RDX vs Macan
The RDX and the Macan sit in the same compact luxury suv class, but Acura and Porsche don’t always agree on what matters most. Expect a close race. The RDX and the Macan trade small edges rather than knockout blows.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Macan wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance4.4
- Engine & Performance4.2
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 Macan has 15 lb-ft more torque
Close, but not identical: the Macan lists 295 lb-ft and the RDX lists 280 lb-ft. The Macan’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Macan leads
The Macan takes engine & performance by a nose. In its favor, the Macan has 15 lb-ft more torque. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type. For engine & performance, the Macan is the one to beat.
Torque
RDX: 280 lb-ft Macan: 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
The RDX and the Macan match each other closely in this area. Either car will serve you equally well on space & practicality.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
There’s little to choose between them when it comes to off-road & towing. In short, off-road & towing is a draw; the decision lies elsewhere.
Safety & Tech
On safety & tech, the useful details are the names in the table: what each one uses, not a figure we can rank.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | RDX | Macan |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.0L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 272 hp | 261 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 7-speed dual-clutch (PDK) |
| Drivetrain | N/A (not specified) | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | RDX | Macan |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 21 mpg Thirstiest in class |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 19 mpg Thirstiest in the city |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 25 mpg Thirstiest on the highway |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | RDX | Macan |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Macan |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | RDX | Macan |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Price
| Spec | RDX | Macan |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | N/A (not specified) | $63,100 Priciest in class |
“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 Macan if…
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (295 lb-ft vs 280 lb-ft of torque)
- you already use other Porsche products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the RDX or the Macan?
On the specs compared here, the Macan makes more sense for most buyers; the RDX doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Here’s my take on Acura’s RDX versus Porsche’s Macan. I keep coming back to one thing: the Macan gets 15 lb-ft more torque.
I think of the RDX as the one for the things a spec sheet can’t capture and the Macan as the one for engine & performance.
My pick: the Macan.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.