2023 Acura RDX vs. 2023 Audi Q5 Comparison – Kelley Blue Book

2023 Acura RDX 

With superb build quality, lots of included features and equipment, and a spacious, comfortable cabin, the 2023 Acura RDX is an impressive compact luxury SUV that deserves a close look. The 2023 RDX starts from $41,550. 

Acura RDX Highlights 

Easy to configure: The 2023 Acura RDX doesn’t bog you down with thousands of potential configurations. Instead, there’s one core trim level with a choice of Technology or Advance packages and the A-Spec sport treatment. The Technology package brings upgraded audio, navigation, and perforated leather seating, while the Advance package (only available on all-wheel drive models) adds heated and ventilated seats, a head-up display, and more. The A-Spec sport treatment includes a Sport Appearance Package, while the A-Spec Advance also gets adaptive damping. 

Super Handling AWD: Front-wheel drive is standard on the RDX, but Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) is available and adds a sporty torque-vectoring system. Acura’s SH-AWD system not only improves handling, but also inclement weather grip and stability. 

Excellent technology: From the standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the available power liftgate, head-up display, and ELS audio system, the 2023 Acura RDX is a tour de force of modern tech and convenience features, both in the standard equipment set and in the options list.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Acura RDX models for sale near you. 

2023 Audi Q5

Refined, posh looks inside and out, Audi’s excellent reputation for quality and construction, and standard AWD help the 2023 Audi Q5 stand out in the highly competitive compact luxury SUV field. The 2023 Q5 starts from $44,200. 

Audi Q5 Highlights 

Strong engines and standard AWD: Like the RDX, the base engine in the Audi Q5 is a potent turbocharged 4-cylinder. Unlike the RDX, the Q5 can also upgrade to an even more powerful 349-horsepower turbocharged V6 in the SQ5 or a plug-in hybrid variant that’s capable of 23 miles in all-electric mode yet still makes 362 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard on all 2023 Q5 models. 

Posh, elegant cabin: Audi is known for its unique ability to make elegant, quality cabins in its luxury vehicles, and the Q5 definitely gets that treatment, with one of the most refined interiors in its class. Standard features include heated front seats, 3-zone climate control, leather upholstery, and front and rear USB ports. 

Premium upgrade paths: While the standard equipment in the Q5 is impressive, the optional upgrades can take it even farther into luxury territory. Some of the most desirable options include the Bang & Olufsen audio system, Audi’s Virtual Cockpit Plus instrument display, heated rear seats, heated and cooled cupholders, and a head-up display. 

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Audi Q5 models for sale near you. 

Similarities 

Both the RDX and the Q5 come with powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, 28 mpg highway ratings, and spacious, comfortable cabins loaded with technology. 

Conclusion 

The 2023 Acura RDX offers great technology and features in base form, while making it easy to choose from a list of available packages and upgrades. The 2023 Audi Q5, on the other hand, offers many more variants, powertrains, and optional extras, but also includes a competitive base package. Which vehicle you prefer may come down to aesthetics or handling preferences, but the Acura RDX is somewhat more affordable than the Q5, especially once you start adding extra features.  

Specifications