Which Honda is the Acura RDX based on?
The Acura RDX is a compact luxury crossover SUV that is based on the Honda CR-V, a popular and well-regarded compact SUV. The RDX shares many of the same underpinnings and components with the CR-V, but it is designed and marketed as a more premium, upscale offering from Honda's luxury division, Acura.
Shared Platform and Powertrain
The Acura RDX is built on the same platform as the Honda CR-V. This means the two vehicles share the same basic chassis, suspension, and other core structural components. 1 The RDX also uses the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is found in the CR-V, though it is tuned to produce more power and torque in the Acura model. 2
Design and Feature Differences
While the RDX and CR-V share a common foundation, Acura has differentiated the RDX through unique exterior styling, a more premium interior, and additional luxury features. The RDX has a more distinctive, angular design compared to the CR-V's more rounded, family-oriented look. 3 Inside, the RDX offers higher-quality materials, more advanced technology, and additional comfort and convenience features that are not found on the CR-V.
Positioning and Pricing
The Acura RDX is positioned as a more upscale and luxurious alternative to the Honda CR-V. It is priced significantly higher than the CR-V, with a starting MSRP around $40,000 compared to the CR-V's starting price of around $25,000. 4 This higher price point allows Acura to offer a more premium driving experience, better performance, and a more sophisticated, feature-rich package.
In summary, the Acura RDX is based on the Honda CR-V, sharing its underlying platform and powertrain, but Acura has differentiated the RDX through unique styling, a more premium interior, and additional luxury features to position it as a compact luxury crossover SUV.
Is Acura just a rebadged Honda?
They are both owned by the same company, however, Honda specializes in delivering a range of mainstream automobiles for customers, while Acura is focused on the production of luxury performance models for SUVs and sedans.
Is the Acura RDX a Honda CR-V?
No, the Acura RDX is not a Honda CR-V; they are distinct vehicles from different segments, although they share a platform. The RDX is the more luxurious and performance-oriented model, while the CR-V is a more budget-friendly and practical option.
This video explains five reasons why you might choose the Acura RDX over the Honda CR-V: 59sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Nov 22, 2023
| Feature | Acura RDX | Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Luxury SUV | Mainstream SUV |
| Price | Higher starting price | More affordable |
| Engine | More powerful turbocharged engine | Less powerful turbocharged or hybrid engine |
| Performance | Faster acceleration and a more premium driving experience | Focus on fuel efficiency, especially in hybrid models |
| Interior | More premium materials and features like heated sport seats and a larger infotainment screen | Roomier interior and more cargo space |
| Drivetrain | Available with a more advanced all-wheel drive system (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive on some models) | Available with a standard all-wheel drive system |
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What is the Honda equivalent of the Acura RDX?
The Honda equivalent to the Acura RDX is the Honda CR-V. While both are compact SUVs built on similar platforms, the RDX is the luxury-oriented version with a more powerful engine, higher-end features, and a premium price point compared to the more value-focused CR-V.
This video compares the Honda CR-V and Acura RDX: 57sNortheast AcuraYouTube · Jul 18, 2025
| Feature | Acura RDX | Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Class | Compact Luxury Crossover SUV | Compact Crossover SUV |
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo 4-Cyl | 1.5L Turbo 4-Cyl |
| Horsepower | 272 hp | 190 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 179 lb-ft |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Hybrid Option | Not available | Available |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) |
| Drivetrain | Standard SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) | Available front-wheel drive or Real-Time All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Economy | Lower (premium gas) | Higher (regular gas) |
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You can watch this video to learn about the similarities and differences between the 2024 Honda CR-V and 2024 Acura RDX: 55sVehicle VisionaryYouTube · Oct 21, 2023
Is the Honda Passport the same as the Acura RDX?
Honda Passport at a Glance. The Acura RDX features a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that provides 18 pound-feet more torque than the Passport engine. With a 6.4-second 0-60 mph acceleration time, the RDX is ever-so-slightly quicker than the Honda Passport.
