2023 Acura RDX A-Spec // Is This a Good Buy Over Lexus or Mercedes??

[@mustafahusseinmakarov]

Everybody complaining about not having a touch screen, bro SUVs have large body and the position of the infotainment system need you to stretch or bend to reach, trackpad is way much better and classy, a lot of German cars use trackpad but you never complain about it.. actually this is one of the features stands out for me to buy this car.

[@robertknight9506]

The most complimented car I’ve ever owned and I’m a Porsche guy. It’s not in the same category as a Porsche handling wise but the ladies do love it. Red seems to be the magic color.

[@adamjones6371]

I have a 22 RDX ASPEC Advance and I’d put it ahead of any German SUV in the class and WAY ahead of the Lexus. I’m a diehard Acura fan

[@Bigwaves954]

I just bought an 2016 good mileage and something about their suvs you feel like your getting a steal from the drive feel to the audio and everything in between bought this as future chess piece for a 2023 mdx in the next two years

[@ctgaming168]

Can you give me a reason why that is better than a Lexus?

[@ctgaming168]

​@@gt-c- The car in the review doesn't even look or feel like a luxury car brand. It doesn't seem to hold a candle to Lexus in terms of luxury and reliability.

[@Blackandwhitecat-u9v]

@@ctgaming168 😂

[@pethcir]

@@ctgaming168 Everybody is going to defend their purchase, at the end of the day Acura and Lexus are at the same price point, target the same demographic, and are both known to be reliable and long lasting investments (Honda & Toyota). I think both current gens are doing something really special and you should be proud if you own either of them.

[@clark1425]

Thanks for including the measurements of both the backseat leg room as well as the cargo area. It's much more useful to see actual measurements rather than spec sheet figures

[@Theonestrongbusleader]

If I want a Acura?? This is the one I buying.

[@josephpayton2055]

The RDX is nice and had aged pretty gracefully. There are some areas thats due for some improvements but not a deal breaker. I like the sport look of it and a standard pano sunroof is very nice. Im glad that they have this on both the MDX and RDX. Its gives a more premium feel even on the base trims.

[@nikilandjackaroochannel4572]

I agree. It's a great car in general

[@curiously1510]

Mostly agree but the infotainment interface and center stack layout has been dismal from day one.

[@nikilandjackaroochannel4572]

I own a 2017 RDX. It's still a phenomenal car, but this one is so nice, I might have to trade in. I love the new video style and arrangments. Keep up the awesome work. You guys are my favorite car reviewers.

[@CarConfections]

Thanks so much!

[@jmm1817]

I have the 18 the V6 or so much better than those turbo 4 cylinders.

[@nikilandjackaroochannel4572]

@@jmm1817 Yes mine is a V6 too. The V6 RDX from that generation are powerful

[@jmm1817]

@Nikil and Jackaroo Channel exactly I tested that turbo 4 and didn't like it at all, so I purposely got an 18 instead of a 20 when shopping. The only thing I miss is there's no Android play.

[@nikilandjackaroochannel4572]

@@jmm1817 Agreed. It would be nice considering the navigation system is a little slow in the 17 and 18.

[@KM-lz2ch]

Test drove an RDX A-Spec blacked out model (with some Snoop on the stereo to test sound)! Really gorgeous! But wasn't ready to pull the trigger and wanted to check out ALL my options. IMO the RDX looks best in the darker colors sans chrome, with blacked out windows. I like that Acura is keeping the knobs and buttons and not going full touchscreen for everything. I personally like that the infotainment system has a controller vs touch screen. The cargo area actually has a second area of storage under the mat beyond what you showed. The stitching on the doors, dash and seats adds a touch of class to it's sporty appearance. Sound reading comes in under Stelvio and Q5. Impressive! Also like that Acura doesn't have a disclaimer that 'some features may not be available due to shortages' (such as Audi, Cadillac, etc.). I've narrowed it down to the RDX A-Spec Advance OR Q5 Prestige 45TFSI. Watched your Q5 review and you seemed to like it. Two very different models. The RDX is so sporty while the Q5 is rather conservative (interiors). At this point, I may as well wait to see what 2024 brings! Thank you for another very helpful review!

