BMW X3 vs. Acura RDX: The Best Crossover For Around $50K Isn't What You're Expecting!

[@hyperautodetailing4868]

RDX is still holding its ground after being one of the older models (current gen debut 2019), I purchased a 2021 SH-AWD last year for my sister and it's a joy to drive.

[@kristians2704]

the current gen X3 debut in 2018

[@jasonschwanke916]

Bought a 2021RDX A-spec last year as well for my wife's new daily driver. We both love it. Perfect amount of comfort and luxury for her while having the sportiness and tech that I enjoy in a smaller vehicle. I daily drive a truck, so when I get in something smaller like a crossover or sedan I want it to be sporty, fun and handle with precision. The RDX does it all.

[@madmaz74]

I have the 2020 RDX A-Spec and I think it’s fantastic. There’s something about Honda/Acura cars that make their driving dynamics natural and sporty. You jump into a new one and it feels like you’ve been driving it for years.

[@sk-un5jq]

Yeah, Hondas are so much more fun to drive and better in all the major categories, ie. Civic > Corolla, Accord > Camry, CRV > RAV4.

[@Larry-nz9pi]

Both are very nice vehicles. If I was leasing and turning it in at the end, I would choose the BMW. Acura would be my choice for long term ownership

[@thethreatwrestling.7053]

Remember BMW is money pit for maintenance, and repairs Acura is way more reliable, has more durability, and cheaper to maintain or repair. The BMW are known to be more comfortable in a mechanic shop than over the owner's house garage.

[@kristians2704]

@@thethreatwrestling.7053 the BMW is better to drive, looks better and has a nicer interior.

[@thethreatwrestling.7053]

@@kristians2704 The BMW is a nice looking car or course. I made the comment more for the reliability and the money saving in comparison. Acura has the luxury feeling as well but the BMW will be hurting the pocket because of the high cost for maintenance.

[@kristians2704]

@@allentoyokawa9068 BMW is trash? They're far far better than Acura. Check out the M340i, M3, X5, X7, M2 CS, M5 CS etc

[@xorbitman]

@@thethreatwrestling.7053 Not the new ones since 2018....I'm 66 years old and have been buying new vehicles since 1985 and we've been a 2 and 3 car family for 20 years, We purchased a brand new 2018 X1 and have never had to go back to the dealer for a since warranty issue. In fact I have a few friends with Bimmers and none of them have had any issues. You get a 4 year bumper to bumper warranty and 4 years of maintenance included. I've owned many brands of vehicles from Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Ford, GM, Nissan, Infiniti and have rented vehicles for about 1 month while on vacation and I can tell you the BMW is an excellent product and especially the infotainment system which I consider one of the best. If I had to choose between Mercedes MBUX and BMW it would be close however in the end the Bimmer would win because it's more reliable.

[@hluvv7607]

Proud owner of Acura 2021 RDX ASPEC SH

[@DM-xt3rl]

I have no idea why people are obsessed with touchscreens. The screens get filled up with fingerprints almost instantly and you have to continually clean them to see especially in sunlight. The touchpad in the Acura is far superior IMO. Once you get use to it the muscle memory for the touchpad is far less of a driving distraction than a touchscreen and you won’t have to worry about the fingerprints.

[@Wasabi9111]

Totally disagree. We use CarPlay 95% of the time and it’s designed to be used w a touchscreen. The Acura system is so hard to use, especially when using CarPlay. Acura should just make it a touchscreen and give ppl the option to use either.

[@sspringss2727]

@@Wasabi9111 they will... starting with the Integra...i believe next year's releases will bring forth that change.

[@izzythomas848]

People can say whatever they want about touchscreens and how Acura uses the trackpad. It's for _safety_ people. _Safety._ Acura doesn't want you lurching forward to screw around with the screen while you're driving.

[@GS-zc4sk]

If you can't figure out a trackpad. And you're too lazy to learn. Then don't use the system at all. Connect to your Bluetooth and put your phone in a cradle on the dash. How about both a trackpad and a stupid touch screen. Lord knows you can't get enough screen time when you're driving!

[@motorcyclevdiaries]

Yesterday I had to mute my gps while driving and on call, guess what almost got in an accident thanks to Acura. You can’t override your reflexes so touch screen always works

[@csears2709]

Just picked up the Acura RDX apsec advance shawd, so far love it! Amazing sound system and fun to drive. Great mpg compared to my 18 navigator And almost all the same tech for half the price. Having both in the driveway the rdx is the one I go to first.

[@sk-un5jq]

Good choice. BMW would have killed your wallet long-term.

[@bstevens9831]

The 2022 RDX with the SH-AWD( in the Advance and Tech pkgs ) has a spare tire( without AWD it does not ) underneath the rear of the car. Also, the adaptive dampers on the RDX requires the Advance package which helps the ride. The extra sound deadening and thicker glass requires Advance ( IIRC ). Freeway road noise is reduced to less than a whisper. Very quiet.

[@MidnightAspec]

Hmmm. I have a 22 MDX and 21 TLX and don’t remember ever having accidentally brushed against any of the steering wheel buttons. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@ivannarvaez367]

I think Acura has the best value in this segment, drives great, and looks great. They have a winner.

[@ivannarvaez367]

@footballcoreano Are you on crack?

[@Snookynibbles]

@footballcoreano ,You are funny…or you must be bored. Anyone who knows anything about auto brands understands your assessment is 180 degrees out of synch. Though BMW touts itself as being “the ultimate driving machine”, it’s a far cry when it comes to engineering excellence, reliability, and where the proof of that are in high maintenance costs with low resale values; most Beemers are leased for these reasons. Conversely, Acuras (the premier Honda line) enjoy the legacy of superior engineering, especially in drive trains, solid reliability, low cost of ownership, and with all of this, high resale values. There’s a mountain of evidence to back-up my claims.

