Acura RDX vs. Lexus RX

I just helped my inlaws buy a Brand new 2008 Acura RDX. I bought a Brand new Lexus RX in 2006 (The RX has not changed since).

The Acura RDX claims to be a replacement for the Lexus RX, and visually I would say that is true, but here are some differences.

THE LOOK: The Acura has a sportier look from the front, while the Lexus has a more elegant look. The back of the RDX is very well done, not too sporty but not too bland like the RX. Otherwise, parked side by side, they look almost the same.

INSIDE: Here is where your extra $8K comes into play. Though the Acura has a ton of electronics, the fit and finish does not compare to the quility and luxury of Lexus. Even when you open the back back door of the Acura, it feels light weight and cheap compared to the Lexus. Also the legroom in the back row is noticable smaller. with that said, the Acura does a great visual job with the interior, trading luxury and technology for sportines and Technology. Acura has a beautiful multi color display and Lexus has a bright solid white display. The only competition to this Lexus intrior is the 2008 ACURA MDX, which is breath taking.

The RIDE: Some of that $8K also goes into the quality of the ride in Lexus' favor. The Lexus feels heavy and sure footed while the Acura is light and nimble. The interior noise is noticeably louder compared to the Lexus, where I had to pull over and check to see if the trunk door was opened. With that said, it's not that bad compared to a regular car, but compared to a Lexus, there is a difference in road noise. Both have advanced all wheel drive so driving in the snow and rain is a breeze.

The ENGINE:
The Acura only comes with a 4 cylinder Turbo, the Lexus with a V6. The Acura engine noise is noticably lounder than the Lexus, both are strong. You may already notice that Acura has not spend as much on noice dampening for the RDX.

FAMILY FRIENDLY: I don't recomend either car if you have more than one child. They both have small back rows with the Lexus slightly bigger, the trunk space is also real small in both cars. I would really suggest you get a 6 cylinder GMC ACADIA (Saturn Outlook), (if you have 2 or more kids) which has 3 rows of spacious seating and costs abut 31k starting. (I bought the 7 passenger version, look for my review via my profile.)

THE PRICE: Here is where Acura shines. For about $37K you can get a fully loaded RDX. For the same Lexus RX you have to pony up about $45k!

Ok so here is the way I see it................

If you are younger and single this is a great car... your friends will be impressed and it really is a great value. If you are older and you are looking for a second or third car, and have some money to burn. GET THE LEXUS. In the end the true value lies in the quility, comfort, saftey, and the weight or the car. I can't tell you how many little things that Lexus does better for the money. Like the better quility leather, you can feel the difference; The Xenon headlights that move when you turn; The materials used on the dash and doors just feel fuller; even the rear center console is impressive.

In the end, the 2008 Acura RDX, is not a LEXUS RX replacement. Respectfully, it is a cheaper imitation of the ground breaking luxury Lexus RX. Acura did a great job, but in the end if you want Lexus type quailty in an ACURA, I would consider looking at the Acura MDX