2019 rdx: 55k miles $29k one owner CPO. Advanced package fwd. Newer design and better infotainment system/ driver assistance 2020 mdx: 48k miles $31k one owner CPO. Tech package shawd. Bigger vehicle obviously.

 

I’d haggle both of those prices down a bit. SHawd or AWD is my default for a suv. Makes its handle so much better, in all conditions. But, it really matters which one fits your needs best.

 

Neither?

I would have voted RDX because that MDX is long in the tooth and I hated the dated interior on that generation, but I’d never buy a FWD-only car. Especially not an RDX since SH-AWD is half the fun.

 

As an owner, the MDX is an awesome car. Yes, interior is not updated and doesn’t look wow. But it’s extremely practical, drives well and smooth V6

of course, test drive both vehicles and make sure you’re 100% comfortable before writing the cheque. Don’t take anyone’s opinion read the messages and make the final decision based on your liking and comfort level.

 

As an owner of a 2023 RDX (and also a 2011 MDX)....
I would take the last year of a generation vs the first year all day. Not to mention AWD >>> FWD.

 

Two different cars, all depends on personal preference and budget.

 

What do you plan to do with either vehicle? Commuter duties, X-country hauler, need 6-7 passenger space a few times a year, light/heavy towing (bikes, cargo carrier, light camper or camping duties, etc...), need all weather capabilities, growing family, concerned about combined mpgs, full size spare, etc... I would test drive both vehicles back-to-back to get a feel for them in similar driving situations.

I was ready to update my 08 RDX with a +19 RDX back in 2019. I love the updates and having the 3rd Gen RDX getting back to turbo power and sh-awd. The 19 RDX had similar mpgs, no option for a full size spare, and noticeable road noise issue as my 08 RDX. Did a test drive of the 19 MDX Adv Sport Hybrid just for fun and it was an instant sell and it checked all my boxes. The 3rd Gen RDX looks better, has updated tech, and very sporty CUV. The 3rd Gen MDX interior isn't the best; but, extremely functional. Granted, I would have updated to 3rd Gen RDX (instead of an RLX Sport Hybrid) or 4th Gen MDX IF they had a Sport Hybrid option.

 

I would not get a first model year of a new generation of any car and the RDX is no different.. Too many issues…

 

If I may provide counterpoint and in no way wish to offend anyone’s buying decision, I purposely ordered a FWD RDX because I did NOT want AWD. Yes, the SH-AWD handles better when driven enthusiastically. No question about that. But at 7/10s or less, it is not meaningfully better. With 250 fewer pounds and the same firm suspension, the FWD RDX can still negotiate entrance and exits ramps at high speeds with ease. For me, I don’t drive my RDX like a sports car. The center of gravity is too high to be genuinely playful. Most of my car’s time is spent putt-putting through town from traffic light to traffic light or, it is spent at 75-80 mph on the highway. Without question, the FWD RDX is a wonderful highway car. My FWD averages 28 mpg mixed and will consistently get 30-32 mpg highway at 75-80 mph on flat road. With 250 fewer pounds, and none of the parasitic loss associated with spinning the drive shaft, clutch packs, rear differential and rear half shafts, (same components that hurt the SH-AWD’s fuel economy) the FWD RDX may even accelerate slightly faster on the highway, if that matters. I would not dismiss the FWD RDX merely because it lacks the SH-AWD system. It is still a wonderful car.

To me, I’d rather have the MDX’s V6 engine. MUCH better power delivery. The MDX is one year newer, has fewer miles, has SH-AWD and the better engine for a few thousand more. That would be my preference between these two choices.

 

The MDX will likely be much more reliable. If buying new today, I would pick one or the other based on size. But given a choice between a proven MDX and the first year RDX (which we know has been problematic for many from transmission to infotainment issues), I would pick the MDX.