[@traelz]

I absolutely love the X3, a very understated yet classy vehicle

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

I just sold my 2019 BMW X4 and bought the Acura RDX with the Technology Package. I really liked the X4 and it was a great driving, great traveling car. The RDX is also a great driving, and great traveling car, and I’d have to disagree with you about the road noise in the RDX. Mine has 19” wheels, which may make a difference, but in my experience, the RDX and X4 are very close in interior road noise. Typical for German cars, the BMW has very firm seats, and locked down road manners, but the Acura has more plush seats, and a softer ride. I am getting used to the Acura infotainment system, but have to say the BMW system is more intuitive, easier to use, and just better. The biggest issue I have with the RDX is the fuel economy. Even driving very easy, I’ve never gotten close the the listed EPA mileage. It’s still new, with less than a thousand miles on it, but best I’ve seen on the highway is about 23-24mpg. The X4 on the other hand would get 31-32 mpg under the same conditions! That’s a big difference! The BMW requires premium fuel and the Acura Recommends premium fuel. Both the X4 and the RDX have the Lane Keep and Autonomous Driving features, but the Acura is far superior to the BMW system. The BMW would ping pong you down the road between the lines, and require you to put your hands back on the wheel within about 20 seconds. The Acura will go a long way without driver input but will ask for steering input after a while. The Acura will keep the car nicely centered in the lane with no back and forth nonsense. Maybe the newer BMWs have gotten better. My biggest reason for moving to the Acura is because I’m getting close to retirement and I wanted a nice reliable car that will be trouble free for years to come. I’ve had several BMWs and I hate to say it, but they do tend to develop oil leaks and expensive Maint/repair issues when they get 60-70k miles, and I don’t need to be paying $3000 for an oil pan gasket leak!

[@McDiamondspvp]

do you use premium in the acura if it recommends it that's where you will get better mpg at

[@terryys5558]

that's really helpful buddy. I am driving a X3 now and RDX is the one I consider to buy in the next few months. Do you feel any big difference between their audio feels like?

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

@@terryys5558 audio? As in stereo sound system?

[@terryys5558]

@@razorsedgeadventures6599 Yes. I think it is call elsa 3D sys. How is that?

[@isactucker3788]

@@terryys5558 Active noise canceling and microphones to project your voice to hear others. It sounds so good that it gives you goosebumps if you play intersteller. You should test drive one. You will love it.

[@evanlee3619]

Last year I spent half a year to choose a favorite SUV with budge 80k-90k CAD, I tested drive some candidates (GLE450, X5, GV80, RX350, Q7, MDX etc ), I found all the German's turbo cars were trash but money pit ! I didn't like the feeling of turbo engines running, I never cared about 1 seconds less or more of 1-100km drag & race. I finally bought a 2022 MDX of top notch with 80k CAD, in almost every aspect it surplus other cars. i am loving and enjoying my everyday driving to /from work, I have decided that my next car will MDX be type S.

[@susangoodrichlerner7819]

If you keep opening the back floor of the RDX, there quite a bit of extra storage space

[@tommy13965]

I believe the rdx is outselling the gv70 so I don’t think Acura is to worried about it.

[@kristians2704]

that's only because of the brand. We all know that the GV70 is objectively much better

[@tommy13965]

@@kristians2704 nope it’s just that I don’t trust cars from Hyundai and Kia even though they give you a 10 year warranty I still prefer the rdx over the gv70 but that’s just me.👍🏻

[@patricioolmedo9533]

Tbh, as good as the genesis might seem to be, Acura and BMW are way better built, have more reliable engines, and are better brands, which is the reason why both the RDX and the X3 are the most popular and best selling.

[@les2997]

@@kristians2704 Genesis drop in value like a rock.

[@outlander1969]

Yes agree the drop in value on genesis is correct. But I'm curious the ride between these I found the RDX better and the suspension to comfort needs to be dialed in for a fair evaluation not on sport mode

[@johnnybyup]

Great comparison. I'm hoping to pick up the RDX this summer/fall. BMW X3 is nice, but the sportiness and value packed RDX is more attractive for my household. I wish Acura gave us a touchscreen vs TTI + increased towing capacity to at least 2200lbs. Acura is doing a great job keeping up with the German brands.

[@alvacole2372]

I actually much prefer the touch pad as opposed to a touch screen, because I don't have to worry about getting fingerprints all over my screen. The way they have the touchpad work also allows you to make selections based on muscle memory, so you can do it without looking.

[@mike43lake]

As others have mentioned, there is a lot of emphasis put on the fact that the RDX does not have a touchscreen. The problem with touch screens are when you use them while the car is in motion, and you hit a bump or aren’t extremely careful you end up hitting the wrong buttons. Touch screens are great while the car is parked but when you’re driving you end up hitting the wrong button often.

[@andreipretorius92]

Nice review. We went for the X3 M40i. Met most of the requirements that were needed.

[@ssaini5028]

more expensive but a good choice indeed

[@richarddawson5836]

The M40i is a beast and blows away most in the segment but is also 25k more than the Acura.

[@xorbitman]

@@richarddawson5836 But less than a similarly equipped Porsche Macan.

[@richarddawson5836]

@@xorbitman You're paying for the Porsche name. The Audi SQ5 is the same engine as the Macan S and would be similar priced as the BMW M40i.

