1st Gen RDX ride/feel vs Lexus NX
#1
1st Gen RDX ride/feel vs Lexus NX
hi all,
first time poster, long time lurker.
im in the market for a new SUV and have narrowed it down to the 2018 Lexus NX and the 2018 RDX Elite. Before you say I’m in the wrong forum, here’s my question: I test drove the 2G RDX and it felt...safe. I’m looking for something with a stiffer suspension and a bit more zip, like the 1G. I test drove the NX twice now, but our weather is absolute crap at the moment and it’s just been non-stop snow and bad traffic and I feel like I can’t quite get the true sense of it’s handling on a nice quiet winding road in the summer.
Anyone out there have a decent amount of driving time under their belt in both the 1G RDX and the NX? Any comparisons you can make for me would be appreciated.
first time poster, long time lurker.
im in the market for a new SUV and have narrowed it down to the 2018 Lexus NX and the 2018 RDX Elite. Before you say I’m in the wrong forum, here’s my question: I test drove the 2G RDX and it felt...safe. I’m looking for something with a stiffer suspension and a bit more zip, like the 1G. I test drove the NX twice now, but our weather is absolute crap at the moment and it’s just been non-stop snow and bad traffic and I feel like I can’t quite get the true sense of it’s handling on a nice quiet winding road in the summer.
Anyone out there have a decent amount of driving time under their belt in both the 1G RDX and the NX? Any comparisons you can make for me would be appreciated.
#2
mrgold35
Is there a big aftermarket support for the NX for engine, brakes, and suspension mods?
A few of us long-term 1st Gen RDX owners can't leave well enough alone and end up doing some aftermarket mods to power, brakes, lighting, tires, and/or suspension. The 07 RDX had the "sportiest" suspension set-up and it got a touch softer every year after that. There are enough aftermarket mods for the 1st Gen RDX to increase the performance envelop for everything except the for the 5AT. What I like about my 08 RDX is the sporty suspension and good old hydraulic power steering because I really get some very good feedback from the road when driving. I feel like I'm part of the RDX instead of being isolated like like I'm just riding in the vehicle like other luxury brands. Unfortunately, what us long-term owners loved about the 1st Gen RDX is what most other folks hated and that is why the 2nd Gen RDX is softer, more isolated driving experience, has a V-6 engine, and slip-n-grip awd. The 1st Gen RDX doesn't feel right on the road unless you are using it as a hammer and everything you see are nails. I imagine the NX and 3rd Gen RDX will have a few more tools in its toolbox compared to only a hammer for the 1st Gen and Gerber multi-tool (does a lot of things OK) for the 2nd Gen RDX.
The 3rd Gen RDX with the all new 2.0L turbo+10AT+sh-awd is suppose to come out with an A-Spec version down the road. No details of what or when; but, it could have a sporty body add ons, A-Spec interior accents and lights, and electronic damper shocks/struts like the sh-sh-awd hybrid MDX. We haven't confirmed if the 3rd Gen RDX Elite/Adv will even have electronic dampers shocks/struts yet.
A few of us long-term 1st Gen RDX owners can't leave well enough alone and end up doing some aftermarket mods to power, brakes, lighting, tires, and/or suspension. The 07 RDX had the "sportiest" suspension set-up and it got a touch softer every year after that. There are enough aftermarket mods for the 1st Gen RDX to increase the performance envelop for everything except the for the 5AT. What I like about my 08 RDX is the sporty suspension and good old hydraulic power steering because I really get some very good feedback from the road when driving. I feel like I'm part of the RDX instead of being isolated like like I'm just riding in the vehicle like other luxury brands. Unfortunately, what us long-term owners loved about the 1st Gen RDX is what most other folks hated and that is why the 2nd Gen RDX is softer, more isolated driving experience, has a V-6 engine, and slip-n-grip awd. The 1st Gen RDX doesn't feel right on the road unless you are using it as a hammer and everything you see are nails. I imagine the NX and 3rd Gen RDX will have a few more tools in its toolbox compared to only a hammer for the 1st Gen and Gerber multi-tool (does a lot of things OK) for the 2nd Gen RDX.
