2023 Acura RDX vs. 2023 BMW X3

When shopping around for SUVs, people want a ride that has the most of everything. More power, more features, the works. BMW may feel like the obvious choice for some, but Acura has a few tricks up its sleeve for the current model year. The Delray Acura team is here to show you the key differences between the new 2023 Acura RDX and the 2023 BMW X3 to help point you in the right direction. For the latest Acura vehicles near you, take a look at our new inventory online!

2023 Acura RDX vs 2023 BMW X3

Performance doesn't always come in the form of sedans. It's possible for an SUV to look and feel like a nitty-gritty sports car, and of course, Acura would be the one to prove that. Even if performance isn't your thing, the new RDX offers a bit of everything for everyone in its well-equipped cabin. For being a luxury brand, BMW shorted its new X3 in nearly every category.

Performance

Peeking under the hood of an Acura is always exciting and rewarding. The new 2023 RDX carries a 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine capable of 272 horsepower which is on par with many attainable sports cars currently on the market. It offers a 10-speed transmission, an electric steering system, and re-tuned iBooster brake assistance. For even greater handling, you can include the available Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (or SH-AWD, an Acura exclusive) and Adaptive Dampers for real-time automatic adjustments. With all of these enhancements, you'll forget you're even driving an SUV.

Shifting the spotlight over to BMW, the new X3 comes standard with a 2.0L engine at 248-HP. Other than being short on horsepower, the 8-speed transmission is also less impressive compared to the RDX, especially without the advanced nature of SH-AWD. The X3 does offer dynamic damper control, but the overall drive feel is disappointing next to Acura's contender.

Safety Features

AcuraWatch comes standard in every new Acura model, including the RDX. You'll have access to essentials like the Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Lane Keeping Assist, Pedestrian Detection, and Traffic Sign Recognition. But you're not only limited to those standard features. Available driver-assist technologies include the Blind Spot Information System, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, Surround-View Camera, and Low-Speed Braking Control. For an SUV displaying great performance, having the option to use all of these intuitive features is very reassuring.

The new X3 also comes standard with some safety features, although the list isn't as extensive. You'll have your basic automatic emergency braking system and warning alerts, and the most notable available feature is adaptive cruise control which is an option for many of today's vehicles.

Interior

An SUV disguised as a sports car, the new RDX promotes a fun and exciting interior with race-inspired elements all around. Going with the A-Spec trim will get you sports seats with Milano premium leather and contrast stitching and a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel. You have the ability to include real open-pore wood trim and Iconic Drive Ambient Cabin Lighting to set the mood while being surrounded by authentic materials. You can make every drive a party with the available ELS Studio 3D audio system that comes with 16 speakers, 4 of which are placed in the headliner for a more personal and dynamic experience.

Since BMW is often considered a luxury brand, it's surprising to find out that the X3 uses a plastic trim lined with a woodgrain design as a fake alternative to real wood as the RDX has. Even the leather options are technically faux leather compared to Acura's available full-grain Premium Milano leather option. While the X3 has a maximum of 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space, the RDX has a max of 79.8 cubic feet and when it comes to SUVs, storage is a great factor in terms of usefulness.

Bottom Line

The 2023 Acura RDX has already proven to be a better ride than the BMW X3 in many ways, but there's even more to consider. When you purchase the new RDX, Acura will offer you complimentary maintenance for 2 years or 24,000 miles. This includes routine services like oil changes, tire rotations, and multi-point inspections. After catching up on all of the details, we can easily recommend the RDX with confidence.

Take the 2023 Acura RDX for a Test Drive!

Want to take the new 2023 Acura RDX for a spin? Come visit the friendly and helpful staff at Delray Acura and we'll gladly show you around the lot. You can call us at (888) 221-4506 for more information on the RDX or take a peek at our new inventory right on our website!