[@andreipretorius92]

@@layne4376 that’s good to know. Only small city cars get that type of gas mileage

[@karlitop7497]

I feel like I'm the only one that doesn't mind the RDX not having a touch screen. Like when im driving I mostly using the steering wheel to change songs , volume and the phyical buttons for HVAC. Not the end of the world

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

I agree! I have touch screens on several cars/trucks, and it’s a pain trying to touch just the right spot on the screen while driving down any road that isn’t glass smooth. Not to mention the finger prints all over a touch screen. The RDX touch pad takes some getting used to, but once you master it it’s much better than reaching for a touch screen two feet out in front of you.

[@gleej8120]

I ended up with the new RDX exactly like the one tested here. I really like the engaging driving experience. I did test drive both the 4 and 6 cyl GV70s. While I loved the interior design, I did not like the lack of connectedness to the road. The 4 cyl was also a bit harsh. What really got me though was the infotainment set up. The screen was a touchscreen, but way too far away to comfortably use it. The gear shift mechanism and the infotainment system are the same size and placed right next to one another...and the gear changer was closest to the driver as your arm rested on the armrest...I would want the infotainment controller in that position. Plus, the dealer was adding a $2k markup on all GV70s, in addition to tinting windows, adding door edge film and the rear bumper applique, plus some paint treatment which added another $1.5k to the price.

[@drnick40]

I have 2019 RDX. Zero problems for 3 years! Fun to drive, tons of room. All the quirks with the infotainment system are piece of cake to get used to… I had BMW’s before and although great vehicles, they had a fair share of issues, not talking about the cost to own them. The test of time will be 100% in Acura’s favor. It’s just the better car.

[@AgonxOC]

BMW of the last 10+ years tend to be very reliable and the cars from 6 or so years ago tend to be extremely trouble free these days.

[@cpg8000]

3yrs of reliability isn’t meaningful. It’s 4 or 5yrs plus when problems arise

[@pargolf3158]

@@cpg8000 My 2004 TSX with zero problems says "hold my beer"

[@atmartens]

I currently own a first generation RDX and love it. I’d happily upgrade to a new one. The reliability of the Acura can’t be beaten by expensive German repairs.

[@AgonxOC]

Expensive German repairs? BMWs made in the last 6-7 years are very much trouble free. They also drive much much better than the Acura. The interiors are also very much better looking and better laid out. Acura interior these days DO NOT age well.

[@atmartens]

@@AgonxOC you’re crazy if you think BMW, or any German, repairs don’t cost much. ANY mechanic KZbin channel will talk about how much it costs MUCH more.

[@AgonxOC]

@@atmartens they do not. When you compare luxury to luxury it costs about the same. Go price brakes for a Lexus or Acura at the dealer and report back. You’d be shocked to find out how much they are. I have been working on cars for 25 years. It’s a hobby of mine and I service my own cars and friends cars.

[@Grovalife]

Own a 2019 Acura A-spec with 31k and have averaged 25MPG. Although, I noticed much better MPG after 10k which was more like 20MPG. Live in AZ

[@garrettblack1259]

Was that first 10k miles during summer? Could explain the worse MPG with heavy AC use.

[@Grovalife]

@@garrettblack1259 10K first year of ownership. In AZ the AC is on regardless of time of year lol.

[@richarddawson5836]

Why are you comparing the Acura Aspec with the base BMW? The base Acura is 6k cheaper than the base BMW and comes with more options including pano sunroof, wireless apple and android, blind spot, and has a spare tire where the BMW doesn't and uses noisy run flats.

[@TheMstwntdLMSV123]

The audio system in the Acura is leaps and bounds ahead of the one in the BMW

[@w1nnin]

Sold my 20 x4mc n made 💰 to find there were no cars on the lot. I wanted a X3m40i but i wasn’t waiting a million years to pay a mark up also. Ended up getting a 21 rdx aspec and im amazed how much i enjoy the car. Yes i miss the power of the x4mc but i had fast cars since 17. The rdx aspec is a good car for those who choose to leave bmw based on the empty car lots.

[@tonytee2107]

Thanks for your thorough review. I am leaning RDX. However, the Genesis GV70 is made by the Genesis division of Hyundai. Not in my driveway. KEEP it!

[@richarddawson5836]

I drove all in the segment (Audi, Bmw, Genesis, Porsche) and ended up going with the base Acura. It is by far the best value for what you get. If money and reliability was not an issue than I would go for the BMW m40i. It actually rides smother than the XM and just as fast. That engine is amazing and so much fun to drive but it's also 25k more than the Acura and maintenance would be a nightmare.

[@richarddawson5836]

@footballcoreano It's clear english is not your language since you made no sense. Acura is basically Honda and along with Lexus/Toyota are the most reliable cars in the world. BMW are by far the better handling but are TERRIBLE with maintenance as anyone who has owned one would tell you. Try using google translate next time before you ramble on like an idiot.

[@wongchai807]

@footballcoreano said no one ever lol

[@rahimi4762]

@@richarddawson5836 not if u got SHAWD

[@Mc.Nuggetz]

@footballcoreano The way you write I suspect you’re 13 years old and can’t even drive. Especially since you’re saying BMW is the most reliable, when it’s ALWAYS near the bottom of reliability ratings.

[@Bread_n_Butter.]

@@wongchai807 You made them delete their comment. 😂🤣

[@StopDropandLOL]

Just rented an RDX for a few days. First time I’ve ever taken a vehicle for a long distance trip and not had back pain or fatigue after. The most comfortable seats I’ve been in since the older Volvo V70 ones (01-07)

[@mrgold3591]

I was all set to upgrade my 08 RDX Tech with a 19 RDX Adv sh-awd back in 2019. Wasn't much difference between either RDX in combined mpgs, power, handling, acceleration, and road noise. Test drove a 19 MDX Adv Sport Hybrid for fun and that was an improvement in every category above the 1st/3rd Gen RDX. I now have +32,000 trouble free miles 24-26 mpgs with 425-450 mile range after +3 years of ownership of my MDX hybrid. Acura's Sport Hybrid 64hp/71tq powertrain is what the RDX needs mated to the 2.0T to really push it to the top (RDX Sport Hybrid would have 336hp/351tq, 27-28 combined mpgs for $1500 more).