The 3rd Gen RDX with the all new 2.0L turbo+10AT+sh-awd is suppose to come out with an A-Spec version down the road. No details of what or when; but, it could have a sporty body add ons, A-Spec interior accents and lights, and electronic damper shocks/struts like the sh-sh-awd hybrid MDX. We haven't confirmed if the 3rd Gen RDX Elite/Adv will even have electronic dampers shocks/struts yet.
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justnspace (01-29-2018)
#4
That was plan A, but unfortunately circumstances require me to get a new ride right away, not in 6 months.
That will probably be next after this lease is up, whatever I choose.
![Frown](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif)
#5
Moderator
iTrader: (1)
maybe you can get a beater in the mean time...
it's really not wise to rush a car purchase.
like you said; you have NO clue how the NX drives during warmer dry periods...
Wouldnt you kick yourself in the behind if you went with the "safer" option of the RDX?
plus, every one is different and will have varying degrees of comfort...ie; if they drove the NX and decided it wasn't for them, thus choosing the 2nd gen RDX..
your very best option is to test drive the vehicles for yourself to figure out which car is the right one for you.
it's really not wise to rush a car purchase.
like you said; you have NO clue how the NX drives during warmer dry periods...
Wouldnt you kick yourself in the behind if you went with the "safer" option of the RDX?
plus, every one is different and will have varying degrees of comfort...ie; if they drove the NX and decided it wasn't for them, thus choosing the 2nd gen RDX..
your very best option is to test drive the vehicles for yourself to figure out which car is the right one for you.
#6
maybe you can get a beater in the mean time...
it's really not wise to rush a car purchase.
like you said; you have NO clue how the NX drives during warmer dry periods...
Wouldnt you kick yourself in the behind if you went with the "safer" option of the RDX?
plus, every one is different and will have varying degrees of comfort...ie; if they drove the NX and decided it wasn't for them, thus choosing the 2nd gen RDX..
your very best option is to test drive the vehicles for yourself to figure out which car is the right one for you.
it's really not wise to rush a car purchase.
like you said; you have NO clue how the NX drives during warmer dry periods...
Wouldnt you kick yourself in the behind if you went with the "safer" option of the RDX?
plus, every one is different and will have varying degrees of comfort...ie; if they drove the NX and decided it wasn't for them, thus choosing the 2nd gen RDX..
your very best option is to test drive the vehicles for yourself to figure out which car is the right one for you.
So my options are this:
a) Lease the 2018 RDX Elite, upgrade it to the (likely) 2021 3G RDX once my lease is up.
b) Lease the Lexus NX, which seems to be closer in line to what I like in a vehicle (turbo-4, more sport tuned, etc.).
I figure if I'm spending the money, I might as well go with what brings me more joy on a daily basis.
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#8
I think I do, too. It's still snowy and slippery as hell out here on the Canadian Prairies, but I'm going to take what I think is my final choice for another drive today.
#9
mrgold35
Acura usually has little technical issues with the 1st model years. The 3rd Gen RDX will have:
- a new turbo engine
- 10AT mated to sh-awd
- new frame and body
- brand spanking new tech and dash design not tested long term.
I would lean towards the NX and keep a watch for the 3rd Gen RDX A-Spec or 3rd Gen RDX MMC in 2021. Acura vehicles usually start to get more reliable after the 1st model year and are pretty solid after the MMC.
- a new turbo engine
- 10AT mated to sh-awd
- new frame and body
- brand spanking new tech and dash design not tested long term.
I would lean towards the NX and keep a watch for the 3rd Gen RDX A-Spec or 3rd Gen RDX MMC in 2021. Acura vehicles usually start to get more reliable after the 1st model year and are pretty solid after the MMC.
Last edited by mrgold35; 01-29-2018 at 10:59 AM.
#10
Acura usually has little technical issues with the 1st model years. The 3rd Gen RDX will have:
- a new turbo engine
- 10AT mated to sh-awd
- new frame and body
- brand spanking new tech and dash design not tested long term.
I would lean towards the NX and keep a watch for the 3rd Gen RDX A-Spec or 3rd Gen RDX MMC in 2021. Acura vehicles usually start to get more reliable after the 1st model year and are pretty solid after the MMC.
