It’s easy to see why the Acura RDX and the BMW X3 are beloved vehicles. Thanks to their outstanding performance, luxurious interior seating, and features that go a long way toward helping keep everyone safe, these are models that drivers should consider.
Which SUV should you choose for your travels around Memphis, TN?
The team at Acura of Memphis has created this comprehensive comparison discussing the important features of the Acura RDX vs. the BMW X3 to help you decide. Read on!
TRANSMISSION
FRONT LEGROOM
PASSENGER CAPACITY
Ready to make a wave on the highway with pure power and capability? These SUVs are powered by impressive engines that will have you flying down the road in no time. The question is: Which SUV is more powerful?
Experience pure power with the Acura RDX. The standard 2.0L turbo aluminum-alloy 4-cylinder engine boasts 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque—a powerful ride that can shake the pavement and is a thrill to drive on the highway. It’s also a great vehicle to handle city streets and is as nimble as it is powerful.
The base engine on the X3 is an efficient 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. However, it doesn’t provide the same kind of kick as the RDX, clocking in at just 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Another convenient feature in the RDX is the Sequential SportShift paddle shifters, which pair with the responsive and driver-friendly 10-speed automatic transmission. These paddle shifters are located on the steering wheel, allowing you to take control and shift when you want.
A similar feature comes standard in the X3 as well, but it’s offered with an 8-speed automatic transmission instead.
We typically spend a lot of time inside our cars, so we may as well be comfortable, right? Both the RDX and the X3 offer plenty of interior features and comfort amenities. Which model outclasses the other, though?
When it comes to stretching out your legs, the Acura RDX will prove to be the better choice for drivers and front-row passengers. Up front, the Acura provides 42 inches of front legroom compared to the 40.3 inches of front legroom in the BMW. With more wiggle room in the Acura, the 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat will really feel like your throne.
For those passengers riding in the back row, the RDX checks in at 38 inches of rear legroom, while the X3 has 36.4 inches of rear legroom. You’ll certainly feel the difference during those longer drives, as it’s easier to stretch out in the RDX.
The spaciousness of the Acura and the BMW continues. Both models have large trunks to accommodate your golf clubs, resort gear, or grocery hauls. However, the RDX slightly edges out the X3 with 31.1 cubic feet of trunk space, compared to BMW’s 28.7 cubic feet.
When you fold down the second row in both SUVs, you gain more room for larger adventure gear like coolers or kayak oars. Home improvement supplies will fit, too! Which SUV will your longer items fit better in? We’d bet on the Acura, which offers a maximum cargo capacity of 79.8 cubic feet. The BMW taps out at 62.7 cubic feet.
Whether you're driving familiar roads that you know like the back of your hand or exploring new destinations, safety is always a priority. SUVs are known for being safe vehicles, and the Acura RDX and the BMW X3 are just two examples.
When it comes to safety, the Acura and the BMW do it right. They install standard driving aids to boost your confidence, such as:
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Blind Spot Information System
- Forward Collision Warning System
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
Only the RDX comes standard with Traffic Sign Recognition. This smart feature monitors roadways constantly for any road signage. Any signs captured will then be displayed on the multi-information display or the available 10.5-inch Head-Up Display.
Beyond driver assistance, the Acura RDX has another way to keep you confidently on course: standard Super Handling All-Wheel Driveâ„¢. This drivetrain puts all the wheels in action simultaneously, delivering a smooth, stable ride. When the roads are slick and a loss of traction takes place, this drivetrain will automatically transmit power where needed.
The BMW X3 comes standard with sDrive, but xDrive (its version of all-wheel drive) is available.
By now, it’s probably easy to picture yourself behind the wheel of either luxury SUV. Both the Acura RDX and the BMW X3 can handle the roads of Memphis, TN in style.
Thanks to its powerful performance, comfortable interior amenities, and strong safety technology, the Acura RDX is truly one of the sleekest, most respectable luxury SUVs available.
Test drive the RDX at Acura of Memphis today!
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