[@Chiroman527]

KM, I'm kinda in your Camp. I have a 22 MDX Advance, and despite what these guys say about the TouchPad, even after 19 months, I still don't like it. Teh one saving grace is the HUD with steering wheel controls that eases the Pain. I test drove the 2021 RDX at the time, but I went with the MDX (I loved the redesign) even with the TTIP. The one thing I should mention is that the wireless charging Pad is erratic AND when you do connect Android Auto (the same with Car Play) the Track Pad is AWFUL. Slow an acts like a slow acting Mouse unlike the track speed you get with non AA use. And the center console USB port only functions to play Flashdrives when you connect to AA or Carplay (or maybe vice versa). I tur;lu love the way the MDX drives & Handles, However, the MPGs are not close to what is advertised. My test drive of the RDX did show it was great handling SUV, Plenty of Pep, and pretty comfortable. The MDX is more comfortable. For the Life of Me, I could not understand how Acura did OT include a Power Steering wheel adjustment feature - it's Manual.

[@KM-lz2ch]

@@Chiroman527 Wellllllll...I've had a TOTAL change of heart. I'm thinking either GV70 or new RDX. 😁 I just can't get past the busy center console.😕

[@Counter-Intuitive]

Just fyi, you're gonna be paying a pretty penny for Q5 maintenance and they don't hold their value as well as Acura

[@shaunmiller3342]

I love, love, love the RDX. I want this or the MDX next after I get tired of my TLX

[@thomasfraser9072]

No complaints so far. My 2023 RDX Advanced is driving me well. Will let you know if it drives me crazy in the future. Cheers

[@GTroyalty100]

Lol 😆

[@AndroidKhan]

How’s everything with it

[@thomasfraser9072]

@@AndroidKhan great but learned I can only do brushless car washes. Otherwise love the car

[@curiously1510]

Loving the updates to your production values, especially the information graphics and seeing you both in the same frames.

[@CarConfections]

Great to hear! Much appreciated feedback from a long-time subscriber!

[@geocape7060]

I have a 2021 tech RDX and love it. I recently rented a Mercedes GLC while on vacation to see how it drove and although it was a nice car it wasn't any better than my Acura except it was a bit quieter.

[@derrickdavis7917]

GLC's are lower tier though... should have rented a GLS! That's where the real luxury starts.

[@jeremysantaana859]

Very nice SUV 😍🔥

[@InvictusRed1911]

Mpg is painful, i need to keep it capped at 65mph on the highway to see 28mpg. With 93 Octane. 87 octane takes off 2-3 mpg. But in its class.. specs on Luxury AWD CUV/SUVs I could find: 2022 RDX - 3777 lbs - 2.0 T - 272 HP/280 lb-ft @ 1600 RPM - 22cty / 28hwy /24cmb MPG 2022 Lincoln Corsair - 3843 lbs - 2.0T - 250HP/280lb-ft @ 5500rpm - 21/29/24 MPG 2022 Lexus RX 350 F Sport - 4222 lbs - 3.5v6 - 295HP/268lb-ft @ 4700rpm - 19/26/22 MPG 2022 Volvo XC60 (B5)- 4008 lbs - 2.0T - 247HP/258 lb-ft @ 1800rpm - 22/28/24 MPG 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA 35 - 3653 lbs- 2.0T - 302HP/295 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm - 22/30/25 MPG BMW X3 xDrive30i - 4149 lbs - 2.0T - 248HP/258 lb-ft @ 1450 rpm - 21/28/24 MPG BMW X5 xDrive40i - 4863 - 3.0T - 335HP / 330 lb-ft @ 1500 RM - 21/23/25 Infiniti QX50 - 4105 lbs - 2.0T - 268HP/280 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm - 22/28/25 MPG Audi Q5 - 4079 lbs - 2.0T - 261HP/273 lb-ft @ 1600 RPM - 23/28/25 MPG So honestly it's about in-line with the rest of the class, which in general aren't that great on gas mileage.

[@tahran5782]

Who a acura rdx vs Genesis Gv 70

[@largecarken8504]

Beautiful little ride but the fuel economy needs to be better than 23 combined.

[@carylhalfwassen8555]

I have 2022 mid level rdx and mileage is poor. Little more road noise on highway than other vehicles in this price range. Otherwise good suv. Awesome sound system.

