Honda CR-V Vs. Acura RDX: Which Should You Buy?
Many compact SUV shoppers compare the Honda CR-V vs. Acura RDX when searching for a right-sized and feature-rich new model to drive home. Both of these vehicles have a spacious two-row interior, turbocharged performance, and impressive fuel efficiency, all wrapped up in a handsome exterior and tech-packed cabin.
But which SUV is a better fit for you? We compare the 2025 Acura RDX vs. 2025 Honda CR-V in key areas, like fuel efficiency, cargo space, exterior and interior features, pricing, and more, so you can select your favorite and schedule a test drive.
See our summary of these similarly sized SUVs below and why we think the Honda CR-V may offer better value overall.
2025 Acura RDX vs. 2025 Honda CR-V at a Glance
- The Honda CR-V boasts better fuel efficiency than the Acura RDX and is the only model offering an available hybrid powertrain.
- The Acura RDX only comes with AWD, while the Honda CR-V gives drivers a choice of AWD or FWD.
- The CR-V features 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind its second row; the RDX only provides up to 31.1 cubic feet.
We compare these crossover SUVs in greater detail below:
 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L |  2025 Acura RDX | |
| Engine | 1.5L I-4 turbo | 2.0L I-4 turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 | 272 |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD avail) | AWD |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | Up to 28 / 341 | 21 / 272 |
| 0-60 Time | 8.1 s3 | 6.4 s4 |
| Top Speed | 130 mph3 | 112 mph (electronically limited) |
| Fuel Tank Size | 14 gal | 17.1 gal |
| Length | 184.8 in | 187.4 in |
| Width | 73.5 in | 74.8 in |
| Height | 66.2 in | 65.7 in |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Curb Weight | 3,525 lbs | 4,014 lbs |
| Cargo Space (Seats Up / Down) | 39.3 / 76.5 cu ft | 31.1 / 79.8 cu ft |
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| NHTSA Overall Safety Rating | 5 stars6 | 5 stars6 |
| 2025 Honda CR-V | Used Acura RDX |
Configurations and Pricing
Before we continue delving into the specifics of these SUVs, like their features, performance specs, and dimensions, let's look at the available trim levels and how pricing compares.
The 2025 Honda CR-V comes in three gas-powered trim levels – the LX, EX, and EX-L. The Honda CR-V Hybrid variant adds another three options: the Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid.
The 2025 Acura RDX comes in five trims total, all using the same turbocharged gas engine. The RDX trims are the base model, Technology Package, A-Spec Package, Advance Package, and A-Spec Advance Package.
As for pricing, even though these two sport-utes have some similarities, the Honda CR-V is the more accessible option by a long shot. In fact, even the highest trim levels in this Honda SUV model's lineup – the gas-powered EX-L and electrified Sport Touring Hybrid trim – are well under the starting MSRP for the 2025 Acura RDX base iteration. That's not even considering our highly competitive Honda specials.
There's no comparison when it comes to affordability, but let's look at other aspects and see if the Acura SUV can catch up to the CR-V.
Engine and Specs
Both the Honda CR-V and Acura RDX are powered by turbocharged engines, but one focuses more on maximum fuel efficiency while the other adds more power at the expense of gas mileage.
The 2025 CR-V features a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and connected to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). CR-V shoppers can choose from a front-wheel-drive configuration or opt for available all-wheel drive (AWD).
Gas mileage in the new 2025 Honda CR-V reaches an EPA-estimated 28/34 MPG (City/Highway)1 rating. That's impressive fuel efficiency, and the CR-V Hybrid models take gas mileage even higher.
The 2025 Acura RDX features a larger turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower, and is coupled to a 10-speed automatic transmission. AWD comes standard on this Acura SUV, so there's no choice for drivers there.
EPA-estimated gas mileage for the 2025 Acura RDX is up to 21/27 MPG (City/Highway),2 which falls far behind the impeccable efficiency of the CR-V. The RDX family of two-row SUVs does not have a hybrid powertrain option, so the above EPA-estimated rating is the best you can hope for in this model.
Interior and Technology
Inside their five-seater interiors, you'll notice plenty of differences when comparing these models' standard and available equipment. The Honda CR-V comes with cloth seating surfaces or available leather-trimmed seats. A 7-inch touchscreen is equipped on the entry-level grade, although a larger 9-inch display is offered on upper trims. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ keep you entertained on every version of this SUV; wireless smartphone integration and wireless device charging are also available.
Like the new Honda CR-V, the RDX also comes standard with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Its entry-level model has leatherette seats and dual-zone climate control.
Size and Dimensions
These similarly sized sport utility vehicles are close in exterior measurements, with the Acura RDX a little longer and wider than the Honda CR-V. However, inside is a different story, as the Honda model is actually the more spacious option.
With 106 cubic feet of passenger space for up to five occupants plus 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, the 2025 CR-V boasts a brilliantly packaged interior, maximizing room in every cabin area.
The passenger volume and cargo space in the 2025 RDX are lacking and a little smaller compared to the roomier CR-V. The Acura SUV presents 104 cubic feet of space for up to five passengers in the cabin, with only 31.1 cubic feet available in the rear cargo hold.
Safety and Reliability
You can feel safe and secure in a new Honda CR-V for sale thanks to a comprehensive collection of active, passive, and driver-assistive safety systems built into this advanced SUV.
Honda Sensing driver-assistive systems and accompanying safety technologies offered include:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Road Departure Mitigation System
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Forward Collision Warning
- Lane Departure Warning
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition System
- Driver Attention Monitor
- Rear Seat Reminder
- Parking Sensors (front and rear)
The RDX gets AcuraWatch, a similar suite of tech that keeps you aware and confident on the road:
- Lane Departure Warning System
- Forward Collision Warning System
- Road Departure Mitigation System
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
With these thoughtful and innovative safety features on board, perhaps it's no wonder that both models have earned a five-star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA.6
Regarding reliability, both of these SUVs have an impressive track record of dependability. Still, you might find maintenance and repair costs on an Acura RDX to be higher than those of its more affordable competitor, the Honda CR-V.
Shop and Compare the CR-V at Phil Hughes Honda
The Honda CR-V certainly holds its own against the Acura RDX. But what about other competitors? See our comparison of the Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V to learn more about the benefits of this Honda vehicle.
Or, see our review of the Honda CR-V vs. Hyundai Tucson and appreciate the CR-V SUV's airy and refined interior. You can uncover more by contacting or visiting Phil Hughes Honda.
Customer Reviews On The Honda CR-V:
1Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
2Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
3This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/honda/cr-v
4This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/acura/rdx
5Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit www.nhtsa.gov
