Are you planning on purchasing a new or used car and are you considering the RDX vs CRV? Well, if that is the case, then you are at the right place because there will be a lot to cover on this topic where we are going to learn everything when it comes to these two models.
Doing the proper research before you decide to spend a ton of money on a new or a used car should be one of your top priorities. On the market right now there are dozens of car brands and also hundreds of models to choose from and when it comes to buying, you need to make the right decision in order not to be sorry down the line because of a poor choice you made.
So, knowing the specs and common problems should be on top of your list. This is why we are going to help you out. It is good since you narrowed your choice down to only these two brands. So, it would be easier for us to really help you out and deliver all the details that you need.
First, we are going to learn more about Acura vs Honda and why these two brands deserve your attention. Then, we are going to cover the specs of the latest model of the CR-V, as well as the RDX. We will cover all the interesting numbers and features that will make your decision a lot easier. Then we will give you our verdict on what should be your pick. So, you don’t want to miss that!
Acura VS Honda (And RDX VS CRV)
Now let’s cover something first when it comes to Acura vs Honda. This will be really useful for the people who consider the RDX vs CRV. Why so? Well, because Acura and Honda are really connected with each other and knowing how and why these two brands share a lot is really important to make the right decision.
As we all know, Honda is a big player in the US market since the 70s. They created a ton of legendary models that basically changed the US automotive industry. And this brand is highly regarded for the quality products that it delivers.
Even nowadays after 50 years, they still manage to deliver excellent vehicles on the table. And honestly, if you once buy a Honda, you are a Honda guy for life. But let’s say that you want something different but still a Honda under the hood.
Well, if you want something different. You have the Acura brand. Acura is Honda’s luxury division. They produce vehicles that are more upscale for the wealthier buyers. As well as for the ones to drive something really different and unique.
Acura is also present on the market since 1986 and during its long presence, it released a lot of legendary products like the Integra and Acura NSX.
What is worth noting is that even though Acura is the luxury division of Honda, they still have high-performance models to offer on the market. What is really unfortunate is that the RDX does not have a high-performance Type S version offered. But since you are considering between RDX vs CRV, you are probably considering getting a more upscale vehicle than the CR-V.
Why These Two Brands (RDX VS CRV) Deserve Your Attention?
Now let’s discuss another topic before we compare RDX vs CRV and that is the topic of why these two brands deserve your attention. What makes Acura and Honda so special that you really need to consider them for your future daily driver?
Well, the first reason is quality. Both of these car brands are Japanese and Japanese carmakers have a high reputation for their quality. They have great attention to detail that some of the American car brands are lacking.
In these cars, you will never face issues like rattling plastics inside. Especially if we are talking about newer models. Also, the engineering of the engines is also better and they get a much better fuel economy.
And on top of that is the affordability. Japanese cars are really affordable and also cheap to maintain in the long run. There are rarely expensive repairs that have to be done to these cars unless it’s some factory defect. Which can happen in any car.
And last is the relation of the dealership with the customers. Japanese carmakers are highly regarded when it comes to this aspect for having a good relationship with their customers. So, getting a Honda or an Acura is really a no-brainer decision. But what about the RDX vs CRV? More on that, we are going to cover in the following chapters.
RDX VS CRV
Now let’s discuss the RDX vs CRV. As you probably know, both of these vehicles are compact crossover SUVs and both compete in the same market.
But what is worth noting is that the RDX targets the more upscale customers, while the CR-V is more for the regular Joe. Not that the CR-V is no good. Both of these vehicles have advantages and disadvantages.
And in the following chapters, we are going to cover all of them. First, we will focus on the specs of the CR-V, then we will focus more on the RDX, both 2022 models. And finally, we will make our pick when it comes to RDX vs CRV. So, if you want to learn more, follow along.