- a new turbo engine
- 10AT mated to sh-awd
- new frame and body
- brand spanking new tech and dash design not tested long term.
I would lean towards the NX and keep a watch for the 3rd Gen RDX A-Spec or 3rd Gen RDX MMC in 2021. Acura vehicles usually start to get more reliable after the 1st model year and are pretty solid after the MMC.
#12
When you mentioned snow I had a feeling you were in Canada, I’m from Edmonton, not sure where you’re from. But if your weather has been anything like it has here then you need to wait till the roads clear and take it on a real drive. The current conditions do not allow for a good drive. My opinion is go get the NX because the 2G RDX is terrible in the handling department. Feels like you’re driving a boat and my understanding is that the NX handles much more tight and offers a lot more features as well in F-sport trim. But I admit to not driving the NX before. Alternatively go take a look at the Jaguar F-pace, gorgeous looks and RWD based so handle very well. They start at like 50K but you can get one with decent options for a bit more keeping in mind the NX goes up to about 60k iirc.
#13
#14
When you mentioned snow I had a feeling you were in Canada, I’m from Edmonton, not sure where you’re from. But if your weather has been anything like it has here then you need to wait till the roads clear and take it on a real drive. The current conditions do not allow for a good drive. My opinion is go get the NX because the 2G RDX is terrible in the handling department. Feels like you’re driving a boat and my understanding is that the NX handles much more tight and offers a lot more features as well in F-sport trim. But I admit to not driving the NX before. Alternatively go take a look at the Jaguar F-pace, gorgeous looks and RWD based so handle very well. They start at like 50K but you can get one with decent options for a bit more keeping in mind the NX goes up to about 60k iirc.
Also from Edmonton. Cheers to terrible road conditions - haha.
#16
Haha I had a feeling! When you mentioned summer time driving the first thing that came to mind was groat road! My 2007 RDX chewed up and spit out groat road like it was nothing! My advice is to take the NX onto groat road on a dryer day (hopefully we get some warmer dryer weather soon) and then let us know how it is. But IMO you can’t possibly do worse than the 2G RDX. Cheers to the terrible conditions, but they do make it very fun!
#17
mrgold35
F-Pace=pure love!
I'm going to have to compared a used F-Pace S Model or R-Sport compared to a new 3rd Gen RDX Adv/A-spec to see which one give me the most bang for the buck.
Last edited by mrgold35; 01-30-2018 at 07:36 AM.
#18
It seemed Acura placed the 13-15 RDX on the back burner until the MMC? I think they were waiting until all other vehicles in the line-up caught up with the newer exterior, LED lights, and beak design. I think Acura also didn't want to steal any thunder away from the TLX or MDX until they established a foot hold. I think Acura was surprised sales jumped compared to the 1st Gen RDX and they were fine with making money for +3 years until the MMC.
F-Pace=pure love!
I'm going to have to compared a used F-Pace S Model or R-Sport compared to a new 3rd Gen RDX Adv/A-spec to see which one give me the most bang for the buck.
F-Pace=pure love!
I'm going to have to compared a used F-Pace S Model or R-Sport compared to a new 3rd Gen RDX Adv/A-spec to see which one give me the most bang for the buck.
#20
#21
Is there a big aftermarket support for the NX for engine, brakes, and suspension mods?
A few of us long-term 1st Gen RDX owners can't leave well enough alone and end up doing some aftermarket mods to power, brakes, lighting, tires, and/or suspension. The 07 RDX had the "sportiest" suspension set-up and it got a touch softer every year after that. There are enough aftermarket mods for the 1st Gen RDX to increase the performance envelop for everything except the for the 5AT. What I like about my 08 RDX is the sporty suspension and good old hydraulic power steering because I really get some very good feedback from the road when driving. I feel like I'm part of the RDX instead of being isolated like like I'm just riding in the vehicle like other luxury brands. Unfortunately, what us long-term owners loved about the 1st Gen RDX is what most other folks hated and that is why the 2nd Gen RDX is softer, more isolated driving experience, has a V-6 engine, and slip-n-grip awd. The 1st Gen RDX doesn't feel right on the road unless you are using it as a hammer and everything you see are nails. I imagine the NX and 3rd Gen RDX will have a few more tools in its toolbox compared to only a hammer for the 1st Gen and Gerber multi-tool (does a lot of things OK) for the 2nd Gen RDX.
