Are you looking for a compact luxury SUV? Although there are less available models than in the more affordable categories, there are still several models in this segment and it might be difficult to know which one is the best choice.

Desjardins Acura presents two of these models, in this comparison between the Lexus NX vs Acura RDX; see how the Acura SUV stands out and is a better option than its rival!

RDX vs NX: Price and Trims

The Acura RDX comes in two trims:

• A- Spec: MSRP $ 57,295
• Platinum Elite A-Spec: MSRP $ 62,695

You can shop for the all-new 2023 Acura RDX directly on our website or come and visit us in dealership in Montreal!

As for the Lexus NX, it comes in three trims, including a hybrid version:

• NX 250: $ 51,372
• NX 350 h: $ 53,372
• NX 350: $ 58,322

Although at first glance the NX seems more affordable, it is important to mention that several features are offered in optional packages, with prices that vary between $ 4,000 and close to $ 14,000.

Interior and Exterior Design

The 2023 Acura RDX boasts bold and dynamic lines that are sure to seduce you! This Acura SUV’s two trims come standard equipped with 20- inch alloy wheels, a round dual exhaust tip, heated power side mirrors with driver recognition, reverse tilt and LED flashers, along with stylised LED headlights and taillights, among other things.

Inside, the modern and streamlined interior is sure to seduce you with the levels of refinement and high-quality materials like the Ultrasuede and leather seats, along with metal sports pedals, among other things. 

When it comes to the Lexus NX, it also offers LED headlights and taillights, along with heated power side mirrors with integrated flashers (but without driver recognition); however, the 3 available trims only offer 18- inch wheels as standard offered equipment, the 20- inch wheels are reserved for the optional packages. Take note that the different packages can have a significant impact on your final bill.

Powertrains and Performance

Let’s dive deeper into this Lexus NX vs Acura RDX comparison, with what you’ll find under the hood.

The RDX is equipped with a 272 horsepower 2.0 L 4- cylinder turbo engine, coupled with a 10- speed automatic transmission, along with a SH-AWD system. This powertrain will provide you with a 1,500 pound (680 kg) towing capacity.

As for the Lexus NX, it offers 3 different powertrains, depending on selected trim:

• A 203 horsepower 2.5 L 4- cylinder
• A 275 horsepower 2.4 L 4- cylinder turbo
• A 4- cylinder hybrid system with 240 net horsepower

Despite offering less power than the RDX, the Lexus SUV offers a slightly higher towing capacity of 2,000 pounds (907 kg).

However, the Acura RDX compensates for this slight disadvantage in towing capacity with an amount of cargo space that is significantly more generous than its rival. In fact, it offers cargo space that varies between 835 and 881 liters behind last row of seats; once these are folded, the RDX will provide you with between 1,668 and 2,260 liters of cargo space.

As for the Lexus NX, cargo space is much less generous, and offers between 643 and 1,328 liters in total.

Amenities and Technologies

The amenities and technologies are abundant aboard these 2 SUVs; so which, between the Lexus NX vs Acura RDX has the advantage? Let’s take a closer look.

• A 12- or 16- way power driver’s seat (compared to 8- for the NX)
• Heated and ventilated front seats (heated on the NX, ventilated on some of the trims)
• Heated rear seats
• Climate control over 2- or 3- zones (2- zones for the NX)
• Peripheral vision system (RDX)
• A 10.2- inch screen (9.8 for the NX)
• Navigation system (RDX, NX)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (RDX, NX)
• A 4G LTE wireless access point (RDX)
• And so much more.

Lexus NX vs Acura RDX: Safety Features

• Front collision alert (RDX, NX)
• Braking with impact reduction (RDX, NX)
• Road sign recognition (RDX, NX)
• Pedestrian, cyclist and motorcycle detection (NX)
• Adaptive cruise control (RDX, NX)
• Blind spot surveillance (RDX, NX)
• Rain sensing wipers (RDX, NX)
• Front and rear parking sensors (RDX)
• And so much more, depending on selected options.

Would you like to find out more about our Lexus NX vs Acura RDX comparison? Come and visit us at Desjardins Acura, your dealership in Montreal!

Lexus NX vs Acura RDX: Specs