2023 toyota highlander vs. acura rdx: a battle of premium suvs – discover the winner
What To Know
- The Highlander exudes a rugged and utilitarian charm, with a bold front grille, prominent wheel arches, and a spacious cabin.
- In contrast, the RDX embraces a more sleek and aerodynamic design, featuring a sharp-edged grille, sculpted body lines, and a sporty rear diffuser.
- The RDX, on the other hand, offers a more refined cabin, sharper handling, and a higher level of standard technology.
The Toyota Highlander and Acura RDX stand as two of the most formidable contenders in the midsize SUV segment. Both offer a compelling blend of space, performance, and features, making them popular choices among families and adventure seekers alike. This comprehensive comparison aims to delve into the intricacies of each vehicle, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and overall value proposition to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The Toyota Highlander and Acura RDX present distinct aesthetic identities. The Highlander exudes a rugged and utilitarian charm, with a bold front grille, prominent wheel arches, and a spacious cabin. In contrast, the RDX embraces a more sleek and aerodynamic design, featuring a sharp-edged grille, sculpted body lines, and a sporty rear diffuser. Both vehicles offer a range of exterior color options and trim levels to suit diverse preferences.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, the Highlander boasts a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The front seats provide ample support and adjustability, while the second row offers generous legroom and headroom. The third row, accessible via a convenient power-folding mechanism, provides additional seating capacity for up to eight passengers. The RDX, while slightly smaller in overall dimensions, impresses with its premium materials and refined ambiance. The front seats are exceptionally comfortable and feature heated and ventilated options. The second row is equally spacious, but the sloping roofline may compromise headroom for taller occupants.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Highlander offers two engine options: a 295-horsepower V6 and a 243-horsepower hybrid system. The V6 delivers robust acceleration and power, while the hybrid provides impressive fuel economy and eco-friendly performance. The RDX, on the other hand, is powered by a turbocharged 272-horsepower four-cylinder engine that offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. Both vehicles come standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an optional upgrade.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many SUV buyers. The Highlander’s hybrid system shines in this regard, achieving an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined. The V6-powered Highlander returns an estimated 22 mpg combined. The RDX, with its turbocharged engine, achieves an estimated 24 mpg combined. While not as efficient as the Highlander’s hybrid, the RDX still offers respectable fuel economy for its performance capabilities.
Technology and Safety Features
Both the Highlander and RDX come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced technology and safety features. The Highlander features Toyota’s Entune infotainment system, which includes a touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration. It also offers a range of driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The RDX counters with Acura’s True Touchpad Interface, which is known for its intuitive operation. It also boasts a host of safety technologies, such as the AcuraWatch suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and collision mitigation braking.
Price and Value Proposition
The Toyota Highlander starts at an MSRP of $34,810 for the base L trim. The Acura RDX, on the other hand, has a slightly higher starting MSRP of $38,000 for the base model. As you move up the trim levels, the price difference widens, with the top-of-the-line Highlander Platinum costing around $49,000 compared to the RDX A-Spec’s $48,600 price tag. Ultimately, the value proposition of each vehicle depends on your individual priorities and budget.
Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Choice
The Toyota Highlander and Acura RDX are both exceptional midsize SUVs that offer a compelling blend of space, performance, and features. The Highlander excels in terms of fuel efficiency, interior space, and overall value. The RDX, on the other hand, offers a more refined cabin, sharper handling, and a higher level of standard technology. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability, the Highlander is an excellent choice. If you value performance, luxury, and advanced technology, the RDX may be a better fit.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers more overall interior space, particularly in the third row.
Q: Is the Acura RDX more fuel-efficient than the Toyota Highlander?
A: No, the Toyota Highlander‘s hybrid system provides superior fuel economy compared to the RDX’s turbocharged engine.
Q: Which vehicle comes with more advanced safety features?
A: Both the Toyota Highlander and Acura RDX offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, with the AcuraWatch system in the RDX being particularly notable.
Q: Is the Toyota Highlander more affordable than the Acura RDX?
A: Yes, the Toyota Highlander has a lower starting MSRP than the Acura RDX.
Q: Which vehicle has a better infotainment system?
A: The Acura RDX‘s True Touchpad Interface is generally considered to be more intuitive and user-friendly than the Toyota Highlander’s Entune system.