If your priorities for your next luxury SUV involve thrilling performance, a roomy cabin, and the finest infotainment features, the 2026 Acura RDX is an easy choice. Of course, the premium compact SUV class has several strong players, including the BMW X3. But as Acura of Sherman Oaks will demonstrate, even this sport utility falls short of the RDX in key categories.
Power and Performance
Both the Acura and BMW brands are renowned for engineering top-performing vehicles. When comparing the Acura RDX and BMW X3 head-to-head, the new Acura has the edge. For starters, its 2.0-liter VTEC® turbocharged engine achieves 272 horsepower - 17 horsepower more than the equivalent engine in the BMW X3. Additionally, the RDX features four distinct driving modes and a 10-speed automatic transmission, making its powertrain more sophisticated than the one in the BMW X3, which relies on an eight-speed gearbox and three drive modes.
Cabin
Interior space and comfort are other areas where the 2026 Acura RDX shines. Max cargo volume for the RDX far exceeds that of the BMW X3: 79.8 cubic feet vs. just 67.1 cubic feet. Also, the Acura RDX boasts almost two additional inches of front legroom - 42.0 inches vs. 40.2 inches. Acura ingenuity is found in the rear cargo area too, with intelligent underfloor storage that's accessible regardless of how the 60/40-split rear seats are configured.
Infotainment
In the category of infotainment, the 2026 Acura RDX trumps the BMW X3. Take, for example, the available ELS® Studio 3D Premium Audio System for the RDX. Featuring 16 speakers - including four in the headliner - you'll need to hear it at our Sherman Oaks Acura dealership to believe it. Meanwhile, the upgraded sound system in the BMW X3 falls a speaker short. The RDX also boasts high-end tech such as wireless smartphone compatibility and the proprietary True Touchpad Interface™, which establishes an intuitive connection between the driver and the 10.2-inch HD touchscreen.
Test Drive the 2026 Acura RDX Near Los Angeles, CA
The luxury compact SUV segment is highly competitive, with plenty of appealing choices. But the 2026 Acura RDX sets itself apart with a winning combination of power and performance, a spacious cabin, and high-end infotainment tech. Get pre-approved for Acura financing online, and visit Acura of Sherman Oaks to experience this acclaimed automobile today!