[@goatsplitter]

Good info, thanks. My life circumstances are changing and kind of pushing me out of my beloved manual, which is fine. But I've had CVT in the past and CANNOT stand them - and there aren't that many Japanese traditional auto on the market anymore. This is a great option and is probably what I'll be pulling the trigger on.

[@MrMegatron85]

I got one of these, same color too. Absolutely love it. Since everything is going EV, I'll probably just keep it forever.

[@MrMegatron85]

My only gripe is the screen being split in two, and not having a way to disable that. And the exhaust could sound better, but that's an easy fix

[@robertcampbell9992]

Bought the 2024, extremely happy.

[@TheKingkingg]

I Still love my 2020 2.0T Acura RDX A SPEC, but improvements is improvements.

[@ticolindo2010]

The A-Spec models what kind of seat does Milano have? The red one is the best for me. The flat floor in the back is very nice. A great option to consider. Love Drew.

[@HMAutos8324]

Love the new setup!

[@CarConfections]

Thank you!

[@darriontunstall3708]

I like it! It’s really nice! I love the metal speaker grills!

[@REVLIMITER3]

I own a 2023 Acura RDX A Spec Advance and it's smooth as silk and makes driving a pleasure

[@mr.foxwiz1653]

I just purchased the RDX Advanced A-spec and it is a great car. So far, the mileage has not been good, I average about 20 MPG both freeway and highway, but from what I understand, the mileage should get better when the engine breaks in. The infotainment system takes a bit to get used to it, but once it's set up, I use Apple Car Play and don't need to manipulate the pad at all.

[@InvictusRed1911]

Unfortunately I've gotten better mileage using premium gas and not driving like an asshole which is counter intuitive for this car lol. Premium and keeping the adaptive cruise capped at 65 and hanging out in the right lane on long stretches gives me 28mpg over 180 miles. Even pumping it to 75mph the MPG nosedives to like 23/24 and don't even hope to stay above 21mpg if you're averaging 85 mph. I got better mileage and more horsepower from my v6 according with VCM for cylinder deactivation on the highway but admittedly it's a lighter car. Good news is that the mileage on the RDX is average for it's class and weight

[@Chiroman527]

I have a 22 MDX Advanced. NO, the MPGs did not improve on my car. I'd say I'm getting about 80-85% of the reported EPA numbers. The City Mileage really SUX. On the Highway doing about 75MPH, I'm getting about 23-23.5 (winter Gas Bledn is worse).

[@dparis2172]

What’s the difference between “freeway” and “highway”? Did you mean “city” and “highway”?

[@Sleepyboiwonder]

I honestly love the button and cockpit style interior. Looks so different

[@heshamqasim]

Love your videos ..keep it up guys 👍👍

[@arnoagur7777]

If they made a touch screen I'd buy it tomorrow. But unfortunately that would require a complete redesign to bring the screen closer to the driver, probably the next generation.

[@Jimmy_Rodentcliff]

Agreed. I test drove this and really liked it but that interior is dated and needs a refresh. Ended up going for the Genesis GV70.

[@LanceWard-qh5sx]

Three things I’d really appreciate in reviews especially SUV reviews: towing capacity, spare tire availability and can you unlock all the doors from the rear doors.

[@marcusbrutus1999]

Another good report. Car Confections are one of the few reviewers, who take their vehicles in to town, instead of quiet country roads like other reviewers seem to do. I think though, they need to be more critical and are sometimes 'too kind' about a feature which is not good. For instance, RDX's 23 mpg average is very poor but, it's typical for a 2 litre turbo. 2 litre turbos seem to get no better mpg than a V or straight 6 - like for like. I would have liked less chat about Germans all the time. How about Infinity, Lexus, Lincoln and Caddy? The title of the review mentions Lexus, but there was little or no comment how the RDX compares with the NX. Also, to suggest the Honda engine is not as refined as the Merc 2 litre is interesting. I know the Merc 2 litre engine well and refined it most certainly is not. I think we all get a bit over-enamored with anything coming out of Germany.

