For many reasons, the Acura RDX is one of our top picks in the luxury compact SUV segment. It's a well-made and well-equipped SUV that is a clear, premium step up from mainstream compact SUVs such as the Honda CR-V. Its value is undeniable and a must-drive for buyers who value smart engineering and style equally.
PROS Strong acceleration and fuel economy from standard V6 engine Elevated rear seat provides generous legroom and a commanding view More features than competitors at a similar or much lower price Generous cargo capacity for the segment
CONS Cabin lacks overtly luxurious look and feel High-tech safety features and adaptive cruise control don't work as well as some rival systems Technology interface can be distracting to use
The 2018 Acura RDX ranked #1 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Acura RDX has a score of 8.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 53 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Spacious, adult-friendly seats in both rows Convenient cargo area Refined, competent V6 engine
Cons Complicated, confusing infotainment systems Fewer available amenities than some rivals No engine or performance upgrades available
The 2017 Infiniti QX50 puts handling atop the SUV priority list, but that's not as wrong as it sounds.The Infiniti QX50 has been around, in one form or the other, for a decade. It's still here thanks to strong fundamentals: there are bits and pieces of Q50s and 370Zs under its skin, and that gives it an engaging feel that's still head and shoulders above some its its key rivals. It returns for its 10th model year in just two forms, as the rear-drive QX50 or as the all-wheel-drive QX50 AWD.
Pros Sport-sedan handling Shape's still sleek A richly appointed cabin Supportive front seats Finally, a more usable back seat
Cons Cargo space behind the second row is small Engine noise No paddle shift controls Even with surround-view cameras, visibility isn't great
The 2017 Infiniti QX50 ranks 10 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. The 2017 Infiniti QX50 has a powerful V6 engine, handles more like an agile car than an SUV, and has one of the lowest base prices in the class. Many class rivals have better mpg ratings and more cargo space, however, and the QX50's design is getting a little stale, both inside and out.
Pros Powerful engine Low starting price Agile handling
Cons Poor fuel economy Subpar cargo space Aging design
With the 2017 Infiniti QX50, you get a driving experience that's more sport sedan than sport-utility. But the QX50 falls behind in other areas that are likely more important for a luxury crossover SUV. The QX50's optional 19-inch wheels are now available separately for 2017.
Pros Powerful standard V6 engine Responsive handling more akin to a sport sedan than a sport-utility.
Cons Limited cargo space That standard V6 engine is pretty thirsty All-or-nothing option packages mean you'll probably pay for things you don't want Dated interior controls.