[@luisvargasmena3140]

I've got a RDX 2022 Aspec and loving it so far. Inside and out.

[@MrGarfield4]

I own a 2020 RDX Tech, SH-AWD. 15k miles so far. This car puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. Annually, I average about 27 mpg, the EPA highway rating (I don’t drive it hard, but push it occasionally). On 2 different road trips from MA to NC and back, I got 30 mpg without hyper-miling it. Last weekend I tried the diagonal test that Car Question uses. A tough test for many vehicles and it aced the test…even starting from a dead stop up a fairly steep snowy/icy slope AND starting with the left rear wheel off the ground due to articulation. Then repeated the test in reverse…aced again. BTW, my car is fitted with (4) snow un-studded tires. Love this car, probably the best car I have owned so far (I have owned many). 👍 Acura!

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

Man, I wish my 22 RDX could get that kind of mileage. Driving as easy as I can on long highway trips I’m lucky to squeez 24mpg out of it.

[@MrGarfield4]

@@razorsedgeadventures6599 from what I have found, speed is a MAJOR factor. I do MUCH better MPG at 65 mph than 70 mph. We just made the same trip in my wife’s Mazda CX-30 and averaged 35+ mpg. The RDX is definitely roomier and has much better seat comfort. The trip from MA to NC and back is about $280 vs. $400 at today’s gas prices (1900 miles round trip). My only real complaint on the RDX is that it has turned into a big bucket of rattles below 50*. Warmer weather it’s fine. Kinda a BIG bummer (19.5K miles now). I am now kinda disappointed. 😕

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

@@MrGarfield4 yeah, of course speed is going to be a factor, but in todays world of 70/75/ and 80 mph interstate speed limits, a vehicles EPA rating should reflect real world speeds. I get the idea the 27 highway mpg rating for the RDX must have been achieved at 55 mph because I don’t think it’s possible at 70. My X4 easily got 32 mpg average at 70-75 mph speeds. I hope cold weather dosent cause a bunch of rattles in this RDX. I hate cars that rattle!

[@MrGarfield4]

@@razorsedgeadventures6599 frontal area plays a big part. My ‘16 TLX with the K24 and the 8 speed dual clutch would get an honest calculated 40 mpg driving at 70 mph. I achieved those numbers several times. The frontal area was much smaller. I suspect your X4 is the same phenomenon. From what I gather on the RDX forums, I am not alone in the rattles department. I have been driving Honda products for 20 years. The RDX is the most expensive car I have ever purchased and, like my other Honda products, has been dead reliable so far. I actually have no reason to believe otherwise. However, rattly car drive me crazy also…almost to the point of trading it. 🙁

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

@@MrGarfield4 ugh… I don’t like the sounds of that. FYI, the X4 is a BMW SUV of very similar dimensions and power train to the RDX. For whatever reason, the performance oriented company (BMW) manages 30% better fuel economy from their 2 liter turbo SUV than the economy car company (Honda/Acura) can with their 2 liter turbo SUV. Go figure! By the way, in 35,000 miles, my X4 never had a rattle anywhere!

[@vvt2257]

To be honest, Acura should’ve done what Lexus did which is bring the screen forward a couple of inches and have it as a touchscreen and touchpad controlled system.

[@GoBrand0n]

Lexus ancient Interior and exterior?? You have a bad taste of true Luxury

[@Frank-sy3li]

Love that these reviews get posted first thing Saturday morning!

[@vincecuffaro7134]

Acura has: Better AWD, safer ratings, longer lasting, better quality and higher resale value than Genesis/Hyundai :)

[@kozodoev]

better AWD? lmao. not in this universe. It's a transverse layout without a central diff. It's a discount AWD. Cheaper, but inferior to any longitudinal system such as Quattro, xDrive or even Subaru's symmetric AWD.

[@snowman2834]

Love Nathan, he has the most brutal straight forward approach, the rest are trying to be soft to not hurt manufacturer's feelings, Nathan is my guy 💪🏻

[@mikecrowe99]

Yes!! Please make more videos like this! I hope you will compare SUVs at 45k, 40k, etc.

[@Gemini530]

BMW for me. You just feel a little more special on the road when you drive it. Plus it looks more classy inside and out.

[@comeonman9138]

😂😂😂😂

[@_Romans10.9_]

Touch screen looks cool and all but after 5 years of driving my tesla, it is inconvenient when driving, you have to lean forward, sometimes you touch the wrong option and it distracts from the driving. I'd rather do without it or an option for the pad and touch.

[@NONARCS]

I appreciate the comparison, but how can you get in a BMW and not know: 1.there is a sport and sport plus button next to your shifter that makes it super sharp 2. The shifter can be moved to sport transmission 3. That BMW measure HP at the wheels and Acura measures it at the crank. Here is the reality: the X3 in sport plus with sport tran selected can out handle and out perform that RDX all day long. The power at the crank is 290 with 285ft lbs. That doesn teven get into the launch control mode the BMW comes with that opens an additional 20 hp for 10 seconds. There is no comparison here, even the q5 can't keep up with the 2022 X3. Not to mention there is no comparison to the M40i from Acura.. no option beyond aspec.

[@hondatrix]

Acura all the way....

[@rightwingsafetysquad9872]

I'd suggest checking out the Lincoln Nautilus. The single most comfortable car I've ever sat in. It's obvious they cut corners elsewhere in the interior to make room in the budget for the seats, but it was well worth it in my opinion. Too many people sleep on Lincoln.

