2 Reasons to Pick the 2023 Acura RDX Over the BMW X3
In the luxury compact SUV segment, the 2023 Acura RDX stands above the 2023 BMW X3 with its lower starting price and more powerful engine. If only these metrics matter to you, then the RDX represents a fine choice. However, both vehicles have considerably more to offer.
The 2023 Acura RDX price and specs
The entry-level 2023 Acura RDX comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) and a $41,750 MSRP. The all-wheel drive (AWD) RDX starts at $43,950 MSRP. That makes the 2023 Acura RDX about $5,000 less expensive than the 2023 BMW X3 models with similar drivetrains.
While both vehicles use turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, the Acura makes more horsepower and torque. The 2023 Acura RDX uses a mono-scroll turbocharger on its aluminum-alloy 2.0-liter four-cylinder to produce 272 hp at 6500 rpm. The RDX engine also delivers 280 lb-ft of torque between 1600 and 4500 rpm.
The 2023 BMW X3 price and specs
The 2023 BMW X3 sDrive30i with FWD starts at $46,900, and the AWD xDrive30i version carries an MSRP starting at $48,900. The X3 employs a single turbocharger with twin-scrolls to coax 248 horsepower from 5,200 to 6,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 1,450 and 4,800 rpm from its 2.0-liter four-cylinder. So, while the BMW is less powerful, it delivers peak power over a broader rpm range.
Is the X3 worth the price increase over the RDX?
U.S. News placed the 2023 BMW X3 ahead of the 2023 Acura RDX in its luxury compact SUV comparison. In the review, both vehicles received negative comments for sub-par interior luxury in a segment known for its luxe accommodations. Additionally, reviewers found the BMW X3 and the Acura RDX capable, spacious, and fun to drive.
The most significant source of reviewer frustration came from the Acura’s “distracting infotainment touchpad.” Navigating through the infotainment system’s menus and functions using the center-mounted trackpad similar to those found on laptop computers, especially while driving, caused the most headaches for reviewers. On the plus side, the Acura RDX includes the following features:
- A 10.2-inch infotainment display
- Amazon Alexa
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- Bluetooth
- Nine-speaker stereo system
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Panoramic roof
- Synthetic leather upholstery
- 12-way power-adjustable front sport seats with heat
The 2023 Acura RDX standard driver assistance safety features include:
- Forward collision warning
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Road departure mitigation
- Lane-departure warning
- Lane-keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Pedestrian detection
- Rear cross-traffic alert
On the other hand, U.S. News praised the BMW X3’s “straightforward infotainment system.” However, its superior handling and ride quality are the X3’s most significant advantages over the Acura RDX. Other standard 2023 BMW X3 features include the following:
- Synthetic leather upholstery
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 10.25-inch touchscreen
- 12-speaker audio system
- HD Radio
- Bluetooth
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Push button start
Standard 2023 BMW X3 driver assist safety features include:
- Rearview camera
- Forward collision warning
- Pedestrian detection
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-departure warning
While the more powerful 2023 Acura RDX costs less than the 2023 BMW X3, the BMW’s refined ride, user-friendly infotainment system, and slightly more comfortable interior increase its value. Additionally, although the X3 provides less power, its broader power range offsets the deficit, making it less noticeable when driving. Ultimately, the decision between the two likely rests with a test drive unless the X3’s higher MSRP puts it out of range.