Honda CR-V Specs
Now let’s first cover the CR-V before we compare the RDX vs CRV. As we mentioned previously, the CR-V is a small compact crossover SUV. And a highly popular one. This model is basically the best seller in this segment in the US.
We will focus on the specs for the 2022 model year of the CR-V. What is worth noting is that this is the last model year for the fifth generation of the CR-V that was first released in 2016. And from 2023, this generation will be replaced with the new sixth generation.
This fifth generation is based on the same platform as the tenth generation of the Honda Civic. So, a lot of the components are shared between these two vehicles. The US models are assembled in the Ohio and Indiana Honda factories. But what about the RDX vs CRV? More on that we will cover in a bit.
Dimensions And Honda CRV Size
When it comes to the dimensions of this model, we can say that it is particularly small compared to other SUVs. It has a wheelbase of 104.7 inches and an overall length of 182 inches. It is 73 inches wide and 65.5 inches tall.
The CR-V has a curb weight of 3,307lbs for the FWD version and 3,419lbs for the AWD version. The AWD is considerably heavier because it implements more parts. But what about RDX vs CRV? More on that in a moment.
Honda CRV Cargo Space (And RDX VS CRV)
Now let’s discuss more about the Honda CRV trunk space. How much space does this model offer? Is it practical? Let’s find out.
The cargo space for this model is rather good. With the rear seats folded down, it has 775.8 cubic ft of cargo space. With the seats up, you only have 39.2 cubic ft. This is also a good number considering that this is only a compact SUV.
Honda CRV Trim Levels
What is worth noting when it comes to the CR-V is that this model has a few trim levels to choose from.
The most basic trim level that you probably don’t want is the LX. Then there is the EX and EX-L. The L version is the more luxurious version of the EX. So, if you want to get an EX. It is better to go after the L version.
There are also other trim levels such as the Special Edition and also the Touring which is top of the line and most expensive model. I would recommend the Touring if you want the best for yourself. But what about RDX vs CRV? More on that we will cover in a bit.
Engines & Transmissions (And RDX VS CRV)
Now let’s cover another topic and that is the engines and transmissions used for the CR-V. Sadly, though, for the 2022 model year, there is only one engine and transmission available. But we can say that they are pretty much bulletproof.
The engine is the same 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 engine that is producing about 190hp and 179lb-ft of torque. Which is plenty for a model of this size.
In terms of transmissions, there is only one. And that is the single-speed CVT automatic transmission that drives really well if you are asking me. Also, there are no problems reported on it. But what about the RDX vs CRV? More on that after we clear the rest of the specs.
Honda CRV MPG
The MPG on the CRV is excellent. Considering that this is an SUV, we can say that this model produces really good numbers even without hybrid technology.
The 1.5L is a really good engine. It gets 27 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. And in this category, there are only a few of these vehicles that can deliver something close to this.
Honda CRV Safety
The safety of this model is also really good. The 2017 model was crash tested by the NHTSA and got an almost perfect score on almost all the tests. It only got 4 stars on the rollover test. And considering that most cars have problems with this test, we can say that it is not a deal breaker.
Honda CRV Common Problems
When it comes to common problems, we can say that the CR-V doesn’t have many issues. The most notable problems are issues with the infotainment system which can glitch out from time to time.
Also, cars till 2018 had an issue with oil dilution on the 1.5L turbo engine. This was the case in cold environments when the gasoline creeps down into the cylinders and ruins the oil. But after 2018 these problems were sorted out. So, there are no major problems with the 2022 model year of the CR-V. But what about the RDX vs CRV? More on that we are going to cover in a bit.
Honda CRV Best Year
But what about the best year of the CR-V? Which year is the best when it comes to this model? Well, in 2022, we can say that this is pretty much a bulletproof model.
The most problematic years of this generation are 2016, 2017, and 2018. Anything after 2018 is an excellent investment. Just make sure that you get a well-equipped model with good options and also low miles.