[@lukeheffernan]

I would personally be concerned with reliability. Beautiful cars though.

[@HKN_RealReviews]

Just want to point out there’s additional storage in the cargo floor of the RDX if you lift the second portion of the floor panel. Also only A-Spec and A-Spec Advance models come without spares. Base, Technology, & Advance models all come with spares which are located under the rear of the vehicle not in the cargo floor. The access point is in the same area of under floor storage in the first section.

[@sammyg4806]

My tech RDX came with no spare. But that’s okay, I use the storage area as cooler for beers and drinks. The rubber plug in the hole (where the spare would be attached) is used as the cooler’s drain plug. Win-win.

[@HKN_RealReviews]

@@sammyg4806 not sure why yours didn’t come with one as a Tech model but you seem to have found the proper use for it 😎🤙🏾🤙🏾

[@sammyg4806]

@@HKN_RealReviews I have a 2021 model. Not sure, if 2022 changed that.

[@HKN_RealReviews]

@@sammyg4806 no change. Every 2021 I sold that wasn’t an A-Spec came with a spare. That’s why it’s so odd you didn’t have one.

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

@@HKN_RealReviews my 22 Technology has no spare.

[@mrgreen9086]

Yeah I never understood why consumers want large rims and tires. Personally I swap them for 18s cheaper and better ride

[@IKnewMickey]

The BMW grill looks like sunglasses Elton John wore in the 70's. I finally get there styling!

[@thethreatwrestling.7053]

The Acura RDX is the best vehicle for the money. Acura is more reliable, cheaper to maintain and you don't need to stop to a mechanic shop everytime as the BMW requires more attention to take care of the vehicle and is a money pit (hectic).

[@kristians2704]

most people that buy/lease new luxury cars don't keep them for more than 3-6 years and almost all cars are reliable for that time. The X3 drives better, has a nicer interior and imo looks better

[@59thfsaviation79]

It was between these two, but I went with the M40i. B58, fun, and looks great. Not perfect, but for me, it was the only choice.

[@independentmind85]

I think the Acura looks much nicer on the road. Stands out in a sea of X3s.

[@kristians2704]

I don't know how it can stand out if they sell about the same.

[@rightwingsafetysquad9872]

Where I am the RDX outsells the X3 probably 2:1 and the MDX outsells the entire BMW lineup.

[@kristians2704]

@@rightwingsafetysquad9872 where do you live?😂

[@rightwingsafetysquad9872]

@@kristians2704 Technically, I'm homeless. My job is 100% travel and pays for me to live out of hotels, kinda rough, but pays well enough I could buy a home with cash when I get tired of it. Anyway, my crew's territory is "Southern Ohio", but if you draw a rectangle with Pittsburgh just inside the northeast corner and Louisville just ouside the southwest corner, that's about it.

[@rightwingsafetysquad9872]

@japanwatchconnection Yes, Marysville is in that region; but I assure you, Honda is not overrepresented here (outside of Marysville itself). Jeep, RAM, and GMC sell so well in Ohio that all other brands are underrepresented compared to their national average. I'm willing to believe that the MDX outsells its national average in Ohio, but not the whole brand.

[@dominicfischio851]

good review, and i agree with most of what you said. however, the x3 is NOT less powerful. regardless of the reported numbers, bmw underrates their power, and acura seems to overrate their power on this rdx motor: the x3 is significantly faster, and the power is laid down much smoother than the rdx. overall, i have a slight preference for the rdx, but the x3 is faster, smoother power transfer, and quieter smoother ride. bmw destroys acura in a race, acura wins in reliability. both nice cars though 🚗

[@AgonxOC]

Absolutely True! BMW’s reported numbers are usually lower than reality.

[@dominicfischio851]

@@AgonxOC yea, i agree. my bro in law drives a 4cyl X3 & that thing is quicker & smoother power delivery than the rdx. that being said, i slightly prefer the rdx overall

[@La-yt1wr]

I’d take the Acura over the BMW. The only SUV’s in this segment that I like is the Stelvio and RDX.

[@kristians2704]

Macan, GV70?

[@Slim1986]

You really can't go wrong with both these vehicles, but I would pick the RDX. Also, I don't think Acura and BMW need to be concern about the Genesis.

[@jasonschwanke916]

Agree on Acura/BMW not being concerned about the GV70. It is a really nice vehicle, but Genesis as a brand just isn't there yet. They won't be getting anywhere near the sales volume anytime soon. It'll take another decade of superb manufacturing and marketing by Genesis to start making Acura, BMW, Lexus, Volvo, etc. nervous.

[@Slim1986]

@@jasonschwanke916 Exactly!!

[@user-tk7sc4gz2v]

I'll say this, if a vehicle like RDX was released under BMW or Mercedes.. it'll easily win the section without this much judgement of being Honda at the core. More room, more power, better handling, reliable engine and many other things are all there but still competing 😉

[@kendelion]

BMW here in japan offered me a 15k discount for a new X3 last year. Looking at the used market at that time the price drop is huge! I was about to get a Lexus too but the model was old now, and Acura is not sold here ironically. I got a GLC for 2yrs and will just replace it after with a more reliable lexus

[@moloono1]

Lexus reliability is luxury.

[@ejohnson3131]

I drive about 80 miles round trip to work each day, so no on the X3. Love the RDX A-Spec and Honda reliability, but I can’t get myself to buy one. Acura/Honda need to be more competitive with current market trends and offer a hybrid or PHEV version of the RDX then it’d be a serious contender in this segment!

