2025 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2025 Acura RDX
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and 2025 Acura RDX compete in different price ranges, attracting buyers looking for capability, tech features, and confident handling. The Crosstrek leans into rugged versatility while the RDX offers more upscale finishes and a premium price tag.
Even with the gap in MSRP, many drivers compare these two models to determine which SUV truly delivers the best balance of value, efficiency, and performance. This comparison examines how each vehicle performs across design, technology, powertrain, and daily usability.
Design & Style
The 2025 Crosstrek keeps a bold, athletic stance with black body cladding, sharp grille lines, and LED headlights that work well in any lighting. Its compact footprint still provides strong road presence and high ground clearance. Inside, the Crosstrek offers practical materials, user-friendly layouts, and supportive seating for comfort on long drives.
The 2025 Acura RDX features a wider, more sculpted body with aggressive angles and chrome accents that lean into a luxury aesthetic. The RDX interior uses premium trim and bold design choices, but the layout can feel more complex during quick interactions behind the wheel.
Technology & Safety
In terms of in-cabin tech and safety systems, both vehicles deliver solid features for modern driving. The 2025 Crosstrek includes a vertical touchscreen with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and a clear, responsive interface. EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and pre-collision braking with reliable accuracy in daily traffic.
The Acura RDX uses a wide, touchpad-controlled display with premium audio options and an available head-up display. AcuraWatch™ provides similar safety tools, but the interface demands more learning time. Crosstrek drivers enjoy quicker access to key functions and more predictable system behavior.
Performance
The 2025 Crosstrek comes with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and offers a choice between a 2.0-liter or available 2.5-liter BOXER engine. This setup creates balanced weight distribution, smooth power delivery, and reliable traction in a range of conditions. The suspension absorbs rough pavement while maintaining crisp handling.
The Acura RDX runs on a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It delivers strong highway power and refined shifts, but the front-wheel-drive base layout limits capability until drivers opt for higher trims with all-wheel drive. Crosstrek drivers benefit from consistent all-wheel-drive traction right from the start.
The Bottom Line
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and 2025 Acura RDX serve different customer needs, but both offer key features for active lifestyles. The RDX provides luxury-focused design and solid acceleration, but drivers pay more for upgrades and advanced features. The Crosstrek delivers better value, all-weather traction, and smart utility without overcomplicating the experience. For buyers who need dependable performance, real-world fuel efficiency, and a cabin built for everyday driving, one model brings more consistency across the board without requiring premium pricing.
Schedule a Test Drive Today
See how this compact SUV fits your needs on the road. Schedule a test drive today to explore capability, comfort, and control in every mile. Get a closer look at the tech, handling, and utility that make this SUV a smart choice for daily driving and weekend travel.