The 3rd Gen RDX with the all new 2.0L turbo+10AT+sh-awd is suppose to come out with an A-Spec version down the road. No details of what or when; but, it could have a sporty body add ons, A-Spec interior accents and lights, and electronic damper shocks/struts like the sh-sh-awd hybrid MDX. We haven't confirmed if the 3rd Gen RDX Elite/Adv will even have electronic dampers shocks/struts yet.
A few of us long-term 1st Gen RDX owners can't leave well enough alone and end up doing some aftermarket mods to power, brakes, lighting, tires, and/or suspension. The 07 RDX had the "sportiest" suspension set-up and it got a touch softer every year after that. There are enough aftermarket mods for the 1st Gen RDX to increase the performance envelop for everything except the for the 5AT. What I like about my 08 RDX is the sporty suspension and good old hydraulic power steering because I really get some very good feedback from the road when driving. I feel like I'm part of the RDX instead of being isolated like like I'm just riding in the vehicle like other luxury brands. Unfortunately, what us long-term owners loved about the 1st Gen RDX is what most other folks hated and that is why the 2nd Gen RDX is softer, more isolated driving experience, has a V-6 engine, and slip-n-grip awd. The 1st Gen RDX doesn't feel right on the road unless you are using it as a hammer and everything you see are nails. I imagine the NX and 3rd Gen RDX will have a few more tools in its toolbox compared to only a hammer for the 1st Gen and Gerber multi-tool (does a lot of things OK) for the 2nd Gen RDX.
The 3rd Gen RDX with the all new 2.0L turbo+10AT+sh-awd is suppose to come out with an A-Spec version down the road. No details of what or when; but, it could have a sporty body add ons, A-Spec interior accents and lights, and electronic damper shocks/struts like the sh-sh-awd hybrid MDX. We haven't confirmed if the 3rd Gen RDX Elite/Adv will even have electronic dampers shocks/struts yet.
#22
mrgold35
I’ve read the A-spec will be available at launch this summer. I also have a 2008 RDX which replaced my 1996 Intégra - both bought new. I have it detailed every year and people can’t believe how old it is. I love it for the same reasons you do. If it doesn’t shake your kidneys a little it isn’t a car IMHO :-) A 2020 RDX may be in my future. If I had to pick one right now like the OP, I would go with the NX but the new X3 is beautiful and JD Power puts BMW owner satisfaction above Acura. It’s a new model too but has a lot from the 5 series parts bin.
#23
Popping in to update/close this thread - I was able to test drive the NX again on a semi-dry day (RDX10 will know my pain because theres ANOTHER foot of snow on the ground again) and I pulled the trigger. The drive was just so much more engaging than the 2G RDX, as much as I want to love Acura. The lack of SH-AWD plus the boring drive was the nail in the coffin for me on the 2G, so 2018 NX owner I am.
So far, it's great. Counting down the days until summer and giving it a proper test on Groat Road.
![Smile](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
#24
Popping in to update/close this thread - I was able to test drive the NX again on a semi-dry day (RDX10 will know my pain because theres ANOTHER foot of snow on the ground again) and I pulled the trigger. The drive was just so much more engaging than the 2G RDX, as much as I want to love Acura. The lack of SH-AWD plus the boring drive was the nail in the coffin for me on the 2G, so 2018 NX owner I am.
So far, it's great. Counting down the days until summer and giving it a proper test on Groat Road.
![Smile](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
#25
Congratulations man! Post some pics of the new ride (you know, when the weather is not comparable to that of Antarctica!!). What color combo did you go with? I hate to admit it but I love the atomic orange (I think that’s what it is called) color on the NX and that would probably be my pick. This weather absolutely sucks for driving but I can guarantee you that you made the right choice since you’re looking for some decent handling. I despise what Acura did with the 2G RDX and fingers crossed the 3G won’t be like it. Also, for what it’s worth, the AWD system in the NX can at least send 50% of the torque to the rear whereas the RDX can only send 40% and with the terrible weather we’ve had the slightly superior AWD system is much appreciated.
