2020 Lexus NX vs. 2019 Acura RDX 
2020 Lexus NX vs. 2019 Acura RDX

There is plenty of competition in the crossover SUV market today. However, when you consider luxury crossover SUVs, there are far fewer options to consider. Take a look at the Lexus NX luxury crossover, and compare it to the Acura RDX, which is one of many crossovers trying to be like the Lexus NX. After comparing the vehicles, you'll understand why the Lexus NX is the superior choice.

Performance

 2020 Lexus RX Performance 

Image via Flickr by THE SMADE JOURNAL

Both vehicles offer turbo-charged engines in both front and all-wheel-drive formats. Lexus differentiates itself with the NX 300h hybrid system. The RDX does not come in a hybrid version. Here's a look at some of the significant performance features on both vehicles.

 Features     Lexus NX Acura RDX
 Front Wheel Drive Standard Standard
 All-Wheel Drive Available Available
 Hybrid Drive Available Not Available
 Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) Standard on F Sport Not Available
 MPG Rating Combined 28 MPG (31 MPG for the NX Hybrid) 28 MPG (No hybrid comparison)
 

The Lexus NX 300h uses an electric motor to deliver power to the rear wheels. This allows for much better economy than the RDX, which uses a complicated system that transfers engine power from the front axle to the rear.

The Lexus NX's turbo engine utilizes the superior twin-scroll technology, giving it the ability to seamlessly move between conventional and Atkinson cycles for better performance, increased efficiency, and enhanced responsiveness. The Acura RDX uses direct injection that doesn't adjust on demand.

Safety

The NX comes standard with Safety System+ 2.0, which is a suite of systems designed to reduce or eliminate accidents. The Acura RDX comes with AcuraWatch. The following are just a few examples of how the Lexus NX safety system is superior to the RDX.

  • Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
  • The Lexus NX pre-collision system includes an emergency braking function. The RDX does not.
  • The Lexus NX can detect pedestrians. The RDX does not.
  • All-speed dynamic cruise control
  • The Lexus NX functions at all speeds, even stop and go traffic. The RDX does not.
  • Road sign assist
  • The Lexus NX will detect and inform the driver of current road signs like Speed Limit, Merging Traffic, and more. The RDX does not have a Road Sign Assist system.

The Lexus NX safety suite includes features like bicycle detection, brake assist, and even low-light pedestrian detection. The RDX does not.

Comfort and Design

Brands like Lexus are synonymous with luxury. Premium leather seats and other soft touch appointments combine with real wood accents to immerse you in premium comfort and style. Things you will enjoy on the NX but will not find on the RDX include:

  • Kick motion activated rear door.
  • Leather trimmed shift knob.
  • Heated outside mirrors with automatic tilt-down in reverse.
  • Multiple seat memory system.
  • Power reclining and folding rear seats.

The list goes on and on. The features of the NX far outmatch those of the RDX, proving once more why the Lexus NX is the luxury crossover SUV of choice today. Test drive one and see for yourself.