2024 Acura RDX Vs. 2024 Audi Q5 – Which One Should You Choose?

The competition between the 2024 Acura RDX vs. 2024 Audi Q5 emerges as the battle of strong contenders for buyers seeking a blend of refinement, capability, and sophistication. Both offer a compelling driving experience, upscale interiors, and a generous helping of technology features. Picking the perfect choice comes down to understanding your specific needs and preferences.

Performance Powerhouse: Acura RDX

The 2024 Acura RDX boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine churning out 272 horsepower and 298 lb-ft of torque. This energetic powertrain translates to a spirited driving experience, accentuated by a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission. Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive System (SH-AWD) further elevates handling dynamics by precisely distributing torque to the wheels, ensuring optimal control during enthusiastic driving or adverse weather conditions.

The 2024 Audi Q5 offers a wider range of powertrain options. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, providing a capable and comfortable ride. Stepping up to the 45 TFSI trim bumps output to 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. While the Q5 offers a broader powertrain selection, the base engine falls short of the RDX in terms of raw power.

Interior Comfort and Design: A Tale of Two Personalities

Both the Acura RDX and Audi Q5 showcase well-crafted interiors with high-quality materials and comfortable seating. The RDX features a driver-oriented cockpit designed with a focus on ergonomics and functionality. The infotainment system integrates seamlessly into the dashboard, and physical buttons and knobs for climate control ensure ease of use while on the road.

The Audi Q5 takes a more design-centric approach to its interior. The cabin features a sleek, modern dashboard with a focus on aesthetics. The infotainment system utilizes a rotary dial and button control system, which can require some familiarization compared to a touchscreen setup. The Q5 offers an optional virtual cockpit display that replaces traditional analog gauges with a customizable digital display.

Technology and Safety Features: A Matchup of Advanced Systems

The Acura RDX and Audi Q5 come equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and infotainment technologies. The Acura RDX features their AcuraLink infotainment system with a standard 10.2-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium sound system. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

The Audi Q5 offers their MMI infotainment system, which utilizes a rotary dial, buttons, and voice commands for control. The system includes standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of connected services. The Audi Q5 comes equipped with their Audi Avast driver-assistance system, featuring similar functionalities as the AcuraWatch system.

Cargo Space and Practicality: Acura Takes the Lead

The Acura vehicle boasts a significant advantage in terms of cargo space. With the rear seats folded down, the RDX offers a maximum of 79.8 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Audi Q5 offers only 54.7 cubic feet. This makes the RDX a more practical choice for hauling luggage, gear, or bulky items.

Fuel Efficiency: A Balancing Act

The 2024 Acura RDX with front-wheel drive achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. All-wheel-drive models see a slight decrease to 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The Audi Q5 with the base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The Audi Q5 offers a plug-in hybrid variant that delivers impressive fuel economy figures of 54 mpg combined on electric and gas power.

The 2024 Acura RDX and Audi Q5 are both excellent choices in the compact luxury SUV segment. The RDX stands out for its energetic performance, superior cargo space, and a more user-friendly infotainment system.

The best choice depends on your priorities. If you prioritize a powerful and practical SUV with a focus on value, the Acura RDX might be the better fit.