Two of the best choices in small SUVs
If you’re shopping for a small SUV, chances are that the Honda CR-V is on your radar. The CR-V is efficient, well-priced, and well-equipped for anyone in need of a small SUV but doesn’t care for luxurious touches. Don’t get us wrong, the Honda CR-V has plenty of fine features, but it’s not a luxury car. However, for less than $45,000, you can get a fully loaded CR-V, which comes with amenities like a thrifty hybrid powertrain, AWD, and interior features like heated seats, a Bose sound system, and a large infotainment screen.
Additionally, the CR-V has a surprisingly upscale interior and smooth ride quality, but if you want real luxury, the Acura RDX is the way to go. The RDX starts at around $45,000, which is more than a top-trim CR-V, but that extra cash gets you a far more premium package. The RDX has a striking exterior look, a premium-feeling (and looking) interior, and a potent turbocharged engine. Also, both SUVs share the same platform and have similar tech and safety features, but that’s where the similarities end.
Honda
Ultimately, if you favor practicality and efficiency, the CR-V is a good choice, but if you want the finer things in life, the RDX is the way to go. However, it’s not that simple in everyone’s case, so we found five key differences between these two vehicles to help you decide which one is a better choice.
Acura
Powertrain: Turbocharged muscle vs. everyday efficiency
The 2025 Acura RDX packs a force-fed punch with its turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers a healthy 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It also comes with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which actively distributes power to improve cornering and traction. In contrast, the Honda CR-V is built more for efficiency. Under its hood is a smaller, turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, which is sufficient for daily errands but not nearly as quick off the line as the RDX.
Honda
Fuel economy: Luxury thirst or pump-friendly sips?
As for fuel efficiency, the EPA estimates that the RDX can get up to 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which isn’t bad, but it could be better for a small SUV. On the other side of the coin, the CR-V’s hybrid setup prioritizes fuel efficiency, with EPA-estimated 43 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway in front-wheel drive form. Opting for all-wheel drive drops those ratings to 40 mpg and 34 mpg, respectively. The non-hybrid version can achieve up to around 28 to 30 mpg, which proves that the CR-V pulls ahead when it comes to fuel economy.
Acura
Interior features: Premium touches or everyday comfort
Sit inside the Acura RDX and you will be greeted by a cabin designed to impress. The RDX comes standard with sport seats with leatherette trim, dual-zone climate control, and a 10.2-inch infotainment display, all wrapped in a premium, driver-focused design. The CR-V, on the other hand, has a more utilitarian design, although its higher trim levels come with niceties like leather seating and a Bose premium audio system. However, the Acura RDX clearly has the edge when it comes to interior refinement, noise insulation, and an overall luxurious feel.
Cargo space: A sleek design could trump maximum cargo space
Although the Acura RDX is a little larger on the outside, the Honda CR-V makes better use of its space on the inside. The CR-V boasts up to 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, while the RDX’s space tops out at 58.9 cubic feet. Passengers will also have more overall interior volume in the Honda. That said, the RDX prioritizes styling, sound insulation, and a sportier profile. However, if you need to haul gear, groceries, or family luggage, the CR-V proves to be a little more practical.
Honda
Price and value: Is the Acura worth the premium upgrade?
Price is always an important factor when shopping for a new vehicle, and these two SUVs differ slightly when it comes to cost. The 2025 Honda CR-V starts at $30,100, which makes it a great value in the compact SUV segment. The 2025 Acura RDX starts closer to $45,000, which reflects its luxury badge, increased performance, and premium features. Of course, picking the top-trim CR-V Hybrid can put you well over the $40,000 mark, and opting for the top-trim RDX can put you well over $50,000, so it comes down to what you value. The CR-V offers more SUV for less money, while the RDX gives you a more upscale driving experience if you can afford the premium price tag.
Acura
Final thoughts
Ultimately, the 2025 Acura RDX and 2025 Honda CR-V appeal to two very different buyers. The CR-V makes sense if you want a reliable, fuel-efficient crossover with loads of cargo space and a price that won’t lighten your wallet too much. Meanwhile, the RDX is for drivers who crave more performance, a more prestigious cabin, and the type of recognition that comes with Acura’s premium badge. Either way, both of these SUVs deliver on Honda’s reputation for quality and reliability, so the right choice depends on what your daily needs and wants are.