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 Toyota Highlander ranks 3 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. With an unmatched list of standard advanced driver assistance features, the 2017 Toyota Highlander is one of the best values in the midsize SUV class. Its interior is high-end and comfortable, and there’s plenty of cargo space.
Pros Lots of standard active safety features Above-average fuel economy Comfortable and quiet on the highway
Cons Dull performance and handling Cramped third-row seat
The Toyota Highlander gets a stronger, more responsive powertrain for 2017, but the main strengths are the ride quality, the cabin refinement, and the space for eight. A somewhat more aggressive look, more power, an improved set of safety features, and a new sportier SE model highlight the changes Toyota is ushering in for its spacious crossover utility vehicle, the 2017 Highlander. The SE joins LE, LE Plus, XLE, Limited, and Limited Platinum models. The Highlander Hybrid is now also available in LE and XLE trims, in addition to the carry-over Limited and Limited Platinum.
Pros Wide range of powertrains Flexible second row Easy third-row access Good connectivity Cabin quality
Cons Design is soemwhat bland Base engine is under powered Somewhat busy dash design Hybrid only delivers if you drive gingerly
For 2017, the Highlander receives a number of significant midcycle changes. The styling has been updated, highlighted by a larger, more pronounced grille and redesigned LED taillights. The V6 engine is new, boasting more power and better fuel economy along with an eight-speed transmission and an automatic stop-start system. New feature content includes the Toyota Safety Sense technology suite, which comes standard on every trim level. There's also a new SE trim level that features uniquely sporty styling elements and a retuned suspension for sharper handling.
Pros Just-right exterior and interior size for many families Standard high-tech safety features Strong V6 engine with improved fuel economy Quiet and compliant ride
Cons Third-row seat isn't as roomy as those of many competitors Touchscreen and other controls may require an extra-long reach Undesirable base four-cylinder engine