[@kristengalloway2667]

I like Acura they make amazing looking vehicles but I wish they would make the touchscreens touchable, and not always rely on the touchpad to do it. It’ll be more easier for drivers on the road🤔 but other than that the car is a win😊

[@theholt2ic219]

I don’t understand why Acura does this. I feel like a touchscreen would be sooo much better

[@shawyonsharifi3394]

Good new, they are now for the 2025 model!

[@tanekiagrant8479]

Mason and Drew can y'all do a Acura RDX versus a Genesis gv70 I want to see which one that'll come on top

[@CarConfections]

We might be able to if we can find equivalent versions 👍

[@charlesjackson1700]

I like the Car Confection , sugary donut 🍩.. It makes me want one! 😋

[@CarConfections]

😂😂

[@josephpayton2055]

5:38 Drew what was that! 😂.

[@YANKS8723]

Since you guys have tested both...A spec vs A spec advance? Which would you buy and is the A spec advance worth the extra 4-5k. Thanks!

[@MrMegatron85]

Get the A spec. Just make sure to get the 16 speaker audio.

[@YANKS8723]

@@MrMegatron85 they're both A spec and both have the 16 speaker system

[@MrMegatron85]

@@YANKS8723 what I'm saying is, all you need is the regular aspec because your really not missing much going with the aspec advanced

[@CarConfections]

Well it really just depends on if the few extra features matter to you. It's certainly not essential but we really miss the 360 camera on the regular A-Spec

[@YANKS8723]

@@CarConfections Haha that's the one thing my wife said would be a deal breaker for her. Guess I'll be checking out the a spec advance.

[@Retired_Radio_Ron]

Can you repeat those front seat options again? Just kidding! Gave me a good laugh. I’ve always liked Acura! The RDX is a very well designed vehicle and I’m sure it has done very well for Acura. Another great review. Thanks!

[@aanand21]

So detailing. Awesome job guys.

[@nuzairahmed187]

Hi can you make a video of the new Mazda CX-90

[@RealKevGotEm]

I wonder if it will be redesigned for 2024

[@jj5515]

WHEn will the new design be out?

[@josephpayton2055]

The front is massaged lightly but idk it looks different but it doesnt at the same time. Maybe its because the headlights have more jewels and is thinner than the pre refreshed.

[@shockwave402]

Just me or are the front logo and exhaust pipes like...comically large?

[@DivyangM]

If you lift the other half of the floor mat at the back, there is more storage.

[@ryanfrisby7389]

Excellent review as always!

[@CarConfections]

Thanks as always, Ryan!

[@Blackandwhitecat-u9v]

Tough for me to decide between this Acura RDX and the BMW X3 😮

[@your_royal_highness]

No to the former, yes to the latter. It might be slightly more engaging that the NX 350 but does not compare to a German car. Not even close. Especially with the truly annoying engine noise, funky tech and front wheel AWD bias. Handles pretty well, not as fast as the engine sound will have you expect. Like other car makers, they pump fake engine noise into the cabin, which is unbelievably stupid. I would put the GV 70 ahead of the RDX (easily ahead actually). Acura and Lexus are the top dogs on likely reliability and lower cost to maintain.

[@MrOktsx]

Wish Acura would offer the Orchid interior color with more exterior color combinations.

[@romeropostali520]

I’m enjoying this front seat rear seat intro…. Lmao!

[@shyennegilzean5692]

U get luxury and reliability at the same time live Acura Honda products

[@noahb34]

I own a 2020 Rdx tech package for almost 3 years. It’s one of the best cars for it’s price. But the engine is annoyingly way too loud for a luxury car. Actually just not luxury, it’s much noisier than any mainstream car. You hear it’s growling noise each time you step on gas in every stop and go. That’s biggest complaint I have.

[@TheFLGators17]

Can't wait for the day they get rid of that dumb touch pad Other than that it's great it, Acura does a great job with the RDX

[@janwilliams3433]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXXGhZ2VftyWj8k

[@bq-9238]

As much as I love this car the absence of a real gear lever is a dealbreaker for me.

[@janwilliams3433]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4jQaGCmjNqbfKs

[@snowballandpals]

Haven't test drove this yet but not a fan of the button shifting

[@scottbrawley407]

2023 Acura RDX A-Spec SH-AWD!

[@ll1883]

The driver dash and the touch screen in the middle is really outdated for a luxury car, I even ask if I get the most topped packaged one the driver dash will stay the same, which is a big big let down for me just like the Audi Q5. On the other hand Mercedes, Lexus and have way better luxury feeling with the interior design.