[@elCART3L]

That base looking X3 looks average at best. Should have compared the next trim up with the A-Spec to the M sport package. I know the price difference, but they always compare the wrong trims with Acura which the Acura will be the better value for your money.

[@lanceripplinger8352]

Always a good day when Nathan is doing reviews! Both of those vehicles look very nice. I think I would prefer the more quiet ride of the BMW. Both vehicles seem to have nice powertrains. 😀😀

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

Both good powertrains, but the BMW will get 33 mpg where the RDX gets 23mpg. I’ve had both and the RDX gets much worse mileage while offering no additional performance. I’d like my X4 back please!

[@danielmelendez9943]

I own a 2011 MdX with SH-AWD, while it is a gas guzzler, it can haul ass and put a smile on your face with 300HP under the hood. Can you say that tour BWM will last that ling with basic maintenance ans 105k miles? I think i can easily get another 50k miles out of my car.. not sure if i can say that out a BMW! Already i am considering my next car and I am already looking at the RDX Advance package!

[@billseiler4952]

Acura needs the touch display from the Civic and give customers a discount

[@jsfbay1]

Acura RDX is technically classified as a compact SUV... As is the X3 I think...

[@smithjones1906]

I just had a X2 for a rental car for a few days. I wasn't impressed by the xDrive, so maybe it's not the same on all models. The thing was capable of sustained front wheelspin (when the roads were slippery). It also had really bad wheelhop at one point which very much surprised me.

[@dazzlingd]

X2 is front wheel drive biased, based on the Mini. X3 is rear wheel drive biased, based on the 5 series.

[@smithjones1906]

@@dazzlingd Ah, so just like Audi's vehicles with transversely-mounted engines have "quattro" vs their vehicles with longitudinally-mounted engines have quattro. I'm glad to hear xDrive is better with the rear-biased vehicles.

[@doomsday9973]

@@smithjones1906 actually the X3 is based on the 3 series platform. The X5 is based on the 5 series

[@matty1053]

@@dazzlingd No it's not lol. X3 is based off the 3 series, not the 5 series. X5 is based off 5 series... why do you think they have X1,X2,X3,X4,X5,X6,X7? Based off of 1s,2s,3s,4s,5s,6s,7s.

[@aloysiussnuffleupagus9360]

I just bought that RDX yesterday!

[@trevorroth7054]

Great rides, and love your side by side reviews

[@PratapShinde]

I m in the market for a new car. I have a Jag FPace and it's lease is getting over. I really like that RDX. I am gonna check it out this weekend. Thank you for your review.

[@justinwehland]

After multiple test drives in this segment, if I was shopping luxury sporty and crossover I would grab the Mazda cx5 Signature 250hp/310tq. Has 90% of what these vehicles have, reliability in Mazda has been climbing while acura/honda has been falling. Save about 10k with the signature Mazda cx5 at 40k. I actually enjoyed the drive of the cx5 better than the RDX. Never drove the gv70 or the x3 with a 4 cylinder but we did get into the x3 m40i with the 6, that is a completely different beast.

[@rahimi4762]

No SHAWD or that leather

[@justinwehland]

@@rahimi4762 its latest generation the awd is pretty solid. Not SH-AWD but most people shopping this category will never know. The napa leather in the cx5 is perfectly fine too, seats are ten times more comfortable than the ventilated BMW seats. BMW ventilated seats are terrible (I own one). I think Mazdas new cx-70 like the cx60 will be the vehicle to beat.

[@joellarrysr9977]

you can get rear heating on the X3, just check a box. I'm not sure why they removed the levers to drop the seats, it used to be there.

[@hingsunhome]

In terms of engine reliability, I would trust Honda / Acura more since BMW I4 Turbo is well known for its rod bearing issues. For driving dynamics, of course BMW, but at least please go for an inline 6 engine which is historically known to be much more reliable than the I4.

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

Other than the guaranteed oil leaks on the in-line 6 that start at about 60,000 miles and are expensive to repair.

[@hingsunhome]

@@razorsedgeadventures6599 , got full 7 yrs extended warranty, will change to a new ride every 6.75 yrs, so it will be the dealer's problem, not mine.

[@rmlmrnda]

Thanks ​@@hingsunhome. Will the rod bearing issues be covered by the warranty?

[@hingsunhome]

@@rmlmrnda , Within the first 4 years, yes.

[@rmlmrnda]

@@hingsunhome should be enough time for a trade in 😂

[@Doriana806]

Great review, and you really surprised me at the end! 👍

[@PinkasHaKatan]

The biggest issue with the new Acura models is the AC. I had the 2019 RDX for 2.5 years and now own the 2022 MDX. The AC is just not strong enough on hot days 90F+ and will barely blow cold air. I hoped that the MDX will have a better AC so I gave Acura another chance but its not. In CA summer it's just not strong enough I'm thinking about changing the car only because of it.

[@88hemoglobin]

Yeah, Hondas and Acuras have weak ACs :(

[@sspringss2727]

I been to differ my tlx, ilx and civics say otherwise. Especially in the civic...i have to turn up the dial because it becomes an icicle so quick. My tlx was just as good but required a bit more air... understandable because it was feeding front and rear passengers.

[@88hemoglobin]

@@sspringss2727 that’s nice but my Honda Accord and Acura RDX AC seem to struggle when it’s quite hot out.

[@sspringss2727]

@@88hemoglobin where do you live? i live in Florida... do you have th ac actually on? Some ppl have made the mistake and thought because cool air was coming through the vents... that the actual ac was on when in fact it was not.

[@88hemoglobin]

@@sspringss2727 I’m in nyc. Lol um yes I have the ac on when I actually think it’s on…..

