. The RDX lineup offered various trims, including the base model, Technology, A-Spec, Advance, and A-Spec Advance, with starting prices ranging from $42,300 to $53,300, excluding destination charges. The A-Spec Advance package, with its high-quality interior materials and quieter cabin, aimed to justify its price tag, although some design elements like the vertical air inlets were less favored.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately appearance at over 16 feet long. Standard 19-inch wheels were upgraded to 22-inch alloys in the Prestige trim. The rear echoed the quad-lamp design with four-part taillamps above dual exhausts. The matte Brunswick Green paint added elegance, complemented by a luxurious interior featuring quilted leather seats, metal, and matte wood trim. The center console housed three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel stood out. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, was a minor annoyance in an otherwise spacious and luxurious cabin.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. This engine provided an enjoyable driving experience, though fuel economy fell short of the EPA rating, averaging 20.6 mpg. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard, and the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system was available, enhancing cornering capabilities. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered distinct driving modes, and the adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness. Despite its dynamic attributes, the RDX didn't qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered all-wheel drive with a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The larger engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth power delivery, though the GV80 wasn't particularly quick, taking around five and a half seconds to reach sixty. While not as agile as some competitors, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, with its electronically controlled suspension and active noise cancellation ensuring a smooth and quiet ride.

The 2022 Acura RDX, a compact SUV, offered ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. While the front seats were comfortable and supportive, the rear seats lacked comfort, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor. The RDX provided 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with luxury features. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated front and rear seats available. The Ergo Motion driver's seat offered fatigue-reducing features, and Nappa leather seats added to the opulence. While a third row was optional, it offered limited legroom. The GV80 boasted a tri-zone climate control system, a 21-speaker stereo, and a panoramic glass roof. Cargo space was generous, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded. Towing capacity reached 6,000 pounds with trailer brakes.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, pairing a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. While the system offered a direct one-to-one relationship between touchpad and screen, it was considered unnecessarily complicated compared to traditional touchscreens. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Three premium sound systems were available, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system offering 16 speakers in higher trims.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, the dial offered a "clicky" feel and handwriting detection. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were present, though not wireless. The GV80 featured remote smart parking assist, allowing the car to maneuver in and out of tight spaces without the driver inside. Wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet ensured devices stayed charged.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, aiming to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder system and enhancements to the AcuraWatch suite, such as pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. A standout feature was the blind-spot video feed displayed in the digital gauge cluster. Highway Drive Assist provided hands-on/eyes-up driving aid on approved highways. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Good rating for crashworthiness from the IIHS, though headlights and the LATCH system received Acceptable ratings.