Also, since it is the last year of production, you can also get a really great deal on a tremendously good model and be safe from any problems in the years to come. But what about the RDX vs CRV? More about that, we are going to cover it in a bit.
Acura RDX Specs
We have covered the specs of the CR-V. Now let’s discuss more about the RDX before we compare the RDX vs CRV. So, what is the RDX?
Well, the RDX is also a compact crossover SUV. It is basically on the same platform as the CR-V. But even though they share a lot. They are not the same car after all.
The RDX is a different kind of beast that features very much improved looks and also incorporates a ton of commodities like more powerful engines and transmissions, beautiful leather interiors (with some help by learning how to clean leather car seats), and a lot more. This model is also assembled at the Ohio plant as the standard CR-V.
Another thing worth mentioning is that this RDX was introduced in 2018 for the 2019 model year. So, we can say that it is a bit fresher than the CR-V model which we reviewed.
Dimensions And Acura RDX Size
Now before we discuss more about the RDX vs CRV, let’s take a look at the specs of the RDX. More precisely, the dimensions. The dimensions are almost the same for both models.
The RDX has a wheelbase of 108.3 inches, with an overall length of 186 inches. It has a width of 74.8 inches and a height of 65.7 inches.
But what is worth noting is that this model is a lot heavier than the CR-V. It has 3,829lbs and 4,068lbs. And that is a lot. Almost 500lbs difference.
Acura RDX Cargo Space (And RDX VS CRV)
Since it is the same size, the Acura RDX trunk space is pretty much the same as the standard CR-V.
The RDX gets 79.8 cubic ft when the rear seats are folded down. While with the rear seats up it only gets about 32 cubic ft. So, if you consider getting a car for practicality, they both are actually the same in this aspect. But what about the RDX vs CRV? More on that in a bit.
Acura RDX Trim Levels
We have covered the practicality. Now let’s talk about luxury. More precisely about the trim levels that are available on this model.
When it comes to the RDX, you get the standard version of this model as a basis. This is the FWD model. Then as you move up on the ladder, you can choose from the Technology Package and the Advance Package.
If you want to get something really sporty you can opt for the A-Spec of both the Technology Package and the Advanced Package.
Then there is the PMC Edition. This is the top-of-the-line most sporty model of the RDX that you can afford at the moment. And also, the most expensive one. Costing $55,000.
Engines & Transmissions (And RDX VS CRV)
In terms of engines, this model is equipped with a 2.0L inline-4 engine that is turbocharged. This engine produces a lot of power. 272Hp and 280lb-ft of torque to be more precise.
This powerful engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers extremely smooth shifts. But what about RDX vs CRV? More in a moment.
Acura RDX MPG
When it comes to the MPG, we can say that it is really bad in comparison to the CR-V. This model is thirstier. It only gets 21 mpg in the city, 23 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined.
Acura RDX Safety
When it comes to safety. This model performed really well on the IIHS tests. Achieving “good” scores on most of their tests. And considering that these two models are built on the same platform, there shouldn’t be much difference when safety is concerned.
RDX Common Problems
The biggest problem for this model is with the 2019 models. The car often would lose power and go into limp mode (forcing you to learn how to bypass limp mode). This issue was connected with the intercooler of the engine and required replacement because of moisture inside the intercooler. So, if you have this issue, you know that it is the intercooler that is causing it. But what about RDX vs CRV? More on that we will cover in a bit.
Acura RDX Best Year
When it comes to the Acura RDX’s best year, I would say to avoid 2019 and get a 2020 or 2021 model. These model years hopefully do not have the intercooler issue.
Except for that, this model is pretty much bulletproof if you are asking me. So, getting one is a no-brainer decision compared to the luxury and other features that it offers. But what about the RDX vs CRV? More on that we will discuss next.
RDX VS CRV
And now, let’s discuss the RDX vs CRV. Which one of these two models should be your choice? Well, this really depends on the budget, as well as your needs.