[@SparklesDClown]

According to the Acura configuration/build online tool, The A-Spec package DOES NOT include any suspension upgrades (13:45). It's cosmetic centric, and includes 20" tires along with the Technology package for upgraded ELS stereo system with Navigation. The Advance package however, includes Dynamic Rear Dampening suspension.

[@kingmiller1982]

Very dumb on acura part to configure it that way.

[@RKO859]

RDX and X3 are compact SUVs, not mid-sized. X5, GLE, Q8 would be something considered mid-sized.

[@connorh3421]

I have a new TLX and the track pad is not hard to use at all. I personally love the idea that there is no touchscreen just because of how dirty it can and will get.

[@JDSJC]

Proud owner of Acura Rdx 2020 Platinum Elite with tow set mags because do not like the original mags on the platinum elite is grey and this mags is bored. With my new mag black my platinumElite is wonderful and i have show on my glass indication color is great with adaptable suspension is great.

[@tomfaz4193]

I am seriously considering purchasing the RDX but what I need to get over is that it needs premium fuel which is around a dollar more than regular. I have a problem making big oil even richer.

[@mj8495]

Not required, but will give you more HP

[@MIZUNOMP60]

Nice comparison review Nathan, the old thing I'd question is the Acura's cargo space with the rear seats folded. 79.8 cu/ft pops up with an internet search, but 58.9 cu/ft is mentioned too. The 2022 Pathfinder is a class bigger and is listed at 80.5 cu/ft max cargo space. I'd imagine the total cargo space is close to the 60 cu/ft than 80 cu/ft which is getting close to Pathfinder/Telluride numbers with the seats folded but I could be wrong!

[@hamerplayer1229]

Genesis GV70 Loaded out like an RDX is 65K. I sat in it at the dealer and it felt tiny inside. I am 6 foot with fairly wide shoulders and I felt cramped. The GV70 is absolutely beautiful but very small. RDX is amazing but the track pad sucks. Great that it has wireless charging but I need a touch screen. The vehicle search continues

[@EatMyPropwash]

I was in the exact same boat as you brotha. 6ft, broad shoulders. Try the X3. I ended up buying the M40i version of the X3 loaded up because it looks sexy, handles like a dream especially for an SUV, digital dash, touch screen, etc…. I love it.

[@kristians2704]

the fully loaded GV70 has a V6 with about 100hp more than the RDX, it's interior is also much nicer than the Acura

[@moloono1]

@@kristians2704 It’s still a Hyundai 🤮

[@kristians2704]

@@moloono1 no it’s a Genesis. And who cares about the brand anyway?

[@moloono1]

@@kristians2704 Surprisingly, a lot of people. Probably why Genesis only sold a little over 16,000 vehicles in 2021.

[@RE-ue6oz]

Thanks, I am cross shopping these two cars for a daily commuter. I have owned a previous gen RDX, and a BMW 335 before, but not an X3. My only real complaint with my RDX was ride quality could be hard over bumps.

[@mhumble1969]

I traded my RDX c X3, couldn’t be happier. My X3 makes me smile due to driving dynamics. I’d rather have the i7 than the touch pad too. And gas mileage is better c X3.

[@Audioholics]

Genesis GV70 is impossible to get, has no reliability ratings since it's a first year model. BMW is a time tested proven platform you can custom order and buildni. 8 weeks. I went with the X3 for my wife.

[@les2997]

Consumer reports gave the GV70 a 30/100 for reliability. Genesis also assumes a very rapid depreciation for the vehicle, likely because of perceived reliability issues.

[@matty1053]

@@les2997 My neighbor has a GV70, he drives 80 miles round trip to work at a powerplant near me... He got it in November 2021, and has put 26k miles on it already and has has no issues. He used to have a BMW X4 (I know, not a direct comparison however X3 and X4 use same chassis.), and had nothing but issues after 20k miles. You can't beat Germans on quality and refinement he said, but the Genesis feels right on par with it. His only complaint with the Genesis is no adaptive headlights (side to side) and no fog lights. Other than that he loves it.

[@penvon]

@@matty1053 26k miles in 2 months?

[@Audioholics]

@@matty1053 at 80 miles/day, would take almost a year to reach 26k miles, not 2 months. Very fishy story.

[@Shift4g]

@@les2997 Are Hyundai's back to being unreliable now or something? They've been near Japan for almost a decade now.

[@ss021070]

Picked up my RDX and am loving it, as much as the BMW is nice, the maintenance cost and insurance price put the BMW out of my comfort zone.

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

Interesting! BMW pays for all the routine Maint items for the first 3 years, has just as good a warrentee, gets 30% better highway mileage, and, for me at least, is basically the same to insure as my 19 BMW X4. If I hadn’t dumped $2000 into the RDX for clear wrap to protect the fragile paint from rock chips, the 22 RDX would be sitting on a BMW dealership used car lot with 3,000 miles on it, especially now with $5/gal fuel.

[@AgonxOC]

Interesting how people who comment about BMW maintenance more than likely have never owned a BMW.

[@taelorwatson9822]

The problem is is that the Genesis might not make it to 100,000 miles without an engine swap. And Genesis might not be willing to do that for free

[@rightwingsafetysquad9872]

Do you have any real reason to suspect that? Over the past 10 years Consumer Reports has put Hyundai/Kia right up with Toyota.

[@ro0ster648]

@@rightwingsafetysquad9872 Over the last 10 years Hyundai also lost billions of dollars on engine warranty repairs and billions more for settlement with class action lawsuits on their engines defects and fires. Consumer surveys are full of shit with biased information.

