Acura RDX vs. Honda CR-V: Same Company, Different Mission

No—the Acura RDX is not the same as the Honda CR-V. While both are compact crossovers from Honda Motor Co., the RDX is Acura’s luxury entry with its own platform tuning, more powerful engine, upscale features, and higher pricing; the CR-V is Honda’s mainstream family SUV focused on value, space, and efficiency. They share corporate DNA and some components, but they target different buyers and drive quite differently.

Positioning and Platform

The Acura RDX sits in the luxury compact SUV class (competing with the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Lexus NX), emphasizing refinement, performance, and premium tech. The Honda CR-V is a top-selling mainstream compact SUV (against the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, and Mazda CX-5), prioritizing practicality, fuel economy, and affordability. Earlier generations of these models were more closely related under Honda’s compact architecture, but today’s RDX is developed on an Acura-tuned light-truck architecture with a longer wheelbase, different suspension tuning, and a distinct powertrain strategy. In short, they are corporate cousins, not twins.

Key Differences at a Glance

The following points summarize how the RDX and CR-V diverge in the areas most shoppers care about, from power and efficiency to features and cost of ownership.

• Segment and price: RDX is a luxury model with a higher starting MSRP (typically mid-$40,000s in the U.S. for recent model years); CR-V is mainstream and starts around the high-$20,000s to low-$30,000s depending on trim and powertrain.
• Powertrains: RDX uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (~272 hp) with a 10-speed automatic; CR-V offers a 1.5-liter turbo (~190 hp) with a CVT or a 2-motor hybrid system (~204 hp combined) with an e-CVT.
• Drivetrains: RDX offers Acura’s SH-AWD with torque vectoring; CR-V’s available Real Time AWD is engineered primarily for traction and efficiency rather than performance handling.
• Driving character: RDX is tuned for stronger acceleration and more engaging handling; CR-V rides comfortably with a focus on quiet, efficiency, and ease of use.
• Fuel economy: CR-V—especially the hybrid—delivers significantly better MPG (hybrids commonly in the 40 MPG city range in FWD trims), while RDX typically averages in the low-20s combined.
• Interior and tech: RDX features upscale materials, a panoramic moonroof (often standard), ELS Studio premium audio, and Acura’s unique touchpad-controlled infotainment; CR-V emphasizes straightforward usability with 7- or 9-inch touchscreens and abundant storage.
• Space: CR-V generally offers more cargo volume; both seat five, but the CR-V’s packaging focuses on family-friendly space and versatility.
• Warranty and ownership: Acura includes a longer basic and powertrain warranty than Honda, reflecting luxury positioning; CR-V typically carries lower maintenance and insurance costs.
• Resale and incentives: Both hold value well; RDX may see luxury incentives at times, while CR-V benefits from high demand and broad availability.

Taken together, these differences show two distinct philosophies: the RDX chases premium performance and amenities, while the CR-V maximizes everyday value and efficiency for families and commuters.

What They Share

Despite their divergent missions, the RDX and CR-V still have common threads thanks to their parent company and similar size class.

• Corporate DNA: Both are built by Honda Motor Co. (Acura is Honda’s luxury division) with a reputation for reliability and safety.
• Layout: Both are two-row, five-passenger, unibody crossovers with FWD as standard and available AWD.
• Safety tech: AcuraWatch (RDX) and Honda Sensing (CR-V) suites include modern driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
• Manufacturing: Both are assembled in North America for the U.S. market; the RDX and CR-V have both been built in Ohio in recent years (production can vary by model year and trim).
• Practicality: Flexible cargo areas, split-folding rear seats, and modest factory towing capacities (often around 1,000–1,500 lb, depending on model, trim, and market) suit everyday needs.

These shared elements reflect Honda’s engineering approach, but the execution in materials, tuning, and feature content separates the Acura-badged RDX from its Honda-branded sibling.

Performance, Efficiency, and Size

Powertrains and MPG

In recent model years (2024–2025 U.S.), the Acura RDX uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine around 272 horsepower paired with a 10-speed automatic, delivering brisk acceleration. The Honda CR-V offers either a 1.5-liter turbo (about 190 hp) or a hybrid setup (about 204 hp combined). The CR-V Hybrid achieves notably higher fuel economy—commonly in the 40 MPG city range for FWD trims—while gas-only CR-Vs land in the high-20s to low-30s combined. The RDX typically returns around the low-20s combined, depending on drivetrain.

