RDX vs X3
In the compact luxury suv class, the RDX and the X3 are natural rivals. Spec for spec, there isn’t much daylight between them, so small details and personal priorities will decide it.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Trade-off
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance4.4
- Engine & Performance4.0
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The RDX has 17 hp more power
A modest but measurable lead goes to the RDX: 272 hp compared with 255 hp. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
-
The X3 has 15 lb-ft more torque
The X3 is slightly stronger on torque. The gap, 295 lb-ft versus 280 lb-ft, won’t change your life, but it isn’t nothing. The X3’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Trade-off
In the engine & performance category, the RDX counts 17 hp more power in its favor, and the X3 answers with 15 lb-ft more torque. So on engine & performance, match the strength to your needs and you’ll choose well.
Total system output
RDX: 272 hp X3: 255 hp The RDX’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Torque
RDX: 280 lb-ft X3: 295 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
On space & practicality, the RDX and the X3 are effectively level. This section won’t settle the choice, so weigh the other areas more heavily.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
If off-road & towing matters most to you, this section won’t make the decision for you: they’re level. For off-road & towing, pick whichever you prefer for other reasons.
Safety & Tech
We don’t score this area directly, because the safety & tech specs are labels rather than measurements. The table shows what each lists.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | RDX | X3 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas (48V mild hybrid) |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.0L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 272 hp (winner) | 255 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | N/A (not specified) | AWD (xDrive) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | RDX | X3 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 29.5 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
| Cargo (seats folded) | 58.9 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | RDX | X3 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | RDX | X3 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Price
| Spec | RDX | X3 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | N/A (not specified) | $49,500 |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the RDX if…
- you want more power (272 hp vs 255 hp)
- you prefer staying with Acura
Choose the X3 if…
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (295 lb-ft vs 280 lb-ft of torque)
- you already know your way around BMW’s products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the RDX or the X3?
The RDX and the X3 split the comparison (performance for the RDX, pulling power for the X3), so pick the strength you’ll use.
Executive Summary
Whenever Acura and BMW go head to head, I learn something about what each one cares about, and the RDX and the X3 are no exception. I think the RDX makes its strongest case with 17 hp more power. To be fair, the X3 has 15 lb-ft more torque, and that’s not nothing.
If you’d rather have strength in performance, go with the RDX. If pulling power is what you’d miss, go with the X3.
My pick: the RDX for anyone focused on performance, the X3 for anyone focused on pulling power.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.