For example, if we consider the practicality aspect, you get pretty much the same car. The storage space is almost the same and you will feel no difference between the two in this aspect.
On the other hand, if you want something more powerful that is quicker off the line, then the RDX is a good option. This car has a 2.0L turbocharged engine with a ton more horsepower than the CR-V. Plus, it has a 10-speed automatic compared to the single-speed CVT on the CR-V.
The power difference is immense and frankly, there is no comparison. If you want something quick, go for the RDX.
And the last subject that we would want to compare is luxury. In the RDX, you will feel like you belong in a proper luxury vehicle. There are a ton more options and overall the looks are much better on the RDX. So, if you really want something more upscale, the RDX is the better choice between the two.
We can say that in our comparison of the RDX vs CRV, the RDX is the clear winner. And if you can afford it, you should definitely buy it.
Acura RDX vs. Honda CR-V: Price, Fuel Economy, and Interior Comparison
- The 2023 Honda CR-V is a popular compact SUV that comes with a broad range of features in an affordable package.
- The Honda CR-V’s base trim, the front-wheel drive (FWD) LX, starts at $28,045 and offers basic infotainment and creature comforts.
- The Acura RDX offers a premium market position, and its entry-level trim retails for $41,795.
- The CR-V Special Edition adds dual-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and heated seats at $29,245.
- The Honda CR-V Touring is the most expensive trim at $37,845 but includes leather seats, a moonroof, LED exterior lighting, navigation, and standard all-wheel drive (AWD).
- A hybrid, AWD version of the CR-V is also available, and it starts at $33,255.
- The Honda CR-V’s gas-only models feature a turbocharged, 1.5L four-cylinder engine that generates 190 hp and 179 lb.-ft. of torque and delivers a fuel economy of 28 mpg in city driving and 34 mpg on the highway for FWD models.
- The Acura RDX features a 2.0L, turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 272 hp, and delivers an EPA estimate of 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for FWD models and 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for AWD A-Spec models.
- The Honda CR-V has a spacious interior, with a storage area expanding to 76 cu.-ft. with the rear seat folded flat.
- The Acura RDX interior storage tops out at 59 cu.-ft. in total, with 30 cu.-ft. available behind the rear row.
Conclusion To RDX VS CRV
In this article, we have covered quite a bit when it comes to the RDX vs CRV. First, we learned more about Honda and Acura and learned why these two car brands are a really good option for your future vehicle.
Then, we covered the specs of both the RDX and CR-V. We learned the numbers, trims, and also practicality. Finally, we gave our verdict when it comes to the RDX vs CRV.
F.A.Qs To RDX VS CRV
Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
Is Acura Made By Honda
Yes, Acura is made by Honda. Acura is a sub-brand of Honda. This brand is designed for both people who want luxury and also people who want sportiness.
Are Acura And Honda The Same
Yes, they are actually the same company. But Acura is more luxury and performance-oriented than Honda. Also, they don’t share the same dealerships. If you want an Acura, you have to find an Acura dealership.
What Is A CRV
The CR-V is a model that is produced by Honda. This model is a compact crossover SUV. In fact, the CR-V is one of the best-selling models in this class of cars. The sixth generation of the CR-V is debuting in 2022 for the 2023 model year.
What Does RDX Stand For Acura
Many people are guessing, but the reality is that the RDX doesn’t stand for anything. It’s just the model of the car. That’s all we need to know until Acura tells us what the RDX means.
Where Is Honda CRV Built
The CR-V is built in three factories in the US. Two plants in Ohio and one plant in Indiana. Honda also has one factory in Canada as well. The US models are not imports. They are all produced domestically.
Is Acura RDX A Reliable Car
Overall, this model is really reliable. Especially the latest generation of the RDX. There are no major issues. Except for the limp mode problem on the newest model. This was reportedly caused by a bad intercooler on the 2019 model. Also, small infotainment bugs are present as well on the 2019 models.