[@josephpayton2055]

Good afternoon you 2!

[@johnsonle9440]

Im hoping for type s version of rdx one day

[@naveenthemachine]

Yes it’s a much better buy over Lexus. But not Mercedes. I’d say it’s on par w the gv70

[@Kazze1]

I sorta agree. However I do believe the gv70 is much nicer in some categories (ie. power adjusting steering wheel, digital cluster)

[@naveenthemachine]

@@Kazze1 yeah but driving experience wise they’re close. Gv70 is a tad better but not far off

[@rahimi4762]

RDX is better driving. SHAWD the best

[@rahimi4762]

Genesis ain’t winning races. Acura is

[@Kazze1]

@@rahimi4762 guess what. Neither rdx drivers nor gv70 drivers are racing their cars.

[@davidm4099]

More reliable for sure!

[@joskjj3625]

More reliable than Lexus? Absolutely not

[@matthewlowry3726]

I do like the look of the RDX but when it came down to it…the Jeep Grand Cherokee really was the true SUV….I got my Grand Cherokee Limited in October and I love everything about it. My main thing was I wanted more metal around me and get the safety features I really need. The black out features and tan interior looks great and I am loving everything about it.

[@Only60GamesPlayed]

I WOULD PREFER THE MDX! HAD A 2019 RDX ON LEASE…LOVED THAT SUV! STILL NO POWER TILT/TELESCOPING STEERING WHEEL OR V6 ENGINE. DOES IT HAVE APPLE CARPLAY? OTHER THAN MY FEW GRIPES, IT WAS A GREAT SUV! INFOTAINMENT WAS A NIGHTMARE THOUGH!

[@MrNemo721]

Not a fan of that touchpad infotainment even if I enjoyed how it drove when I tested one. I'm Still partial to a Mazda CX5 turbo or a Genesis GV70 They really should make a RDX Type-S with the turbo six

[@rezneba101]

not sure why you'd be interested in the type-s if you're looking at the cx5... it'll be like half the price.

[@philpernice4722]

Yes no one is cross shopping this against a mazda

[@damionjordan6616]

You cant say Mazda and Acura in the same sentence!!! 😂

[@joskjj3625]

@@damionjordan6616 let’s be honest is Acura any better? Acura isn’t true luxury unlike Lexus and the big three German luxury brands, Acura is more like Buick

[@damionjordan6616]

@@joskjj3625 …Lexus is so overpriced and overrated, a fancy Toyota will never do

[@comeconcon569]

The Acura RDX is better-looking than the Lexus NX.

[@mj8495]

And more room...especially for bigger drivers 😊

[@meleenabradley3017]

Was interested till the rear seats didn't recline 😞

[@shannon5142]

Will always be on of my top 3 dream SUVs! Just gorgeous ❤️

[@spinedoc893]

Would it be too much to ask for an actual shifter for the transmission.?? Small detail but drives me friggin nuts! This one especially with its multiple buttons. My wife just bought an RDX. Love it but shifter is AWFUL. I have a RAM pickup with the stupid rotary dial for the trans. LOVE the truck HATE the shifter!! PLEASE just put shifter levers back in cars!!!

[@mj8495]

The shifter turns out to be a non-issue in most drives. Get in, push the button. Get to destination and push button. Done. Really not much interaction with it at all. 😊

[@Chiroman527]

Incredibly, Acura does Not Include electric Steering Wheel adjustor?? Common Acura , really ?

[@jpowers7529]

I get acura or Lexus over German brands .

[@jmm1817]

Engine suck in the new RDXs. I have an 18 with the V6. Smooth and Powerful

[@jimmyluu6522]

No touchscreen and only one engine option that’s sad I’m waiting for the Mazda CX 70

[@lordkosc]

Amazing headlights and front end.

[@ELP1125]

They need to updated the interior though. Ditch that trackapd also 🤮

[@shuehet3235]

Good car

[@marksimonds13]

0:50 - engine sounds like a sewing machine...