Dimensions and Space

Both are compact crossovers, but the RDX rides on a slightly longer wheelbase and is a bit longer overall. The CR-V generally offers more cargo volume behind the second row (and with seats folded) thanks to its packaging focus, whereas the RDX trades some cargo space for luxury trimmings, thicker sound insulation, and performance hardware.

Pricing and Value

Expect the RDX to start in the mid-$40,000s and climb with packages like Technology, A-Spec, and Advance. The CR-V’s lineup typically starts in the high-$20,000s to low-$30,000s, with hybrids commanding a premium but still undercutting the RDX by a wide margin. Real-world transaction prices vary by region, incentives, and inventory—check local dealers for current offers.

Which One Fits You?

Choose the Acura RDX if you want luxury-brand refinement, stronger performance, a longer warranty, and advanced AWD dynamics. Choose the Honda CR-V if you prioritize fuel economy (especially the hybrid), family-friendly space, lower purchase and ownership costs, and straightforward tech. Both are strong picks in their respective segments; the right choice depends on whether you value premium performance or everyday value more.

Summary

The Acura RDX and Honda CR-V are not the same vehicle. They’re corporate cousins aimed at different buyers: RDX is a luxury compact SUV with a powerful turbo engine, premium features, and higher pricing; CR-V is a mainstream compact SUV focused on efficiency, space, and affordability. They share Honda’s reliability ethos and some underlying DNA, but diverge in platform tuning, powertrains, features, and overall mission.

Which Honda is equivalent to the Acura RDX?

CR-V
The Acura vehicle lineup tailors the best of the Honda lineup with luxury and thrills, offering you the following models: RDX (equivalent to CR-V) MDX (equivalent to Pilot) MDX Type S (high-performance midsize three-row SUV)

Are the Honda CR-V and Acura RDX the same?

No, the Acura RDX is not a Honda CR-V. While both are compact SUVs and share some platform components, the RDX is a luxury vehicle produced by Acura, Honda’s luxury division, and the CR-V is a mainstream model from Honda. The RDX offers a more premium experience with a more powerful engine, more advanced technology, and a higher price point. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Brand: The Acura RDX is a product of Acura, Honda’s luxury brand, while the Honda CR-V is a mainstream model from Honda. 
• Platform: Both vehicles are built on the same platform, meaning they share some underlying structural components. 
• Features and Performance: The RDX typically offers more powerful engine options, a more luxurious interior with advanced technology features, and a higher price tag than the CR-V. 
• Target Audience: The CR-V is aimed at a broader, more budget-conscious audience, while the RDX is designed for those seeking a more premium and performance-oriented experience. 

Which Acura is equivalent to the Honda CR-V?

Acura RDX
You have many options when it comes to crossover SUVs. Two models that you should consider are the Acura RDX and the Honda CR-V. Both vehicles are reliable, spacious, and family-friendly.

What vehicle is comparable to an Acura RDX?

The Acura RDX competes in the compact luxury SUV segment against rivals like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Genesis GV70. Other competitors include the Lexus NX, Volvo XC60, and Lincoln Corsair, with the RDX often highlighted for its strong value, technology, and reliability compared to more expensive European rivals. 
Key Competitors

• BMW X3: . Opens in new tabA direct competitor in the luxury compact SUV segment, known for its premium features and sportier driving experience, though often at a higher price point. 
• Audi Q5: . Opens in new tabAnother strong contender from Germany, praised for its style and interior, but with a potentially higher cost compared to the RDX. 
• Mercedes-Benz GLC: . Opens in new tabA well-regarded luxury choice that offers style and performance, placing it in a similar class to the Acura RDX. 
• Genesis GV70: . Opens in new tabA stylish and technology-focused option that represents a strong alternative, especially if a buyer is willing to spend a little more for a premium experience. 
• Lexus NX: . Opens in new tabA Japanese luxury rival, often compared for its reliability and value, and built on similar underpinnings to the Honda CR-V, like the RDX. 
• Volvo XC60: . Opens in new tabKnown for its distinctive style and safety, it’s another option in the compact luxury SUV space. 
• Lincoln Corsair: . Opens in new tabAn American luxury SUV that is also a direct competitor to the RDX in this segment. 

Why Choose the Acura RDX?

• Value: The RDX is often positioned as a value leader, offering a premium experience at a lower cost than many European luxury SUVs. 
• Reliability: Acura models, including the RDX, have a strong reputation for reliability and peace of mind, especially for long-term ownership. 
• Technology & Features: The RDX is known for its advanced technology and high level of standard features, providing excellent equipment for the money. 
• Interior Space: The Acura RDX typically offers more interior space compared to some rivals, making it a practical choice for families.