The 2017 Acura RDX ranks 3 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. The 2017 Acura RDX combines good value for the money with a comfortable and fully featured cabin, V6 power, and a smooth ride. This SUV has a long list of standard features and options, which are tied to packages and not trim levels. This means you don’t have to buy the high-end model to get the option you’re coveting most.
Pros Peppy and capable V6 engine Comfortable and quiet cabin Smooth handling
Cons Less sporty than competitors Confusing infotainment system
The 2017 Acura RDX is one of the smoothest, most responsive-driving compact crossover SUVs—even though it prioritizes practicality. Acura may be the underdog today in luxury sedans, yet it's giving shoppers exactly what they want with the 2017 Acura RDX and the larger MDX. That includes strong powertrains, quiet cabins, and impressive safety—as well as just the right amount of versatility and practicality to make it one of the best-balanced picks in the segment, for those who are balancing the usual mix of sometimes-conflicting priorities.
Pros Smooth ride Strong V-6 performance Agile handling Quiet interior
Cons Back seat is a little cramped Rear seats don't fold flat Annoying audio and forward-collision beeps Tinny speakers
If a small, luxury SUV is on your shopping list, you should consider the 2017 Acura RDX. This stylish Acura is one of our favorites thanks to its fuel-efficient, yet powerful V6, comfortable interior and long list of standard features. Read on to find out why the RDX could be a good fit for you.
Pros Strong acceleration and fuel economy from standard V6 engine Elevated rear seat provides generous legroom and a commanding view More features than competitors at a similar or much lower price Generous cargo capacity for the segment.
Cons Technology interface can be distracting to use, especially the optional dual-screen system High-tech safety features and adaptive cruise control don't work as well as some rival systems Cabin lacks overtly luxurious look and feel.
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class ranks 2 out of 5 Luxury Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV offers compact-car-like agility and fuel economy in an upscale package. However, there’s little passenger and storage space – even for a subcompact – and its ride isn't as cushioned as many of its rivals.
Pros Powerful engines Outstanding handling Lavish interior Class-leading reliability score
Cons Poor cargo capacity Small back seats
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is a small, luxury compact 'ute that prioritizes "looks" over "feels," or in other words, it's probably perfect for a lot of shoppers. Mercedes' smallest crossover—if you can call it that—returns this year to challenge our ideas of compact SUVs, performance, and rear seat head room. Offered as a base front-drive GLA250, all-wheel drive GLA250, or top Mercedes-AMG GLA45, the GLA class may follow Mercedes' nomenclature as an SUV, but it's in a class all its own.
Pros Impressive dynamic driving Lots of turbo fun Sporty and small for two Decent fuel economy Great options ...
Cons but they're pricey $60,000 for a subcompact hatch? Cramped rear seat
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality is available for both 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class versions this year. Mercedes says the instrument panel has been mildly redesigned, and the 8-inch display screen is thinner than before. The new AMG Dinamica package adds faux-suede upholstery to the GLA 45's steering wheel and dashboard.
Pros Sporty handling and performance even in the base model AMG GLA 45's long list of available technology and safety features.
Cons Ride quality is firm to the point some might object Road and wind noise is in abundance Automatic transmission can operate awkwardly in stop-and-go situations Less cargo capacity than its rivals.
