RDX vs X4
If you’re shopping for a car in the compact luxury suv class, the RDX and the X4 are likely both on your shortlist. Lay the spec sheets side by side and you’ll see more overlap than contrast.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance RDX wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance4.4
- Engine & Performance3.1
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 24 hp more power
The RDX is slightly stronger on total system output. The gap, 272 hp versus 248 hp, won’t change your life, but it isn’t nothing. The RDX’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
-
The RDX has 22 lb-ft more torque
If everything else were equal, this small edge would favor the RDX: 280 lb-ft against 258 lb-ft. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
RDX leads
The engine & performance numbers point firmly in one direction: toward the RDX. The RDX takes this one with 24 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. Anyone shopping mainly on engine & performance should start with the RDX.
Total system output
RDX: 272 hp X4: 248 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Torque
RDX: 280 lb-ft X4: 258 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
The RDX and the X4 match each other closely in this area. The takeaway: space & practicality is not where these two differ.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Swap one for the other and you’d lose nothing on off-road & towing. So off-road & towing is a non-factor here; move on to the areas where they actually differ.
Safety & Tech
There isn’t a number to compare on safety & tech, just names. Look at the rows below to see how the RDX and the X4 differ.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | RDX | X4 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.0L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 272 hp (winner) | 248 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft (winner) | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | N/A (not specified) | AWD (xDrive) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | RDX | X4 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 24 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 21 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 27 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | RDX | X4 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | X4 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | RDX | X4 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“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 248 hp)
- you want more pulling power from low speeds (280 lb-ft vs 258 lb-ft of torque)
- you already know your way around Acura’s products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the RDX or the X4?
On the specs compared here, the RDX makes more sense for most buyers; the X4 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Let’s set the logos aside for a minute. The RDX and the X4 are close competitors, and their spec sheets tell an interesting story. The RDX wins me over with 24 hp more power.
Who should get which? The RDX for engine & performance, the X4 for the things a spec sheet can’t capture.
My pick: the RDX.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.