Audi Q5 vs. Acura RDX

Audi and Acura are two brands known for perfectly blending style with performance. In this comparison, luxury car shoppers near Devon, Malvern, and Phoenixville, PA, will have a front-row seat to the highly anticipated matchup of the Audi Q5 and the Acura RDX. 

Read on to learn about all the features that matter most when considering your next luxury SUV. From cabin amenities and safety features to progressive performance, our Audi Devon team will help you discover which is better suited for your daily drives.

The Q5 pairs an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit with a 14.5-inch MMI® touchscreen for 26.4 panoramic inches of total screen space, plus there’s an available 10.9-inch front-passenger screen. The RDX splits its setup between a 7-inch driver information display and a 10.2-inch center screen, so it doesn’t match up in size and it offers no passenger screen option.

From the moment you enter the Q5 or the RDX, you’ll feel welcomed, as though you’ve gained access to a mobile spa. Still, there are some distinct differences in their standards of luxury. While the Audi Q5 standardly furnishes its interior with leather seating and natural wood inlays, the Acura RDX trims its seats in leatherette and makes wood an available option. Likewise, their standard climate systems differ, with the RDX offering 2-zone control, while the Q5’s 3-zone standard system> ensures the comfort of everyone on board. 

The Acura offers the typical 60/40 split rear seatback that’s helpful when you have longer gear to transport. Meanwhile, the 40/20/40 sliding, split folding rear seat of the Audi provides superior versatility and can fully adjust with your ever-changing passenger-to-cargo ratio. 

In the digital age, today’s drivers require the ability to remain informed, connected, and engaged when on the go. Both models supply wireless smartphone connectivity for clutter-free communications. The Acura RDX equips a 10.2-inch display to access apps, maps, music, messages, etc. Meanwhile, the Audi Q5’s panoramic curved OLED display includes a 14.5-inch MMI touchscreen. Add to that the available 10.9-inch front passenger display, and you’ll have a “digital stage” answering your every need. 

A 10-speaker sound system comes standard in the Audi Q5, compared to nine speakers in the Acura RDX. The RDX also offers a 16-speaker premium system. However, for a fully immersive listening experience akin to enjoying a private concert, choose the Q5’s available 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen® sound system with 3D sound. Audi-ophiles, rejoice!

The Q5’s available adaptive air suspension can raise or lower the vehicle and keep it level when you’re carrying a heavy load or towing. The RDX's adaptive damper system only firms up or softens the ride. Think of it this way: the Q5 adjusts to what you’re doing, while the RDX adjusts to how you want it to feel.

The Q5 and the RDX equip similar 2-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engines that generate over 200 horsepower and are fuel-sipping masters, as indicated by their respective fuel economy: 

• ›
  Audi Q5: EPA-estimated 21 city/29 hwy MPG*
• ›
  Acura RDX: EPA-estimated 21 city/27 hwy MPG

They each provide driving modes to customize your vehicle’s handling by adjusting throttle, suspension, and steering for a smooth ride. Likewise, the Q5 and the RDX come standard with all-wheel drive, helping you forge ahead confidently, regardless of road or weather conditions.   

Power is one thing. What you can do with it is another. When properly equipped, the Audi Q5 tows up to 4,400 pounds compared to the Acura RDX’s 1,500-pound limit, nearly tripling your capability and opening up real possibilities for both work and play. The Q5’s extra towing lets you haul: 

• ›
  Small fishing boat on a trailer 
• ›
  Pair of jet skis  
• ›
  ATV/UTV 
• ›
  Utility trailer loaded with landscaping or home improvement supplies  
  

It’s the difference between hauling a few boxes and hitching up a boat for a long weekend at the lake.