2021 Acura RDX VS. 2021 Infiniti QX50

The compact luxury SUV segment is full of interesting products. In fact, the battle is so close that when a model gets a little too old, it falls behind. Acura has one of the most relevant and attractive players in the category from many points of view, the 2021 Acura RDX SUV. Let's take a look at this vehicle to understand what it brings to the table. 

To do so, we're going to compare it to a direct competitor that underwent its renewal at the same time for the year 2019, the Infiniti QX50. 

But before going any further, don't forget that whenever you're looking for the best sublime 2021 Acura RDX price, you can make a confident choice at your Acura Laval dealer, near Terrebonne, Sainte-Thérèse, Boisbriand and just minutes from Montreal. You can also browse our large inventory of new Acura vehicles, such as our Acura TLX for sale or our certified pre-owned Acura vehicles. For the maintenance of your vehicle, trust in the professional team at Acura Laval Service.

Now, see how the RDX measures up to the QX50.

The Style

Acura's design department has taken its share of criticism in recent years. Rather than dismissing these out of hand, designers got to work redefining the brand's image. We started seeing encouraging signs about five years ago, but in 2019, when the RDX was renewed, we realized just how serious this was.

It's simple, the model's coat is spectacular, a success all around. At the front, the signature is strong and at the rear, it is highly stylized and immediately recognizable. Meanwhile, Acura has mastered the art of interior design; the quality inside is spot on and the visual presentation is as pretty as it is original. 

Infiniti did a good job with the QX50's styling, but they've been offering the same design philosophy for ages. Consequently, even though the model was new in 2018, it had a hard time getting noticed. The same goes for its cabin. The quality is there, but the approach remains very traditional. 

Motorization and Transmission

Each model offers a 2-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The thing is, the RDX's is slightly more powerful than the QX50's, which was heralded as the eighth wonder of the world when it hit the market. We're talking 272 horsepower versus 268. Torque is the same at 258 lb-ft. 

Granted, it's not a huge difference, but the experience behind the wheel is not the same, because Acura decided to go with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Traditional, that is. 

Infiniti opted for a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While this type of transmission has proven to improve fuel economy, the feeling under acceleration ruins everything. The mechanics make a disturbing whine and it's noisy on board. The RDX is the complete opposite, showing that it's possible to combine power and flexibility. And that's not to mention that a conventional automatic transmission makes better use of the power. 

And if you think about it, you don't buy a luxury SUV to make compromises, and you don't have to with an RDX.

On the Road

However, we won't bash on the QX50. This SUV offers a solid, reassuring and somewhat sporty ride. In many ways, it behaves like a car. But again, the behavior of the CVT spoils the experience. 

As for the 2021 RDX, it exhibits a frankly impressive aplomb. We feel more confident behind the wheel, as the chassis enables us to attack the road more effectively. The difference isn't huge, but once again, we have to give the RDX the edge. 

The other advantage is in terms of space. The 2021 Acura RDX is simply more spacious. This is especially noticeable in the rear seats, but also when it comes to cargo space. With the seats folded down, up to 2,260 litres is at your disposal. With the QX50, it's limited to 1,822 litres. 

In truth, it's the accumulation of small advantages offered by the RDX that makes it the best choice over the Infiniti QX50. Don't hesitate any longer to come and see us for a test drive.