2023 Acura RDX vs. 2023 Infiniti QX50

Would you rather go with an SUV that has supreme performance and handling, or one that provides a fun and convenient cabin experience? That was a trick question because you can find sport utility vehicles that excel in both aspects. Acura and Infiniti have created prime examples of this, but which brand does it better? Today, the Delray Acura team is comparing the new 2023 Acura RDX and the 2023 Infiniti QX50.

2023 Acura RDX vs. 2023 Infiniti QX50

Acura has been knocking it out of the park with their latest lineup of vehicles that have been receiving well-earned attention throughout the car industry with the new RDX being one of their prized contenders. Can the new QX50 stand up to the RDX's reputation? We're here to help you find out.

Performance

As to be expected with Acura's knack for performance, the 2023 RDX comes with a 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine capable of 272 horsepower supported by a 10-speed automatic transmission. This alone is a feat worth celebrating, but Acura gives you the choice of enhancing your ride even further with available features that are too good to pass up. Super Handling All-Wheel Drive is a popular feature that Acura fans absolutely love. The feel of the improved drive quality is unique to Acura and no other brand can quite match it. Available Adaptive Dampers bring you more smoothness on the road, and the variety of drive modes offered in the Integrated Dynamics System is incredibly useful and the difference is definitely noticeable. The RDX's dual-pinion, variable-ratio electric power steering gives you supreme control while the iBooster braking system allows you to stop on a dime with more confidence.

With Acura's track record of offering the best performance on the market, it comes as no surprise that the Infiniti QX50 isn't able to match the level of care and detail. The 2.0L engine caps out at 268 horsepower, and the only notable driving enhancement feature is the available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. However, many drivers would much rather prefer the more intuitive feel of Acura's patented Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, otherwise known as SH-AWD.

Safety Features

You can count on Acura to supply you with all of the safety essentials with the inclusion of their AcuraWatch collection of safety features that have earned it awards from all over. Each feature has been carefully selected to proactively keep you out of harm's way with the Collision Mitigation Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist System being only a few examples. But aside from the standard basics, you can also include available driver-assist technologies that give you a clearer view of your surroundings such as a 360 Surround-View Camera, Blind Spot Information System, and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor. You'll no longer have to guess if there's anything in the way or hop out of your car to see if the coast is clear.

The QX50 comes with ProPILOT Assist which is a worthy challenger against AcuraWatch as it contains a decent variety of essential safety features. There are also available features you can include to watch your blind spot and give you a 360 view of your surroundings. So, in this category, both sides are pretty equal. But you won't be saying the same when you compare the interior features.

Interior

Acura has really been leaning into the racer aesthetic with all its vehicles lately which has resulted in very bold and exciting interior atmospheres. Some aspects of the new RDX have been inspired by previous performance icons, such as the Ultrasuede-trimmed interior elements that have been carried over from the NSX supercar. You can sit back in luxury surrounded by authentic materials such as open-pore wood and Milano leather. Iconic Drive Ambient Cabin Lighting is there to set the mood paired with a compelling ELS Studio 3D audio system with 16 speakers, 4 of which are located in the headliner for intuitive sound quality. The impressive and crystal-clear 10.2 center display can be easily accessed with a True Touchpad Interface that's much more comfortable to use. And lastly, you have a maximum cargo volume of 79.8 cubic feet.

On its own, the QX50 has an adequate interior that can be quickly undermined next to the RDX. The main highlight is the new gray interior which isn't much to write home about. The available Bose audio system also has 16 speakers, but the placement isn't as dynamic. The ambient lighting feature is pretty basic and there's only a max of 64.4 cubic feet of cargo space. One unique aspect is the decision to separate the center display into two screens (one 8-inch and one 7-inch), but this can actually be a distraction while on the road since there are more components that require your attention. Many drivers would much rather have a single screen with universal access.

Bottom Line

Acura is a tough competitor to beat, and they haven't lost yet! Anyone will be able to tell you that the new RDX has much more to offer than the QX50 and you'll have much more fun during every drive in both performance and cabin experience.

Take the 2023 Acura RDX for a Test Drive!

Eager to see what the 2023 Acura RDX is all about? Swing by Delray Acura anytime to see for yourself! Call (888) 221-4506 for more information.