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Acura RDX vs Toyota Highlander - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (272 HP vs 265 HP), trunk space and price (44,700 $ vs 39,300 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Acura RDX or Toyota Highlander?

Acura RDX vs Toyota Highlander: Key differences

Acura RDX

  • only slightly more power
  • only slightly lighter

Toyota Highlander

  • slightly cheaper
  • substantially more efficient

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Highlander

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Toyota Highlander is slightly cheaper – starting at 39,300 $ , while the Acura RDX costs 44,700 $ . That’s a price difference of around 5,430 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander performs substantially better – achieving 36 mpg, compared to 21 mpg for the Acura RDX. That’s a difference of about 15 mpg.

Highlander

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Acura RDX offers only slightly more power – delivering 272 HP compared to 265 HP. That’s roughly 7 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Toyota Highlander delivers very slightly more torque with 310 lb-ft compared to 280 lb-ft. That’s about 30 lb-ft more.

Highlander

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Seats: Toyota Highlander offers more seats – 8 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Acura RDX is only slightly lighter – 4,014 lbs compared to 4,155 lbs. The difference is around 141 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Toyota Highlander holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $39,300
Highlander

Toyota Highlander

  • Engine Type : Gasoline, Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel, All Wheel
  • Power HP : 243 - 265 HP
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Acura RDX

The Acura RDX blends crisp handling with a plush, tech-rich cabin that makes the daily grind feel a bit more first class. It’s not the flashiest in the lineup, but its honest athleticism, generous features, and rock-solid value make it a smart pick for drivers who like their luxury with a practical streak.

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Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a trusty family hauler that blends calm road manners with a thoughtfully finished cabin and a bonus row for occasional adults. It won’t set your hair on fire, but with a refined hybrid option, easy-to-use tech, and resale strength that makes rivals sweat, it’s the sensible choice that still feels a bit special.

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Acura RDX
Toyota Highlander

Costs and Consumption
Price
44,700 - 54,500 $
Price
39,300 - 53,400 $
FuelEconomy City
21 mpg
FuelEconomy City
21 - 36 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 - 27 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
17.1 gal
Fuel tank capacity
17.1 - 17.9 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SH-AWD
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
7 - 8
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
4,014 - 4,058 lbs
Curb weight
4,155 - 4,595 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
187.4 in.
Length
194.9 - 197.4 in.
Width
74.8 in.
Width
76 in.
Height
65 in.
Height
68 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline, Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Power HP
272 HP
Power HP
243 - 265 HP
Torque
280 lb-ft
Torque
175 - 310 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2 L
Engine Displacement
2.4 - 2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Acura
Brand
Toyota
What is the price of the Acura RDX?

The Acura RDX starts at 44,700 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.