[@taelorwatson9822]

@@rightwingsafetysquad9872 you mean other than all the engines that had to be replaced at the dealerships, customers complaining because Hyundai would not honor their warranties? Only a few rare people who got 100k on their engine which is usually one of the engines built prior to 2011. Nope no proof

[@rightwingsafetysquad9872]

@@ro0ster648 And Toyota killed people with faulty airbags and accelerator peddles. Reliability has to be pegged to a real standard, not some flawless ideal.

[@midiman5045]

You forgot one thing about all these SUV reliability and resale value after say 5 years. Including the genesis.

[@sk-un5jq]

Hell no to any BMW for me! Acura all the way. Better quality and long-term reliability for sure.

[@chadforce2068]

I like the video but I don’t agree with the comments about the Genesis at the end. Go to a used car lot and look at Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis which are all from the same company. They will not hold up and still look good compared to the Acura and BMW.

[@williamdrijver4141]

Excellent test. Highly competitive segment.

[@PeteLenz]

My X3 was a great car. But like all BMWs everything will fail starting at 80k miles. I’d only ever lease one again

[@roguedogx]

6:19 I still maintain with some minor tweaks that thing could work. just a variable texture (like a grid with lines in both directions that get further apart the further you go from the upper right hand of the pad) so you know where your finger is without looking, and a selection feeling that isn't so janky.

[@cynthiaarrowsmith5709]

Definitely buy the Acura and lease the BMW.

[@Silverback_GMT410]

Before it was an issue having an engine cover, now its wanted...

[@chrisjames483]

Funny you think the gv70 is better. Drove both and bought the same RDX exactly that you reviewed. The 2.5, and that is what I'm comparing to, was not that exciting. The interior is just completely different. In terms of the cabin. To each his own. It's good to have choices. And the resale on Genesis is poor. In the end I felt the rdx was more engaging.

[@mattrenick8797]

These are the exact two vehicles I cross shopped for my latest purchase. Acura’s infotainment is subpar, and BMW’s overall refinement is top notch. In the end, I chose the BMW. I was actually able to score a better deal on the X3 as well. Cherry on top.

[@AFCompany]

That is one thing I’ve noticed. Acura really doesn’t budge much on price. They also have some of the most expensive leasing. I guess they know someone else is right around the corner waiting to buy it. I mean I guess they have the best selling CUV and best selling 3 row luxury suv of all time for a reason.

[@vincentmcclain9307]

I drove GV70 it was a nice car sat down at the sale desk and in 15 minutes the 45k advance I wanted was told I probably will never be able to get rather the sport advantage 2.5 t out the door was 58k Went to a second dealer sport advantage 2.5 62,200 if you really want a GV70 sit back and wait for A lightly used repo.Found a spotless Mercedes’ GLC300 4 matic 2022 with 11k on the OD at a dealer for 43000. You can find them all day. there got you a superior auto in a garbage business market at a great price.

[@macpherson162]

Gotta get the M40I version if you're going X3

[@sbrown6434]

The Genesis will be a junker in 100,000 miles. The Acura will just be getting started.

[@colinbny]

Acura easily do 300k with oil change and maintenance

[@sbrown6434]

@@colinbny amen! RDX is bulletproof

[@dsteffen71611]

Apparently you’re behind in reliability ratings.

[@vsrap71]

That or crashed by tiger woods

[@kristians2704]

and the GV70 beats the RDX in every other aspect

[@jojaysta]

Acura overstates RDX mpg figures, which was my experience, as with many others. 19-20 combined on avg, not 24.

[@rahulp2288]

Yeah I get about 20 on my 2020 RDX Aspec was disappointed.. still love the car though

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

Agreed! But I don’t really understand why they have to. My 2019 BMW X4 with 2 liter turbo would get 31-33 mpg at 75 mph on the highway. My new RDX Technology gets about 21 on the same roads at the same speed! The only disappointing aspect of the car for me, but it’s a big disappointment when they advertise 27 highway mpg. Can’t Honda/Acura, economy cars from day one, match BMW, performance cars from day one, for fuel economy?

[@rahulp2288]

@@razorsedgeadventures6599 and we're thinking about adding the new MDX advance soon.. so I'm not sure if it has the same issue

[@razorsedgeadventures6599]

@@rahulp2288 I don’t know, since they don’t share the same drive train.

[@jeffsena9140]

I have a 2021 BMW X3 X drive 30i and love it. Yes, $51,500 MSRP but with BMW and BMW Car Club discounts $47,500. Also Nathan did not mention three years of free maintenance is included. Fingerprint on touchscreen are easily removed with screen cleaner and the I drive control allows almost total infotainment control without touching the screen. Comparison kind of unfair A spec vs base X3. Want sportier get the M package, want more power get the X40i!

[@avinashseri1499]

RDX Tech Pack SH-AWD is the best value for money vehicle

[@fleshrocker]

Just drove both and bought the bmw Monday. Drove better for me, but the difference was the tech, display, and hvac interface. Much, much better. Acura was a cranky dinosaur.

[@Lebowski5000]

It’s unfortunate the X3 doesn’t have fog lights as an option for this generation.

[@lucasperuzzo5098]

The LED headlight for the X3 are advanced enough that you don’t actually need fog lights. It will illuminate the road just as good or even better than if you had regular headlights with fogs.

[@maortizjr80]

I was going to ask about the GV70... Glad you brought it up.

[@hmmmhali]

SIR! I was between these two and then you mentioned the genesis GV70 ! I want it so bad but hate the stearing wheel! I think i may wait to 2024 and see if they change it so I can get the 2.4 advanced :) for a reasonable price !

[@robertallen5210]

The BMW tires are run-flats. Even though they are smaller in diameter than the Acura, they will ride harder with more noise. Regarding the heads-up-display... can be a nice option to have, however if you have to replace your windshield - $$$$$!!. The HUD requires a different / more expensive windshield.