[@charlesjackson1700]

It's a sound common with direct injection. It really stands out as louder on a microphone. 🎙️🎤

[@Chester-yu1tm]

Yep’ Mark, Honda manufactures the most powerful, the most dependable, the most fuel efficient internal combustion sewing machine engines on planet earth.

[@gch8155]

This suv without gear stick ..isn’t worth it😫

[@ELPJM09]

Acura has never screamed luxury. Lexus makes sharp and unique designs with great interiors. Acura’s exteriors and interior just look so bland. If I was buying in the Japanese luxury market I’d invest money on a Lexus.

[@R3c0nf1gur3d]

Does this have ambient lighting?

[@LexxLuther100]

Wanna see the refresh. This body style has been out for awhile

[@dadoo985]

No digital instrument cluster yet?

[@jordankanouse7960]

Lexus NX350 f-sport 3 is better test drive both u will see

[@rosreif4033]

If you have the money to pay 6 to 8 thousand dollars over msrp

[@chrizz6350]

Its doesnt look like a luxury SUV. Would take the lexus RX 450h over it

[@rickygreengiant]

That center area with the gear shift is straight hideous… and that gage cluster. Wth…

[@AAhmad3449]

I’ll take genesis gv70 or Volvo xc60

[@doobydoboop]

The dashboard is so ugly :c

[@transitrider77]

I would add roof rails. Looks weird to me without them.

[@dparis2172]

Yeah, that center stack is so Honda. Yuck.

[@wendylees4382]

Omg, still no touchscreen? Even their Hondas have touchscreen. “I’m such a fan of the touchpad” said no one, ever!

[@wardellward]

Real talk the Rdx is Similar to the Honda CRV

[@cadmanjack4964]

5:37 is phenomenal!

[@lilyshamanova5941]

😂😂😂

[@HeadHondo]

Great engine and great specs but the design looks like a 2019 Civic on HGH.

[@gusar2000]

When Acura brings back V6? 😡

[@jackwong64]

Somehow I never look at Acura, its like Honda to me, same as Lexus, it's a Toyota.

[@imdone1967]

So what do you look at?

[@jackwong64]

Hyundai/KIA, but the US car dealership sell it way above MSRP, like a EU car, I'm sticking with the 2019 Tiguan for now. Maybe Tesla if they support Apple carplay. I'm more interested to get a PHEV these days.

[@imdone1967]

@@jackwong64 a Tiguan , 🤣 I'm speachless....

[@imdone1967]

@@jackwong64 Hyundai and Kia? Once again I'm speechless...

[@jackwong64]

@@imdone1967 ok

[@Delta922]

23 mpg combined......that sucks 👎😠

[@cmayy8317]

Jesus Christ is the only way❤Psalm 23:4😊

[@pebblez_]

Lol american idol

[@atulyaop2803]

First

[@brandonUwanawich954]

Interior is horrrrrible

[@chrisa.8175]

No! Lexus is better quality!!

[@drewfoster4607]

Jesus that is an ugly car inside and out. No no no!

[@janwilliams3433]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mGa4pnqVj6qXgck

[@bizzybezz]

I've noticed when you review the 4 cyl stuff you give a meh face lol but with a bmw 4 cyl you give a smile face lol so i assume bmw even with a 4 is much funnier and powerful? 😊

[@CarConfections]

Right. The German turbo 4's are generally about a second faster to 60 than the Japanese ones

[@maga6319]

It's surprising that Lexus holds their value than Acura. Whatever happen to Honda. Is it becoming like Nissan nowadays?

[@arhamkhakwani5851]

It would seem Honda is trying to create itself a new identity. One can see that in design, but it’s getting more simpler yet boring. Unlike Honda, Mazda does simple yet fun and engaging.

[@maga6319]

@@arhamkhakwani5851 Mazda is only getting the praised because of partnering with toyota. Without toyota, they would be the same like in 2012-2021 era.

[@arhamkhakwani5851]

@@maga6319 True. I’m sure some of the funding came from Toyota. However with the CX-90, it’s a step in the right direction.

[@imdone1967]

​​​@@maga6319lmao... The CX5 has been praised since it was released Years ago.... The new CX50 is all mazda... The New CX-90 is all Mazda. Talk out your arse more!