#26
Nice! I like that combo as well. Did you go with the F-sport model? Black rims always looks sweet on a white body, good call! I have no issues driving in this weather, it’s the other drivers that really cause issues for me personally. People throwing themselves in front of me during turns, people stomping on the brakes for literally no reason, it’s just pandemonium with other people on the roads. Looking forward to some pics!
#27
mrgold35
Congrats on the new ride! I'm glad you stayed loyal to the driving experience compared to loyal to a brand. Most of us long-term 1st Gen RDX owners were really trying to figure out our next move if Acura jacked up the 3rd Gen RDX with the same set-up as the 2nd Gen RDX. Hopefully, you get a chance to test drive the 3rd Gen RDX when it hits the road and give us your feedback of NX compared to the RDX.
#28
Congrats on the new ride! I'm glad you stayed loyal to the driving experience compared to loyal to a brand. Most of us long-term 1st Gen RDX owners were really trying to figure out our next move if Acura jacked up the 3rd Gen RDX with the same set-up as the 2nd Gen RDX. Hopefully, you get a chance to test drive the 3rd Gen RDX when it hits the road and give us your feedback of NX compared to the RDX.
#29
mrgold35
Mentally I’m sold on picking up a CPO 3G RDX in 3-4 years hopefully but I’m trying not to get too excited without driving it first and seeing the production model. There is also the Jag F-Pace which I am sure is going to depreciate like a ton of bricks by 3-4 years so we’ll have to see at that time. I’m just very happy to have so many awesome viable choices.
- new +2020 RDX A-Spec or Adv, new or slightly used 1-2 years down the road IF I can get the right color combo AND aftermarket support comes back
- used +2017 hybrid MDX sh-sh-awd in 2-3 years from now (don't like the 9AT in the reg MDX)
- used +2018 F-Pace S model in 2-3 years from now
#30
I'm thinking I will be leaning the same way. I figure an brand new 2019-2021 A-Spec or Adv RDX will will be +$45,000. I purchased my used 11 Adv/Ent MDX back in 2014 for less money compared to a new 2014 RDX awd Tech. The MDX was the cheaper AND better choice for me compared to the new 14 RDX. My top choices in the $45,000 range are:
- new +2020 RDX A-Spec or Adv, new or slightly used 1-2 years down the road IF I can get the right color combo AND aftermarket support comes back
- used +2017 hybrid MDX sh-sh-awd in 2-3 years from now (don't like the 9AT in the reg MDX)
- used +2018 F-Pace S model in 2-3 years from now
- new +2020 RDX A-Spec or Adv, new or slightly used 1-2 years down the road IF I can get the right color combo AND aftermarket support comes back
- used +2017 hybrid MDX sh-sh-awd in 2-3 years from now (don't like the 9AT in the reg MDX)
- used +2018 F-Pace S model in 2-3 years from now
I have yet to get any seat time in a F-pace but many reviewers seem to note that it can feel a little cheap and it is lacking some more modern luxury touches, however it has a solid drivetrain and the best exhaust note in an SUV. My dream garage consists of a F-Pace and F-Type.
Based on what I seen of the RDX prototype it looks like it will be a good compromise between sport and luxury. It appears to have some really nice quality touches and the technology while not at the cutting edge, is still very very competitive with the best out there. What color choice were you thinking of? Since they have yet to explain interior options (and not holding my breath on a red leather interior option) I am hoping for san-marino red on beige.
A bit of a dark horse third choice for me would be the Alfa Romeo stelvio with that absolutely stunning 2.9TT engine or even the normal 2.0t (0-60 in 5.4s!!!). It is a lot like the F-pace with 50:50 weight distribution, RWD-based, and nice proportions. But that rear end is too bulbous and more importantly reliability will have to be proven....this is very iffy.
Last edited by RDX10; 02-05-2018 at 02:37 PM.
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